Lcd Tv Contrast Ratio?
February 9, 2010 by Rich
Filed under Frequently Asked Questions
I’m shopping for a LCD flat screen tv. Nothing special I just need at least a 42″ with 1080p. I actually saw a vizio that looked good at costco for 699.99 that was 1080p, 42″, LCD. But I don’t understand what contrast ratio is. The picture looks great compared to my standard tv but I noticed it’s not as bright as the more expensive tv’s. What is contrast ratio? And what would be the ideal ratio? Thanks
Hey!
well first you need to get over the myth of 1080p…lol.1080p is only worth purchasing if you are getting a 50″ or higher. If you are getting a 42″ 720 will be perfect.
Also please don’t waste you money on a Vizio. It may look good in the store, and if its your first LCD, then you may feel impressed with their picture, but they are really pieces of junk, and frame rate will look terrible if you try and play a bluray disk!
In regards to what ratio is:
If you take the brightest white on a screen, and the darkest black and compare the luminosity, you get the contrast ratio. For example, a 1000:1 contrast ratio means that the brightest white is 1000x brighter than the darkest black
Higher is better, most of the time, but if you’re purchasing a TV, bring a favorite DVD or two with dark and light scenes, and see how it appears to YOU – regardless of numbers, specs, and what anyone else says about a picture. All that matters is that you’re happy with it. Also, consider that most stores tuck TVs back in the corner, in a dim environment, and bump the contrast to maximum level to oversaturate the picture, and make it look “brighter”. Brighter is not always better! Remember that the set you pick will be going in your home, and chances are it’s going in a room that will get some sunlight and indoor light reflection!
I personally like the new plasma tvs that are out (and no, they do not burn out as some will rumor). But if you’re really going to get an LCD then go for the one that has the darker richer color, not the brightest one!
“but I noticed it’s not as bright as the more expensive tv’s.”
Televisions are often turned up to 100% brightness and contrast in the stores to be “eye catching” and to compete with harsh store lights.
Some stores -turn down the brightness on the cheaper sets just to try and drive customers to the higher end units.
My advice: look into a Sharp Aqous LCD or one of last years Sony XBR4 models which should be cheaper now that the newer XBR8 units are out. These will be a much better choice for your first HDTV.
The Vizio, Ensignia, Scarlet, etc. look good for a good price, but we have seen lots of complaints around here with these third-tier brands after owning them a few months.