HD TV buying guide

Posted on 10 Dec 2009 at 18:07

 

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Find out all you need to know about choosing the right HD TV.

Recommended minimum specs

Screen size: 32in

Native resolution: 1,920x1,080

Inputs: 2x HDMI, VGA, 2x SCART

Follow the steps to find your ideal specs

1. A 32in TV with the specifications above will cost around £350 and will suit most living rooms. Screens with 26in displays are less common, as they're no cheaper and can be too small to view comfortably. Look to get a 37in or 42in set if you want a big screen; larger TVs will probably look too large in most people's living rooms.
2. A TV with the resolution above can display a full HD 1080p (1,920x1,080) image. You can buy 32in models with a 720p (1,366x768) resolution, but they're not much cheaper and aren't worth bothering. To see Full HD's 1080p detail in its full glory, we recommend at least a 37in model for 1080p.
3. Carefully consider the number of inputs on your TV, so that you can plug in all your kit. Two HDMI ports is the minimum, and most models come with four. Don't forget other devices, such as games consoles and PVRs, and make sure that your TV has enough SCART and component sockets to accommodate them. If you want to plug your PC into your TV, check the specifications. Some TVs will only let you use a PC on an analogue input; others won't display the Windows desktop at the TV's highest resolution.
4. The contrast ratio tells you the difference between how the TV displays blacks and whites. The higher the number, the darker the blacks and the lighter the whites. High contrast ratios also imply that you'll see a wider range of detail. Plasma TVs generally have higher contrast ratios, but you should also look for LCD TVs with dynamic backlights, which improve the contrast ratio.
5. There are several ways to get HD content. Sky HD has the widest selection of channels, but requires a Sky HD box and costs £10 a month extra. Freesat gets you BBC HD and ITV HD. It has no monthly subscription and requires a simple receiver. A Blu-ray player lets you watch movies.
6. Extras, such as a network port, can be worth paying for as they may allow you to access online content, plus media from a DLNA or UPnP server on your network.

Author: Expert Reviews Staff