Note: Although CRT-based (Tube) televisions have been out at this point in time, information on what to consider when buying a CRT-based television is still provided in this article for those that may be buying such a set on clearance, through private parties, or online sources.
Tip #6 -- 3D
If you are considering the purchase of TV that offers 3D viewing capability (all 3D TVs can also be used for normal TV viewing as well), be aware of the two important factors.
First, be aware of the two types of 3D glasses that are available:
Passive Polarized glasses that look and wear much like sunglasses. TVs that require this type of 3D glasses will display 3D images at half resolution of a 2D image.
Active Shutter glasses, which are slightly bulky, since they have batteries and a transmitter that synchs the rapidly moving shutters for each eye with the onscreen display rate. TVs that use this type of 3D glasses will display 3D at the same resolution as 2D images.
Some TVs come with one or more pairs of 3D glasses, or they may be an accessory that must be purchased separately. Active glasses are more expensive than Passive glasses.
For the entire rundown on 3D Glasses, refer to my article: 3D Glasses - Passive vs Active.
Also, be aware that when buying a TV with 3D viewing capability, that you also need 3D source components and content to take full advantage of 3D viewing. In other words, you will need one, or more, of the following: A 3D Blu-ray Disc player, 3D Blu-ray Discs, and/or 3D capable Cable/Satellite Box and services offering 3D programing. There is also some 3D content available via internet streaming, such has Vudu 3D.
For everything you need to know about 3D, check out my entire Complete Guide to Watching 3D at Home.
Tip #7 -- Remote Control/Ease of Use
When shopping for a television, make sure the remote control is easy for you to use. Have the salesperson explain it to you if you are not sure of some of the functions. If you need to control several items with the same remote, make sure it is a universal remote and that it is compatible with at least some of the other components you have at home. Another bonus to check for is where the remote control is backlit. In other words, do the remote control buttons light up. This is a very practical feature for use in a darkened room.
As an added consideration, see if most of the TV functions can be controlled on the TV itself (the controls are usually located on the bottom front of the TV, below the screen). Also, in the case of LCD and Plasma TV, these controls may also be located on the side. A few TVs may actually have the controls on top of the TV. This can be very important if you misplace or lose your remote. Exact replacement remotes are not cheap and generic universal remotes may not control all the important functions of your new TV. However, if you find that you do need an exact replacement remote control, a good source to check out Remotes.com.
Of course, there are many other tips that can aid you in buying a TV, features such as picture-in-picture, commercial skip timers, channel block (every new TV now has the V-Chip), TV Guide Plus, Networking and Internet access via Ethernet connection, etc... can all be taken into consideration, depending on your needs, but my purpose in this article was to point out some fundamental tips that apply to any TV purchase that we often overlook in favor of the "gadgets" or "good deal" approach to TV purchasing.
Some Final Considerations
In conclusion, here are some final considerations regarding your television purchase.
Needed Accessories: When buying your television, don't forget additional accessories you might need, such as coaxial and audio-video cables, power surge protector, and any other items that you will need to make the installation of your television complete, especially if you are integrating your TV with an overall home theater system. Also, if you purchase a video projector, keep in mind that you will have to replace the light source bulb periodically, and to take that cost into consideration as a needed accessory cost down the line.
Extended Service Plans: Consider an extended service plan on a projection television or if the TV is more than $1,000. Although televisions rarely need repair, those repairs can be costly, especially for a CRT-based projection set. CRT projection sets house three projection tubes, one for green, one for blue, and one for red. If one projection tube becomes defective, all three must be replaced to insure the correct color balance. In addition, if you buy a Plasma or LCD television and something happens to operation of the screen, the entire set would probably have to be replaced, as these units are basically a single, integrated, piece.
Also, extended service plans usually include actual home service and may even offer some type of loaner while your set is being repaired. Lastly, many home service plans for projection televisions include a "once-a-year" tuneup where a technician will come out to your home, open the set, clean out all the dust and check for the proper color and contrast balance. If you have invested a lot of money in your projection set, this service is well worth it to keep it top notch condition; if you choose to take advantage of it.
For an additional, helpful, resource go to the following link to get a great abbreviated check list to take shopping with you: How To Buy A Television
If you are confused about buying an HDTV, be sure to check out my HDTV FAQs - Answers To Basic Questions About HDTV.
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