This flat panel tv buying guide article explains exactly the disadvantages of plasma tv. Plenty of benefits are touted about plasma TVs. But what are the dis-advantages to buying and operating a plasma TV? Lets find out in this non technical flat panel tv buying guide article, helping you select the best tv for your needs.Disadvantages of plasma tv ...
Screen SizePlasma screen sizes, typically, range from 32” to 84”. So if you want a smaller screen you won’t be able to find it in plasma.
Contrast/BrightnessThe newer plasma units (within the last 2 years) have vastly improved in brightness and contrast clarity, BUT the older units have very poor brightness and contrast clarity. This makes for very poor picture quality. DO NOT buy a used plasma TV that was manufactured over a year or two ago.
Screen Refreshing RatesPlasma TVs have been known, from the beginning, to have excellent refresh rates and, in the past, significantly outperformed the LCD TVs. However that has changed with newer technology and refresh rate differences for Plasma and LCD TVs are negligible. Remember, LCDS were used, initially, for data display. The newest technology with LCDs have typical refresh rates of 16ms or less (the lower the number the better). This means that LCD TVs refresh as well as Plasma TVs.
Optional (or no) TunerMost plasma screens do not have tuners. When tuners are offered they tend to be fairly expensive to upgrade. So, unless you are using it with satellite, digital cable or external HD boxes then expect to pay more for a good quality tuner.
Pixel Quality and burn-inNewer technology has reduced the burn-in effect (to almost impossible) of plasma TVs very significantly by use of “pixel orbiter”. HOWEVER, plasma TVs can suffer from burn in if a still picture is left on the screen. So, if you are planning to use your plasma display as a computer screen, caution would be advisable. But, used as a TV or video screen – have at it.
DurabilityPlasma screens are fairly fragile, when being handled, and very heavy compared to standard TVs. If you are planning to mount a plasma on the wall – have plenty help or hire a professional. You will need it.
High AltitudeIf you live at a higher altitude be sure to check that your Plasma TV is designed with high altitude specifications. Because Plasma TVs are gas charged significant change in altitude can affect the pixel performance due to the differing pressures in different altitudes.
ShippingPlasma TVs are fragile and damage easily when handling. Expect to pay more for shipping a Plasma TV because they, typically, have to be shipped by specialty carriers. If you are picking up your own Plasma set and installing it. Have plenty of help when handling your set.
