Plasma TVs rose to prominence following those using cathode-ray tubes. Compared to cathode-ray tube TVs, plasma technology including its many cells made it easier to make large, thin screens. Plasma TVs resulted in a higher-quality picture and made the best TVs because they had a higher refresh rate and definition.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Plasma TVs replaced cathode-ray tube TVs, introducing better image quality in a thinner, larger screen.
- Plasma TVs provided better quality for screen sizes larger than 42 inches compared to LCD TVs.
- Plasma TVs were better for lower lighting levels than LCD TVs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plasma Versus LCD TVs
Since cathode-ray tube TVs are no longer being made, people began comparing plasma TVs to liquid crystal display (LCD) TVs. When LCD was first developed, it was designed to display static images. However, the invention of plasma TVs allowed consumers to view active images, like those shown in movies and TV shows.
Advantages of Plasma TVs
Within a few years, LCD and plasma TVs both provided good-quality images. According to Panasonic, who manufactured both LCD and plasma TV screens at that time, plasma screens were better for larger screen sizes (more than 42 inches or 106.7 cm.) In lower lighting levels, plasma screen TVs surpassed LCD screens because of the difference in technology. They were also great if you wanted to find what is streaming tv and how it works since they offered some bright images.
The contrast on plasma screen TVs is greater than that on LCD TVs. Plasmas provide vibrant colors and deep blacks. Additionally, viewers sitting at greater angles see a similar picture to those that are looking straight-on. Since the discontinuation of plasma TVs, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) TVs became the option that provided this increased contrast. In fact, OLED TVs offer better image quality than the best plasma TVs. And you may also check out what is a nanocell TV if you want an image quality that’s better than an LCD TV.
Plasma screens initially cost less than LCD TVs. However, screen quality and size can affect caused a plasma TV to become more expensive.
Disadvantages of Plasma TVs
Plasma screens suffered from image retention. This issue arises when a still image remains on the screen for an extended time. Image retention causes problems for avid gamers. However, the picture may fade away after a few days. Although image retention affects LCD screens as well, it is much less common.
Overall, consumers looking for energy efficiency could find it more easily in an LCD TV. The power of a plasma TV depended on the light content of the videos played on the TV. Brighter images required more energy.
Although the plasma TV contained many electronics, it wasn’t as bright. This limitation could cause issues for fans of daytime viewing. Even when they were first introduced, LCD screens were brighter and performed better during the day.
What TV Type Is Best for Plasma TV Owners?
In 2015, manufacturers announced the discontinuation of plasma televisions. At this point, plasma TVs became much less common. Consumers with plasma TV sets will have to look at LCD or OLED televisions when it comes time to purchase a new TV. Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) TVs offer better image contrast with vibrant colors and deep blacks than regular light-emitting diode (LED) LCD TVs. In addition, OLED TVs may provide owners of plasma screens a better option in terms of image quality.
F.A.Q.
Is burn-in still a problem for plasma TV screens?
Plasma screens still face challenges when it comes to image retention or burn-in. This issue stems from the method used to make the image on the screen.
Who invented plasma screens?
Plasma screen TVs were invented in 1998 by Donald Bitzer and Gene Slottow. The inventors created a TV that would allow larger screens to show the Winter Olympics in Nagano.
Is there a difference in picture quality between plasma and LCD screens?
Plasma screens feature a cellular grid of pixels filled with gas. Electricity passes through these pixels, illuminating them and creating the image on the screen. On the other hand, LCD TV screens use liquid crystals that are lit up by backlighting. The light passing through the liquid crystals creates the image on these screens.
STAT: According to Panasonic, who manufactures both LCD and plasma TV screens, plasma screens are better for larger screen sizes (more than 42 inches or 106.7 cm). (source)
