When it comes to LCD TVs, Samsung currently produce arguably the best and most popular LCD TV models in the market. Panasonic on the other hand, holds the reign when it comes to Plasma TVs. To put it simply, if you are torn between buying a LCD and Plasma HDTV, you will have to choose between and Samsung and Panasonic model. Here is a quick guide to help you make your decision.
Viewing Angle: Both Samsung LCD and Panasonic Plasma TVs have similar viewing angles. Plasma TV's viewing angle can be as wide as 178 degrees, while LCD TV's are up to 175 degrees. Although both types of TVs have similar viewing angles, the images of Plasma TVs do not suffer from any degradation of quality even when viewed from odd angles. LCDs on the other hand, are best viewed from the front for the best visuals.
Refresh Rates: Traditionally, Plasma TVs have lighting speed refresher rates, similar to the rates of CRT televisions. LCDs on the other hand have much slower refresher rates, but recent technological advancements have greatly improved the refresher rates of LCD TVs. Some high-end (and expensive) LCD TV models today have refresher rates of 5ms.
Burn In: Plasma TVs are not well suited for the display of static images. After prolonged use of displaying static videos, they are prone to burn-in effects, where it will leave behind permanent video 'residues' on the screen, very much like a permanent shadow on the screen. Newer models today have significantly curbed this problem. LCDs on the other hand, are prone to a similar problem called "retained pixel charge" where a pixel (or a groups of pixels) remains discolored. Fortunately, this problem is fixable.
Life Span: Most LCD models today last between thirty thousand and sixty thousand hours. Plasma TVs take around the same amount of time to reach 'half life' (where the display fades to more than half of its brightness). Recently, Panasonic has announced that its Plasma TVs can last up to 100'000 hours.
Durability: Plasma TVs are generally heavier and a little thicker than LCD TVs. Due to its weight; it is best to leave the installation process to the experts, especially if you plan to mount your Plasma on the wall. Plasmas are also more fragile, so extra care should be taken when transporting them.
Image Quality: It is undisputed that Plasma TVs produced clearer and sharper images. This is due to this high contrasts ratio that is unrivalled by even the most expensive LCD model. The blacks are deeper and the visuals are more brilliant on a Plasma TV. On the other hand, the screen of LCD display reflects very little light, producing a better viewing experience in a brightly lighted room.