Differences between LCD and plasma
If you are not a technology guru but in the market for a new television for your home, chances are you are confused about which type of TV will provide you with the best viewing opportunities. While both plasma and LCDs provide exceptional pictures that most likely beat the display you were receiving through your old television, there are differences between the two.
Screen size is one of the major differences between plasma and LCD TVs, although with the rapidly growing technology this is becoming less relevant. Plasma televisions specialize in providing larger screens than LCD TVs.
This is a perfect option if you are looking for a large television with a screen size of 50″ or more that you can use to create a movie theater experience in your own home. However, if you want a smaller television under 40″ that still provides an excellent picture, LCD TVs are the best option. 
The image quality is also a major different between LCD and plasmas screens. LCD TVs provide a much brighter image, yet plasmas are known for providing more accurate colors. In addition, plasmas tend to provide better viewing while setting off to the side of the television. In the past they also displayed fast moving objects much better, although LCD TVs have been catching up in recent years with this aspect.
Disadvantages of plasmas do remain. Due to the way they are constructed are susceptible to image burning if a static image remains on the screen for an extended period of time. Essentially the static image is burned into your television set, thus it can still be seen when watching other shows or even when your television is off. This most likely would occur if you leave your television on overnight and a static image is displayed while the channel is off air.
Another difference to consider when choosing between plasma and LCD screens is the overall price of each television. Plasma screen TVs generally are slightly less than the cost of a LCD TV that is the same size and brand.
However, due to rapid changes in technology as well as in the design and production of both types of televisions, the prices are becoming more and more similar. Most LCD TVs can be purchased for a price similar to that of a plasma screen TV.
Finally it is important to consider the differences that exist between how the different television screens operate. LCD TVs use pixels to display an image. Overtime the pixels in a LCD TV will burn out, leaving black and white dots on your screen. These cannot be replaced, thus the only way to get rid of them is to purchase a new TV. However, most LCD TVs come with a 60,000 hour guarantee, which means you can watch television for five hours each day for more than 30 years without experiencing a problem.
Plasma screens differ as they burn phosphors to provide an image on the screen. This used to shorten the lifetime a plasma screen had when compared to an LCD, but improvements in technology have made them almost equal in their lifetime guarantee.
Plasma TVs do generate more heat than LCD televisions, and they require more power. If you are focused on helping the environment choosing an LCD may be a better option since some experts claim they can reduce the amount of power needed by 30%.
