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| | | Liquid-crystal display (LCD) televisions are popular for their flat screens, picture clarity and vivid color. Drawbacks include trouble reproducing deep black colors and occasional blurring; however, this is reportedly much less of an issue in many newer models. Size limitations initially were a significant issue, but LCD televisions up to 57 inches now are widely available; however plasma televisions still come in even larger sizes. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Prices have dropped in the past year, and as of November 2007, the typical LCD television costs between $500 to $3,000.
- On the low end, a 27- to 32-inch flat-panel LCD television typically costs $500 to $800. Models in this size range that have received good review include the Vizio VX32L, which sells for about $430 to $630 and the Sharp AQUOS LCD32 43U, which sells for about $700 to $1,000.
- In the mid-range, a 42- to 46-inch flat-panel LCD television typically costs $800 to $1,800, or more for a premium set with extra features. Models in this size range that have received good reviews include the 46-inch Sony KDL-46XBR4; however, at $1,700 to $3,300 or higher, it costs far more than other televisions in the category.
- The Samsung LN-T4061, which sells for about $1,100 to $1,900 also was well-received. A particularly good value in this category is the Westinghouse TX-42F430S, which has 1080p resolution and sells for about $1,100 to $1,300.
- On the high end, a 52-inch and larger flat-panel LCD television typically costs $1,500 to $3,000 and up. Prices can go as high as $11,000 or more. Models in this size range that have received good review include the 52-inch Samsung LN-T5265F, which sells for about $1,900 to $3,200, and the Toshiba 52LX177, which sells for about $2,000 to $4,000.
What should be included: | - The best LCD televisions still lag slightly behind the best plasma televisions -- the other popular type of flat-screen HDTV -- in reviews, so you might want to compare the two before making a purchase. CrutchfieldAdvisor.com provides an overview of the pros and cons of each.
Additional costs: | - A wall mount can add as much as several hundred dollars to the final price.
Shopping for an lcd tv: | - Make your purchase future-proof by choosing a television with an HDMI or a DVI/HDCP connection. CNet.com offers more tips in its HDTV buying guide.
- Price your preferred models online at reputable websites such as Amazon.com or Costco.com. If you decide to purchase a television online, check the manufacturer's website to see if the vendor is an authorized dealer so you can be sure the manufacturer will honor the warranty. Also, check the vendor's return policy.
- But, if easy returns and hassle-free purchasing are a priority for you, consider buying your television at a local store such as Circuit City, Best Buy or Sears.
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Article updated November 2007 |
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Recent Posts |
| Amount: $1,900.00 |
Looking forward to finally going HD with Samsung LN52A650
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| Posted by: finally-goin-HD in San Jose, CA. | Purchased: January, 2009 |
| Brand: Samsung | Model: LN52A650 |
| Size in Inches: 52 | Store: Amazon |
| I did a bunch of research and finally settled on the Samsung models -- which look awesome at stores and which Consumer Reports raves about for the best image (including super-black blacks and a great contrast ratio). I was a little unsure about buying from Amazon (fears of difficult, expensive returns), but a few friends have bought from them and had good experiences, and it saves $200-$300 over big box stores (plus, you sort of save on tax...). Will post if it goes well, or poorly. I also wondered whether better deals *might* be found at Circuit City stores now that the chain is closing, but I had already placed my order. You'd think a major chain closing would only mean dropping prices for the next few months. |
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