Plasma versus projection: Which big-screen HDTV to choose?

David Katzmaier, Senior Editor November 3, 2008

It's an established fact that rear-projection is on the decline compared with flat-panel plasma and LCD, but it's also undeniable that in the really-big-screen arena, circa 60 inches, RPTV still has legs. If you're in that sizable arena yourself, and have a big basement or den to fill with plenty of screen, you'll basically be choosing between plasma and rear-projection.

Below you'll find examples of each, and right off the bat, the big difference becomes clear: Price. Plasma still commands a hefty premium over RPTV at very large screen sizes, so the question arises: Is it worth it? For most shoppers on budgets, our answer is "No."

Our favorite big-screen plasma, the 58-inch Panasonic TH-58PZ800U, delivers a better picture than our favorite rear-projector, Samsung's HL61A750. It has deeper black levels and better screen uniformity and off-angle performance, and, of course, it is flat, not fat. But the Samsung has a great picture in its own right, and for most viewers that's good enough, especially when you consider the savings. We also looked at one of Samsung's own gargantuan plasmas, the 63-inch PN63A760. While it's loaded with plenty of features, it couldn't match the same deep black levels as the Panasonic. The Mitsubishi and LG represent less-expensive options compared with the others, with correspondingly less-impressive picture quality, and in the end, the final buying decision is yours.

More Resources

Plasma TV explained,

Rear-projection TV explained,

Best HDTVs (55 inches and above),

CNET's HDTV World