Best Cheap 55" HDTV - LCD, LED, Plasma 2012

The greatest part about improvements in technology is that you no longer have to spend a boat load of money in order to get a great HDTV. When HDTVs first came out you could expect to spend between $3000-$6000 for a TV that is not nearly as nice as the ones I'm going to show you now for a fraction of the price.

Now you can purchase a great TV in the 32, 42, or 55 inch category for well under $1,000! All of these TVs come with at least a 1 year manufacturer's warranty and are easily upgradeable to 3 or 4 year service plans! Hopefully, your TV will last much longer than this, but if it doesn't, then you'll probably be looking for a new TV around that time anyway. Technology is ever changing and thanks to consumer demand it's becoming more and more affordable for everyone.

HDTV Size Guide

In the past when TVs weren't as clear having a big TV meant that you needed to sit super far away in order to not be annoyed with the easily visible pixalation. With New HDTVs the rule is that you can sit anywhere from 1.5 to 3 times (in inches) the screen size to have have the best experience.

So let's say that your couch is 120 inches (10 feet) away from the TV. This would mean that your TV should be anywhere from 40-80 (3*40 or 1.5*80) inches for the best viewing experience.

72 Inches (6 feet) ? - Between 26 Inches and 46 Inches.

You've probably seen these numbers if you've looked around for an HDTV

720p vs. 1080p HDTV

The higher this number the higher the high definition resolution is for your TV set. One interesting thing for you to take into consideration in choosing whether you want a 720p or 1080p television is that cable and satellite only broadcast in 720p. This means that even if you wanted a better picture you couldn't (for t.v.). If you are using this TV for a exercise room, bedroom, or somewhere where you may not be watching movies, then 720p is more than adequate, and in some instances you may not even notice the difference.

60, 120, or 240hz Refresh Rate

What is refresh rate? Basically the higher the hertz of your refresh rate the less motion blur you will have in your t.v. I currently have all 3 and have a very difficult time distinguishing between the 120 and 240 hz. Even the HDTV I have with 60 hz looks incredible. Again if you are just using this TV for casual use, or don't need the top of the line technology, then save money and go for 60 or 120hz.

I have written extensively about the best cheap 32 inch HDTV here. This is a general summary, but for additional information you can read that hub.

For 720p sets go for the LG32LD350 or the Vizio e320VA both of which are below $300 right now. Add a warranty for under $50 to make sure your TV lasts.

For 1080p and 60hz get the LG32LD450. For 120Hz the LG32LE5300 can't be beat at under $450.

*List price Purchasing tip - The list price is not the actual price you pay. Many times after clicking into amazon you can find a cheaper price by seeing the price in your cart or using one of their wholesalers.

I hope you've enjoyed this hub on the best cheap 55 Inch HDTVs. I love writing about anything electronics or technology related, but sometimes I'll miss a product that I should feature. Whether you just enjoyed the article or want to see another product that you found featured, leave a comment below.

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