Consumer Reports Compares 3D, LCD, Plasma TVs

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- In most cases, choice is a good thing, but when it comes to wide screen televisions it can be dizzying for most of us.

Ultimately, it's going to come down to price.

In each price range, there are the same decisions to make; 60, 120, or 240 hertz, LCD, LED, or plasma, 2D or 3D.

Let's break this down one at a time.

First plasma, LCD or LED.

LCD is a great option for people who are looking for a good picture without all of the extra bells and whistles.  These TVs use fluorescent lighting to provide the background lighting.

LCD-LEDs use LED lights, providing better black levels.  These televisions use far less energy than regular LCDs, and are a bit more expensive.

However, the LED televisions will cost the consumer less to use.

Price-wise, plasma is the way to go.  But, what about the picture quality?

Plasma does over true and natural colors.  While the colors may not be as bright as an LCD or an LED, some believe that plasma offers a more realistic looking picture.

The refresh rate of your television is measures in hertz; 60, 120, or 240.  This is a big issue for action movies, sports, and gaming.

For most people, 120 hertz does the trick, and plasmas run even faster.

So what about 3D?

Jim Willcox of Consumer Reports explained what their tests showed.

"Plasma TVs handle 3D better than the LCD TVs, primarily because there's less ghosting," Willcox said.

Consumer Reports also said that more 3Ds are coming out and the prices are coming down. 

But, if you choose to go 3D now, remember it is a feature already added to high end televisions and typically will cost $500 more than a "comparative model."

Many 2D televisions are now offering Wi-Fi capabilities as well as the ability to stream video.  A lot of blue ray players have the same capabilities, and may be cheaper than buying the upgraded TV.

Consumer Reports ranked plasma first, LCD second, and LCD-LED third.  They also mentioned that the LED backlighting, while not inherently superior, is "worth paying more for if you want the thinnest profile and lower utility bills."

From a cost standpoint, the televisions ranked the same way.  Plasma is the cheapest; LCD is second, followed by LCD-LED with the biggest price tag.

All of this said, just remember that when it comes right down to it, you're the one that's going to be sitting in front of this watching it in your home.  So, what looks best to you?

Specific Recommendations from Consumer Reports:

THE BEST 3D TV

LCD'S