What features should I be looking for when buying an LCD tele?

Question

I'm looking to buy a 20 to 23inch although I think if I find a 26" for the same price I will be buying a 26".

Also, Does it matter about which brand you buy?

Answer 1

Of course brand matters. You get what you pay for. Sony, Samsung, Sharp, LG and Toshiba are the brands that you want.  Stay away from all the other c**p or you will regret it.  

Answer 2

To help narrow your search a little, DON'T buy anything on the list below, no matter how cheap.  They are all total rubbish:

Acer

Acoustic Solutions

Akai

Akito

Akura

Alba

A.O.C.

Atec

Beko

Beond

Bush

Cello

Compacks

Crown

Cyberdyne

Cyberhome

Daewoo

Dansai

Deccacolour

DiBoss

Digihome

Digilogic

Digix

D.M. Tech

Elonex

Erae

Ferguson

Finlux

Funai

Fusion

Goodmans

Grundig

H. & B.

Hanspree

Harwa

Hikona

HiSense

Ikasu

Kenmark

Konka

Lenco

Lexsor

Lodos

Logik

Luzo

Matsui

Maxim

Medion

Mikomi

Mirai

Mogen

Naiko

O.N.N.

Orion

Phocus

Prima

Proline

Streamium

Swisstec

Symphonic

Tatung

Technisat

Techno

Technosonic

Techwood

Tokai

Tosumi

T.W.F.

Venturer

Video Seven

Viewpia

Vision

Yamada

Yusmart

Answer 3

As far as brand it can matter but I don't pay top price just for a name.  Sometimes checking Consumer Reports or something like JDpower.com can tell you what experts or current customers think of a particular model or brand. (although I don't recommend more obscure names)

Size is your first consideration (which you already know).  

Resolution is important too for a good picture. 720p is good, 1080p is better but I wouldn't pay more for 1080p if I don't see a real difference when looking at them. (many people don't see the difference).  720p is better than 720i and generally I do recommend "p" over "i"...the difference is in how the lines are displayed on the screen "progressive scan" or "interlaced".

Look at them on the floor, especially during fast action scenes to see if one picture appeals to you more than another...some handle fast motion better than others. (some have a bit of blurring)

Another thing to check is compatible connections with any other devices you may have (like a DVR).

Good luck, but don't stress too much on the details.

Answer 4

I suggest you try Panasonic who seem to have the upper edge according to all the reports. As TV cameras shoot via a system call progressive scan you should aim for something like a resolution of 1080P (progressive scan) and ensure that it's HD ready.