Perhaps you have already discovered that new high-definition television sets (HDTVs) use two technologies — plasma and liquid crystal display (LCD). And you’ve found that LCD sets are less expensive than plasma, so you decided to buy a new LCD TV. What are the top 3 tips or things to consider when buying a LCD television?

Go for 1080p with local dimming LED backlighting

For the sharpest image in a number of different formats, go for 1080p (1920×1080 pixels). That’s over 2 million pixels. (The “p” means progressive scans.) You need 1080p to view Blu-Ray and HD DVDs in native full resolution, You also need 1080p for best results with gaming and computer applications. Look for compatibility with other formats — 1080i, 720P, 480P, 480i.

The design and production of a LCD TV is highly complex, and the technology is changing rapidly. In order to achieve the deepest blacks and well-saturated color, manufacturers have come out with several methods of providing the internal light that powers the screen and produces the color. Local dimming LED (light-emitting diode) LCDs provide excellent results. Each group of LEDs lights only a small portion of the screen allowing finer-grain control of blacks and colors. The larger the number of “dimming zones,” the better the result. Another, much more expensive, dimming technology uses individual colored LED lights to produce even more stunning results.

Go for an Internet-ready LCD TV

The future of television is in streaming content over the Internet. Make sure your new HDTV can access internet content as seamlessly and easily as possible, with a wide range of content choices. Make a list of your favorites such as Netflix, Rhapsody, xxx and others. Make sure your choice of Internet-ready LCD includes your favorites.

You must have broadband Internet service in order to get streaming Internet content. For best results, connect your Internet-ready LCD TV to your router via an Ethernet cable.

Check prices and go for best value

You can buy your LCD TV online, or in-store. The advantages of online shopping include not having to leave home, having a wide array of online stores to choose from, and having your LCD delivered right to your door. I would first check prices at the big discount stores — Cosco, Sam’s, Amazon. You may be able to find online discount coupons.

Remember that prices in bricks-and-mortar stores are not the same as online prices. You many find special deals, promotions and in-store coupons. And you do not have to pay shipping and handling. But you do have to drive, perhaps to several stores.

Final tip

Compare manufacturers’ warranties. Consider purchasing an Extended Warranty. A LCD HDTV is a complex electronic product. Although manufacturers are improving the quality of LCD TVs and reducing manufacturing defects, the possibility remains (however remote) that the one you get will be faulty, or will develop a problem down the road.

For a large-screen LCD HDTV, consider the 55-inch VIZIO XVT553SV HDTV. It provides the best value for your money. I believe it is the best new LCD HDTV available today. It comes with Internet Apps so you can easily view Internet streaming movies, TV shows, music, the latest news, sports and weather. For a list of available apps, visit VIZIO Internet Apps.