Buying a television is simple... isn't it? Just take the newspaper, analyse the classified section, and find the best deal. However, is it necessary that "best price" is also a "best deal"? Not really. Like buying a property requires a lot of research, so does buying a television.

For e.g. Is there any difference in LCD and plazma screen? For all those who think "No", think again as there is certainly a difference between both of them. Yes, they both look similar and are flat and thin, however, the technologies they work on are very different. Also, they both have their pros and cons.

Read on for some tips on buying a television whether it is a tube set [which is almost being phased out], LCD, or a plazma screen.

Where is the Television to be fitted?

Always measure the space where the television is to be fitted. Make sure extra margins are left while taking measurements. This will help for wire / cable connections. Avoid placing the television near or around a fire place as the heat could damage the equipment.

Everyone demands a nice viewing experience... Isn't it?

Buying the latest large size plazma screens is quite a temptation. However, remember, the viewing experience will be good only if the distance between the screen and sitting area is appropriate. Ideally, for a 25 inch / 27 inch television, appropriate distance between the screen and sitting area should be eight feet, while for a 32 inch TV, the same distance should be 10 feet. Check the viewing distance calculator to find the optimal viewing distance for a specific screen size.

Can the vehicle size also be a factor in buying a television?

In case the buyer is planning to transport the television in his / her own vehicle, he / she must check if the television will fit the vehicle. In case own vehicle is not being used, an alternative is to check with the salesperson about free home delivery options or cheaper transport options. In this case, damage risk is covered by the transportation company.

What is the difference between Plazma and LCD TV?

Plazma television does not require the heavy picture tube as it uses burning of phosphors to create an image on the television screen. Sounds good? Hold on, there is a disadvantage in plazma tv as well. The heat generation and static images? screen-burn come along with the Plazma tv. LCD tv uses a different technology than a plazma tv. The LCD panels are made of polarized layers [two of them] of transparent material which are stuck together. One of the layers has individual liquid crystals through which current is passed. This makes the crystal allow or block light to form images. Thus, there are no phosphors used here which leads to lesser heat generation and no heat radiation from the screen.

Do accessories that come along with the TV matter?

Always check the remote control features and comfort in using it. Check if it has features like PIP [Picture in Picture], number of AV inputs, color and sound adjustment, etc.

While you are being careful about buying a television, take a pause while buying laptop / notebook as they also use plazma screens. Sony, Toshiba, Apple and HP have launched user friendly models. The Apple Macbook, HP Pavillion, and Sony Vaio have become quite popular.

Happy Viewing!