- Look for current audio/video publications, either in print or online, including Electronic House, Home Theater, and Sound & Vision. These will offer detailed explanations of the technologies involved with both LCD and plasma screens, the differences between them, advantages of each, which one may be more suitable for where it will be used, and the highest-rated models of each type.
- Visit the websites for the major TV manufacturers--such as Sony, Samsung and Vizio. Their focus will be selling each model, but you use them to learn about what is available in your price range, which brands and models offer features you want and which ones give you the most for the lowest price. Compare the prices to those offered for the same models by stores like Best Buy and Wal-Mart, and keep an eye out for sales or specials.
- Look past the official sales pitches to see what unbiased sources and real users have to say about a particular model--how well it performs and any potential glitches and problems that may be common. Consumer Reports provides tests and comparisons on all manners of products; search its site for LCD and plasma TVs to see how they rate. Some articles require a subscription to view. Other sites, including Testfreaks and Alatest, provide expert and user reviews and price comparisons. Also, some retailers' sites, including Best Buy and Amazon.com, have sections for user reviews; scan those to see how people rate their purchase and look for a pattern of how well the TV holds up over time.
- The best way to compare TVs is to see them lined up together. Visit a television/electronics store and see which ones have a more vibrant picture and if they seem well-built. Test the features and see which ones have what you want.
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