What are the top ten considerations when buying a new TV?

Considerations for buying a new TV

Before you race out and grab the biggest TV or the cheapest, consider these factors:

1. Budget. Most people have a limited budget, and it’s helpful to shop around to find the best deals. Be firm with sales people, some will ignore your budget.
2. Size. While big may seem better, but will you be comfortable watching it in the space you have? Small rooms and huge TV’s are an uncomfortable combination, as are tiny ones viewed from a distance.
3. LCD vs Plasma. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) gives a beautifully clear picture. Plasma is generally a very big screen format, so you need the space to get the best out of it. It also uses considerably more electricity to run than LCD TV’s.
4. Screen resolution.. Televisions that are far away from the viewer, or for elderly people, for example, may need to be higher resolution. 2080p Full HD.
5. Application. Will you be using the TV with video games? If so you may want full HD resolution to fully enjoy the experience. Is the television only for home entertainment, or will it be used for professional applications like viewing video footage, for example? This will affect the picture quality and technical specifications you will be looking for.
6. Compatibility with other devices. What else do you want to have running with your new TV? Games, DVDs and other technologies may have particular requirements in terms of compatibility, and you should check this before purchasing a TV e.g. HDMI, composite and component.
7. Brand. Choose a brand you know and trust.
8. Warranty. How long does the warranty cover your set for? What parts does it cover?
9. Your new TV must also be digital compatible. This government website; www.digitalready.gov.au will help you with what this means.

Before you go out to buy a TV, have a budget in mind, as well as the size you are after and the type of TV. Remember to check if your new TV will be compatible with other devices that you want to connect to your new TV.

Your new TV

Thinking about these ten considerations should put you in a good position to find just the right TV for your needs. Shop around and don’t be afraid to ask questions of sales people, as they are in the best position to help you assess exactly what will work best for you.