Choosing a TV set for your living room is an important decision that needs a certain amount of consideration and know-how. Whether you're planning to buy your first set or upgrade your old one, there are a few things to consider before investing in a TV.
SizePrices, brand names and other perks are all factors when choosing a television. However, size is probably the thing that should be considered first. People usually consider only two things when it comes to size: choosing the biggest TV they can afford or picking one that fits nicely in the space created for it. While these are points to consider in themselves, there's also so much more than meets the eye when it comes to sizes.
You need to take note that flat-screen televisions take up less space than CRTs, so your new LCD may sit farther away from your viewing position than is necessary, making it appear smaller. Consider also that the larger the TV, the more it will reveal the weaknesses in standard-definition pictures.
The secret to choosing the perfect TV for your home is to make sure the set is large enough to fill your line of vision and just the right size to provide a sharp and clear picture. If your future viewing plans only include standard-definition sources, invest in a screen ideal for this type of input.
Extended WarrantiesWarranties are available for most electrical goods. An extension for these warranties is often an option, and they provide extra benefits on occasion, such as customer helplines and assistance. From getting your hoover an extended warranty, to an
extended warranty for LCD tvs, they are quite common. But no matter the kind of television you have, if it has been a big investment for you, then you’ll definitely want to keep it safe.
To get security for your new television, you will want to take up an extended warranty. The initial factory warranty isn’t always great, and on most occasions only lasts a year. So by obtaining an extended warranty, you can assure that if you accidently throw your TV remote at the screen, you’ll be covered. TVs tend to last quite a long time, but you never want to run a risk you shouldn’t have to.
FeaturesOnce features enter the fray, the list of things to consider could go on and on, so it's important to priorities. Make sure the TV you’re considering is HD ready, which means it meets the European Information and Communications Technology Industry Association (EICTA) requirements. If the TV's specs tell you it's got at least one HDMI port, at least 1024 x 768 pixel density and component video inputs, then chances are your chosen set can handle high-definition images.
Digital tuners are also a must, especially with analogue TV broadcasts being phased out completely back in 2012. Most models now come with Free sat HD or Free view HD. Check to see if the set also features USB sockets and slots for memory cards as these will be useful for viewing pictures and videos from your digital camera and camcorder.
Other things you need to consider are contrast, colours, fine detail, edges, motion and image artefacts. The best way you can test all of these features is to observe the TV during a demonstration. Are the colours bright and solid? How much texture does the screen provide? Make a checklist to make the process of choosing a model easier and more efficient.