Plasma lifespan? LCD? Which is better?

Question

We are considering replacing our 4 year old 42" rear projection TV with either a plasma or an LCD TV. We are replacing what we have because the gray bars that they put on channels not broadcasting in HD/ widescreen format have burned in and it's annoying- that said, should we go for a plasma or an LCD? We were told to buy at least 50" to compensate for the different screen shape, so we are talking about a pretty big investment. We use the set mostly for TV watching, but we also play video games, so we want to watch for burn in. What recommendations do you have?

Answer 1

i actually have both...and play video games on both.  I think the contrast on a plasma is much better than LCDs.  The samsung Plasma also have anti-burn-in functionality which is supposed to clear up any burn in issues.

But if you are really concerned about it from your experience, i would just go with LCD as the newer 1080p ones have really great picture.

Answer 2

LCD TV is better. - My own point

Answer 3

The newer Plasma's have the longest lifespan of any TV out on the market.  If you want my honest opinion, I love Plasma's because are able to give a better representation of colors and contrast.  Some new plasmas allow a consumer to use a special built in wiper to remove what is commonly called burn in.  However, if you don't want to be concerned with this problem, you should go with a LCD.  I think you'll be happy with the LCD.