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| | | Plasma televisions are popular for their flat screens, depth of color and high picture quality. Technology has improved, and "burn in" -- when an image becomes permanently etched in the screen -- is not as much of an issue anymore. Prices continue to drop. | | |
| Typical costs: | - On the low end, a plasma television up to 42 inches typically costs $800 to $1,500. Recommended models include the Panasonic TH-42PZ700U, which sells for about $1,350 to $1,600 and the Vizio VP42 which sells for $650 to $1,000.
- In the mid-range, a plasma television up to 50 inches typically costs $1,500 to $3,000. Models that have received good reviews include the 50-inch Pioneer Kuro PDP-5080HD, which has excellent black-level performance and an anti-reflective screen, but is higher priced at $2,800 to $3,500. The 50-inch Panasonic TH-50PH10UK, which sells for about $1,300 to $1,900, also was well-received.
- On the high end, a plasma television of 60 inches or larger typically costs $3,000 to $5,000 and up. Prices can go as high as $10,000 or more. Examples include the 60-inch Pioneer Kuro PDP-6010FD, which sells for about $4,600 to $6,500, and the 63-inch Samsung FP-T6374, which sells for about $4,800 to $7,000.
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| What should be included: | - Most televisions come with a one-year manufacturer's warranty that covers defective components.
- Tip: Before making a purchase, compare plasma televisions with LCD televisions -- the other popular type of flat-screen HDTV. PCWorld.com provides an overview of the pros and cons of each.
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| Additional costs: | - A wall mount can add as much as several hundred dollars to the final price.
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| Discounts: | - Tip: Look for rebate offers from manufacturers.
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| Shopping for a plasma 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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