There are four main types of HDTVs:

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The Basics

Plasma
Pros: Very large screens available; vibrant color quality can't be beat
Cons: Screen brightness can dim over time; fragile; expensive

LCD
Pros: Thinnest and lightest of all TVs
Cons: Max size is limited for now; very expensive; can create ghosting in action scenes

Projection
Pros: Cheaper than comparably sized flat-panels
Cons: Thick and heavy; lamps burn out and are pricey

CRT
Pros: Bargain-basement prices; best overall picture
Cons: Enormous at large sizes; limited maximum screen size; hogs power; yesterday's technology

What Matters Most

Screen Size
You won't see the benefits of HDTV if you sit too far away; at 10 feet you need at least a 35-inch set.

Inputs
HDMI offers a simple, all-digital connection for both video and audio in a single cable.

Resolution
720p and 1080i are the two major HD standards; but the high-end 1080p is even better.

Installation
Bring a friend; CRTs and larger projection TVs are huge and can weigh hundreds of pounds. Fancy wall-mount kits for LCDs and plasmas usually cost extra.

-http: //tech.yahoo.com/qg/quick-guide-to-hdtv/quickguide