You may not realize it, but you probably use an LCD device every day. If you own a laptop computer, a microwave oven, a modern thermometer, a CD player, or a digital watch, all these are LCD technology. LCD stands for "liquid crystal display." Look at the numbers displayed on your microwave oven; do you see how crisp and clear they are? How about the dials and numbers on your digital watch? LCD technology beats the traditional cathode ray tube and projection TVs in clarity, resolution and sharpness. Not only is it virtually impossible to mount a clunky cathode ray tube TV on your wall, but tubes wear out quickly and the picture quality of projection TVs is notoriously poor.

For home entertainment purposes, most people are especially interested in LCD televisions. When LCD technology was first introduced, the prices of these TVs were typically very high. But in the past few years, LCD TV prices have dropped as the technology became widespread and affordable. Try this simple experiment: go to a large electronics store and ask the sales staff to show you an LCD TV and then a traditional cathode ray tube TV (if they even have one!). You'll notice the picture superiority of the LCD immediately. Plus, LCD TVs are thinner, lighter, and use less power than cathode ray TVs. LCD TVs come in high definition (HD) compatible models that create an even sharper image, in thin, flat panel models, and widescreen models. Each type of these LCD TVs have specific advantages. For example, if you want an LCD TV in your bedroom but don't have a lot of wall space, a flat panel model will serve you well. But in your living room, you'll most likely want a TV that has high definition and a wide screen to set up your home theater components.

When you decide to buy an LCD TV you have many models, sizes, and pricing options to choose from. Consumer guides and customer reviews rate the "best of 2008" LCD TVs as:

- The Samsung 52-inch 1080p HD TV
- The Sony Bravia 52-inch 1080p HD TV
- The Panasonic 50-inch 1080p HD TV
- The Sharp Aquos 42-inch 1080p HD TV
- The Samsung 32-inch 720p HD TV

You can find the LCD TV that meets all your space requirements, including 19, 37, 46, 61 and 65-inch TVs. You can also find great prices on LCD TVs locally or on-line. One thing is certain: cathode ray tube televisions are rapidly becoming obsolete in comparison to LCD HD TVs. Projection TVs are no longer manufactured. Also, LCD technology tends to be cheaper than plasma technology for televisions and computer monitors. The best buying strategy is to specify what kind of equipment you need, the size of the TV you need, and what type of TV system you can afford.