Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Plasma TVs Vs. DLP TVs


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Plasma and DLP Rear Projection are two types of TV sets that come in a variety of brands and models nowadays. In terms of picture quality, both DLP and Plasma TVs have much to offer. The areas of interest for consumers are: contrast, clarity, color saturation and accuracy, and brightness.
Contrast
Contrast measures the difference between the darkest (black) and lightest (white) spectrum that the TV can display. Since DLP is a relatively new technology, it cannot offer the high contrast ratios that Plasma TVs can. Some Plasma TVs offer contrast ratios from 2000:1 to even 4000:1. However it’s important to note that unless you plan on watching TV in a completely darkened room, a contrast ratio over 1000:1 is virtually indistinguishable from 500:1. When it comes to black and white levels, Plasmas TVs win out over DLP TVs.
Picture Clarity
In general, Plasma TVs have better picture clarity than DLP TVs, the difference is minimal. Picture clarity refers to the sharpness of the edges and lines in images displayed on the TV screen. When it comes to color saturation, Plasma TVs win hands down. If you go to a show room and do an eye to eye comparison between the two, you’ll notice the difference. Colors on Plasma TVs are richer and more vibrant than on DLPs. DLP TVs are less reliable with color saturation. Some colors display well while others leave much to be desired. If you’re looking for deep, rich hues on your TV screen, Plasma is the way to go.
Brightness
When it comes to brightness, both DLP and Plasmas are well matched. There’s no clear advantage to either.
Size
DLP TVs are rear-projection sets and generally come in larger models (40, 50 and 61"). Like their traditional rear projection TV counterparts, DLP TVs require almost the same amount of space, with the exception of the base. Plasma TVs start at 37" to 60" and are known to for their super slim designs, with the average coming in around 3.5". In retail stores, Plasma TVs are typically mounted onto walls and tables. DLP TVs are deeper and bulkier. The choice comes down to preference.
Price
For the same viewing screen, DLPs are cheaper than Plasma TVs. However as the technology required to produce Plasma TVs decreases, the prices of the units will follow suit. As of early 2009, a 67" DLP comes in under $2000 while a 60" Plasma runs close to $5000.
One of the nice things about Plasma TVs is that they almost always come with a computer input making them nice, albeit expensive, computer monitor replacements. DLPs are designed for home-entertainment and do not sport the necessary plugs for a computer monitor hookup.
Viewing Angle
Plasmas have near perfect 180 degree viewing angle which means that the picture looks almost the same regardless of which angle you watch from. DLPs, however, range from around 100 degree and under.
Lifespan
DLPs have a longer lifespan than Plasma TVs because of the way they display images. DLP technology bounces light from a bulb off mirrors. If the bulb goes out it can be replaced ($200 or less). However Plasma TVs emit light from the emission of natural gases and cannot be replaced. Plasma TVs should be replaced every three to four years. DLP light bulbs last around eight to nine years.
Overall, Plasma TVs seem to win out in most categories over DLP TVs; however if you’re looking for a TV that will last years, DLP may still be an attractive option.

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