Tv Types. Ultimately, today's abundance of choices gives you a lot more flexibility in picking the TV that's right for you and your budget.

TV Types

Before you take the plunge and buy a new television, you should understand the different types of technologies and what to look for when you make a purchase.

Direct view (CRT) Mature, proven technology. Least expensive type of TV, with best video quality. Maximum screen size limited. Larger sets are big, bulky, and heavy (more than 200 pounds). Still the standard for top picture quality, these offer wide selection and best value.


LCD Thin and light. Can be wall-mounted. Sleek look. No risk of burn-in of static images. Some can double as a computer display. Maximum screen size limited--for now, at least. Larger models can be costly. Image may dim as you angle away from center of screen. Have less contrast than direct-view sets. Trendy flat screen with decent picture quality, but much more expensive than similar-sized direct-view sets.


Plasma Thin and wall-mountable. Sleek look. High brightness and contrast. Power-hungry. Generate lots of heat. Some lack speakers and tuner. Burn-in of static images a concern. Fairly heavy. Wall-mounting can be costly. Big, bright screens with a real wow factor, but expensive.


Rear projection (CRT-based) Lowest price for big-screen TV, with wide selection and plentiful features. Big, bulky, and heavy. CRTs need periodic realignment. Image may dim as you angle away from center of screen. May require professional installation. The lowest-cost big screens, but they?re space hogs.

Rear projection (LCD- and DLP-based) Thinner and lighter than CRT-based siblings. No risk of burn-in. Higher resolution than CRT-based units. Pricey, especially for bigger screens. LCD-based: black parts of image not truly black. Image may dim as you angle away from center of screen. Backlight bulb may need periodic replacement. Relative slimness makes them an attractively priced big-screen alternative to expensive flat panels.