Is High Definition LCD Television Overrated?

Both high definition and LCD, which are truly two completely different technologies, offer cutting edge television viewing enhancement. Really enthusiastic fans of television are already convinced that these technologies represent truly exciting advances in television science. The more average TV fan is probably adopting a wait and see attitude.

High Definition

If high definition LCD television is overrated, it might be because of the high definition part; high definition means more lines of resolution. Every television screen is made up of lines in a way similar to how comics are made up of dots. For TV, the lines are projected top to bottom renewing faster than the eye can see making the picture look like it is moving. The more lines of resolution there are, the better the resolution of the picture.

High definition is also one of three digital resolution formats. Digital pictures are always clearer and sharper than analog, while standard and enhanced resolution formats offer 480 lines of resolution. High definition offers either 720 or 1080 lines. So how could this be bad?

Well, a high definition LCD television is expensive. The TV set, of course, is top of the line and you would obviously then expect to pay more for it, but to receive high definition signals, you will also need a special receiver which can be bought or rented from your cable or satellite provider. Some broadcast stations send out high definition signals.

You will have to check your local broadcasters for that. Remember also that not all stations or networks make high definition shows, and only a handful use the expensive broadcast technology. Some provide high definition broadcasting for a part of the day.

The problem for them is that more of their viewers have lower definition sets so they have to broadcast the same show at standard resolution and high def resolution simultaneously. In order to receive these broadcasts from your cable or satellite provider, you will thus have to purchase a more expensive high definition package.

Those who think that high definition LCD television is overrated because of the high definition element, are those who are willing to wait for the technology to become less expensive – as all new technology does – and more widely owned. They want to wait for more high def channels and programming and better packages from cable and satellite companies. Those who think it’s not rated highly enough, have no concerns in these areas.

Liquid Crystal Display

Simply put, high definition LCD television uses that of liquid crystal display technology. Only a few years ago, LCD TVs could only be viewed from directly in front of the screen. It’s improved a lot but many companies are actively pursuing even more improvements.

The hang-backers are waiting for the perfection of this technology, too. Whether or not you think high definition LCD television is overrated depends on how much you like TV and how comfortable you are with new technology.