If you are in the market for a new TV, the options can be overwhelming. You can choose from LED, plasma, and now, the new kid on the block, OLED.
OLED is similar to LED but uses organic light emitting diodes that control each pixel individually.
So how do these compare in actual use? Let’s look at a few of the deciding factors when it comes to purchasing a new TV.
How Much Do They Cost?
When it comes to cost, plasma is the winner. Though you can find some LEDs that are cheaper, plasmas are generally the less expensive choice when comparing each type of TV with the same screen size.
On the other hand, OLED TVs are still a relatively new technology and cost around $9,000.
What Sizes and Brands Are Available?
LED wins the size category. LED TVs are available in all sizes. Plasma TVs are available in larger sizes, typically 42 to 65 inches, and OLED TVs are only available in 55 inches for now.
Similarly, LED wins the brand category, as all TV manufacturers sell LED TVs. Samsung and LG are currently the only brands offering either plasma or OLED.
Which Is the Best Choice for Picture Quality?
Here is where the OLED finally gets to shine. OLED wins for both contrast and black level. Because the OLED TV can turn off each pixel individually, it has a near perfect black level.
Since it is one of the brighter screen options and has such a great black level, it also has great contrast. Contrast is generally what people perceive as depth and clear picture quality.
Therefore, if you aren’t concerned about cost, then OLED may be the way to go!
Motion Blur and Viewing Angle
These 2 categories are dominated by plasma. Even though LED and OLED have increased their refresh rates to combat the problem of motion blur, plasma is still the easy winner here.
Plasma TVs also offer the best off-axis viewing. While LED and OLED displays are higher quality when watching from center, plasma offers clearer viewing from the sides. OLED screens are actually curved which can actually inhibit viewing from the side.
Energy Consumption
LED TVs simply use less energy than both plasma and OLED. Current research is aiming to lower the energy consumption of OLED televisions to match that of the LED, but for now LED is the winner.
Resolution
LED can’t be touched in this category, thanks to their new Ultra HD 4K resolution. However, several factors such as screen size and contrast play a huge part in picture quality. Resolution is only a small component in the picture quality equation.
Which TV is the Best Choice for You?
Ultimately, the answer to this question comes down to which factors you find most important. If price is no object and you want the best picture quality available, choose the OLED.
On the other hand, if you want the highest resolution, lowest energy consumption and a brand other than Samsung or LG, then go with the LED.
Looking for the best price point and a TV that you can watch comfortably from anywhere in the room? Plasma is your best bet.
We Mount TVs Can Help
If you want more information or have any questions about the different types of TVs, contact the experts at We Mount TVs.
We can help you choose and install TVs for you, making sure to hide the wires and mounting in the best location for optimal viewing.
Contact We Mount TVs in Birmingham or Orlando today!