An independent, nonprofit analysis from the Consumers Union assists buyers in finding the best deals for TVs out there
By Gabe Perna
Good deals for TVs can often be hard to find. Luckily for consumers in the US and elsewhere, the March issue of Consumer Reports has rated more than 130 LCD and plasma TVs. It also dishes advice on what features are worth the price and what are not.
"Whether you're a first time buyer or you want to upgrade your existing flat-panel, TV prices have never been better and they continue to fall. It's not always best to go for the least-expensive model we've found that some features are worth the extra-cost,” states Paul Reynolds, Electronics Editor of Consumer Reports.
The TVs that ranked the best?
For LCD TVs
- Vizio VF550M, $1,400
- Toshiba Regza Cinema Series 52XV648U, $1,400
- Toshiba Regza 46XV645U, $1,000
- Insignia NS-L42Q-10A, $650
For Plasma TVs
- LG 50PQ30, $800
- Insignia NS-P501Q-10A (720p), $650
- Panasonic Viera TC-42PX14 (720p), $550
- LG 42PQ30
According to Consumer Reports, the following are a few things to consider when buying a new TV.
Resolution: 1080p vs. 720p resolution. According to Consumer Reports, the best bet is to buy a 1080p set if the TV is 50 inches or larger, and price isn't an issue. The resolution emits finer detail in 1080p, which is also known as full HD.
Less Blur: 120Hz & 240Hz. Consumer Reports says buying a 240 Hz LCD TV is not necessary, and in most cases neither is buying a 120Hz LCD TV. The results for these TVs were mixed. Casual viewers can go with the less expensive 60Hz and be satisfied.
Screen Size: Consumer Reports says consumers should purchase the biggest screen their budget and space allow, rather than buying a smaller TV with more features.
For more, www.consumerreportsenespanol.org