We live in a world of choice. In each moment, we
are presented with the opportunity to choose from an array of options. The
truth is, though, that we do not always make our choices consciously.
Sometimes, instead of choosing what is best for our personal requirements, we
fall in the trap of commercial tricks and purchase a product we do not need.
When we want to make a choice based on facts and objective reasoning
exclusively, we need to methodically analyze and compare each product based on
the criteria that we value. In this essay, I will try to do just that when
choosing between the two most popular types of TV’s – LCD and plasma. When
entering the technical department of any supermarket or a high-tech store, many
people ask themselves whether a LCD TV is better than a plasma TV or vice
versa. To answer this question, we need to compare the two products based on
several relevant technical criteria.
From a layman’s eye, LCD and plasma TVs may look
alike; however, a keen eye will notice the difference between these sets. These
differences permit customers to have a manifold of choices based on their
particular requirements. A plasma display comprises of two glass panels packed
in compartmentalized spaces, with many small plasma cells. Plasma cells are
normally charged to a precise electrical voltage level. On the other hand, an
LCD display is comprised of aqueous crystals that are normally preset between
two panels of glass. Displays are further enhanced by utilizing electricity
voltage on the LCD TV set panel.
As a result of such technical differences, a
conclusion can be drawn that plasma TV sets are better in comparison to LCD TV
sets when it comes to lighting. Also, many users have noted that plasma screens
give an enhanced black color display as compared to LCD screens. In addition, a
plasma TV affords better viewing angles.
Another crucial criterion to consider whenever we
compare two products of everyday use is the pricing range. The price of any TV
set depends on the display diameter and the stylistic configuration of the
device. One may spend up to a million dollars on a TV set that was designed and
custom made exclusively for their interior, and may even be inlaid with
precious stones or a designer label. However, when we aim to compare two
products based on their cost, we need to select two equally-sized, factory-made
for mass consumption products of one or two popular brands, and compare their
prices. An average plasma TV is cheaper than an LCD TV. This is largely due to
the fact that a plasma TV costs less to assemble, thus translating into a lower
price (Fields, Price Comparisons of Viewing). The price criterion once again
speaks in favor of the plasma TV. At the same time, when taking the price factor
into account, we have to understand its changeability. Since LCD TVs are a much
more current technological invention than the plasma TV, there is a high
possibility that the price of LCD products will decrease palpably in the near
future, as technological progress offers us new alternatives.
At the same time, it is logical to assume that
the LCD TV will also have some considerable advantages that help it
successfully compete with the plasma TV on store shelves and in consumers’
households. One such important advantage of the LCD TV would be its lifespan.
LCD TVs have a longer lifespan, as opposed to the plasma TV (Franz, TV
Statistics). It also has superior screen resolution. This would be a decisive
factor to choose LCD over plasma for those consumers who enjoy playing
high-resolution video games on their TVs. However, this would not greatly
matter to an average TV viewer, since a plasma TV perfectly copes with the
other tasks of a regular TV set without any resolution imperfections for the
viewer.
Ultimately, technology matters less when it comes
to obtaining such a popular domestic device as a TV set. After all, it is about
the reliability and safety of the device that every member of your family will
use practically every day. Having compared the two most popular types of TV
sets, I came to the conclusion that there should be no controversy between LCD
TVs and plasma TVs. It is not about which TV set is more worth its cost, or
which is better-selling, but about the purpose for which the TV set is being used.
Notwithstanding the similarities between plasma and LCD TV sets, their
understated differences might be crucial when taking into consideration the
TV’s use, the environment, and location.
Buying the largest, most costly TV set that will
occupy no less than a whole wall in your living room might not be one of the
smartest decisions for a household with children and pets, while it would
perfectly suit a hi-tech apartment of a young business person. Consumers should
remember a couple of basic tips when choosing one type of TV over the other.
For instance, if you want to fit a TV set into a huge space, then a plasma TV
will do better due to the wider viewing angle and the lower price of big sizes.
The debate about which TV set is better is far from over. In the end, the
question lies more in the hands of the consumer. Next time you buy a plasma or
LCD TV set, do not be surprised if your neighbor criticizes your choice.
