The Video Advisor - A one stop resource for independent film making and video production advice

LCD or PLASMA Display?  Which one is better?
by Andrew Lock

The short answer to the debate about which is better out of LCD or Plasma is, it depends.  Of course, that answer requires explanation, which is the purpose of this article.

First let's state the advantages of both formats of display.  Both LCD and Plasma screens are relatively flat compared to traditional CRT displays.  They can both be hung on a wall, or situated against a wall, with very little footprint required.  They both have the capability of displaying high definition content, although this is not always the case - some models are not built to display full HD resolution, and some LCD displays are only standard definition.

Now let's get to the differences.

1.  Screen size.  This is changing all the time, but generally, plasma screens are geared towards the larger sizes, from 37" upwards, with 42" being the most popular size.  LCD screens on the other hand are generally below 37", although this may change over time.

2. Burn in.  You may have heard lots of horror stories about burn-in.  Yes, plasma is prone to burn-in, which means that if a static image is left on the screen over more than a few hours, the image will be burnt in to the screen permanently, leaving a slight ghost like image that can always be seen.  The reality is that with careful use, there is no reason to be concerned about burn-in.  Manufacturers are well aware of the problem, and many of them have implemented technology to continuously move pixels to avoid or lessen the chances of this happening.  Having said that, if you have kids who are not likely to heed the warning not to leave static images on screen, you should think carefully about buying a plasma. LCD screens do not suffer from burn in, but they are more susceptible to bad pixels, which can be equally annoying.  A bad pixel can stand out if it is always on, because it will display a white dot on the screen permanently.

3. Weight.  There is no doubt that plasmas are significantly heavier than LCD screens.  In many cases this won't matter, but if you are considering hanging a large plasma display, you WILL have to reinforce the supporting wall if it is not brick.  Do not try and mount a plasma without specialist advice, it's just not worth the risk.

4. Heat.  Plasmas generate more heat than LCD screens, although in most cases this is not an issue that will affect the average user.

5. Depth.  LCD screens have the edge over plasmas on this one, but not by much.

5. Picture quality.  Plasmas are better at displaying moving images, which accounts for much of the TV that we watch of course.  LCD's have a tendency to blur a fast moving image because the screen refresh rate is slower.  On the other hand, contrast ratios tend to be superior on LCD screens.  You need to view each image side by side to make your own decision on this one.

6. Durability. There has been a lot of information circulating that states that plasmas don't last long.  While it is true that they do not last as long as LCD displays, you have to look at a real world scenario.  In the vast majority of cases, a plasma will easily last longer than the expected time that the owner plans to keep it.  For example, an average user will probably replace their existing plasma with a better model within  ten years of purchasing it.  The life of the plasma would extend beyond that in most cases, other than if it is in use many hours each day.

7.  Intended use.  For most video applications, plasma will display a better image.  For computer applications that require many static screens at high resolution, an LCD is the preferred option.

8. Price. At the moment, plasma has the edge in terms of value for money, but LCD are playing rapid catch-up and the situation may well be reversed eventually.

9. Power requirements.  This is probably a minor issue for many users, but it's worth noting that LCD screens consume significantly less power compared to plasmas.

10. Altitude of operation.  Again, this won't affect most users, but if you live half way up a mountain you should be aware that plasma screens do not work well at high altitude due to the internal gas being affected by the air pressure.  This results in the plasma working harder, the fan noise is louder, and the expected life span is decreased.  LCD displays do not suffer any harmful effects at high altitude.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider in weighing the pros and cons of your personal situation.  If it is essential to have the largest picture, then obviously you have no choice but to go with a plasma.  Likewise, if you need a display that sits as close to a wall as possible, then you would probably go with an LCD.

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