There are a lot of options for high definition (HD) displays; however, not all models offer full high definition capabilities. Some HD displays only improve the look of standard definition video and some offer 720p but not 1080p support.

This page provides a list of general pros and cons regarding the different display technologies.

If you already own an HDTV, you can connect it to your high-definition capable Windows XP-based computer to enjoy Windows Media High Definition Video (WMV HD) entertainment today. To learn how, see Connect Your TV to Your PC.


Pros and Cons of Different High Definition Display Technologies

Direct-View CRT

These displays use traditional TV technology, beaming electrons directly onto the back of a glass tube. They are also available in rear projection, which project images from a cathode-ray tube onto the back of a translucent screen. Pros: Very bright, great black, great color, good price and performance, and good in high ambient light. Available in 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios. Cons: Small image size (only about 30 inches wide maximum); not all displays provide full high definition resolution or 1080p. Typical Price Range: $1,500–$3,000

Plasma

These displays are thin units that use small pockets of gas. Pros: Work well with ambient light, very bright, good black, and good color. Flat and stylish—only a few inches deep. When they are custom installed, they look great even when turned off. Cons: More expensive than direct-view or rear-projection sets for size and picture quality; some do not provide full high definition resolution or 1080p. Typical Price Range: $4,500–$22,000

Front Projection – DLP

These displays are part of a new digital system that uses the digital light processing technology of Texas Instruments. Pros: Large image size (72 inches–120 inches wide). Very bright, good blacks, and good color. Projector is compact and setup is easy. Takes no floor space. Cons: Fixed resolution. Complete light control preferred, preferably with dark walls. Typical Price Range: $3,500–$5,200

Front Projection – LCD

These displays are part of a new digital system that uses micro liquid crystal panels. Also available in flat panel units. Pros: Large image size (60 inches–100 inches wide). Reasonable cost. Projector is compact and setup is easy. Takes no floor space. Cons: Fixed resolution, black not as good as DLP, and overall picture not as good as the best DLPs. Complete light control preferred, preferably with dark walls. Typical Price Range: $700–$10,000

LCoS

These displays are based on an emerging technology that uses liquid crystal on silicon. Pros: Thinner units and much better image quality than CRT rear projection. Cons: Limited availability. Typical Price Range: Not available

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