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Choosing from the wide variety of HDTV monitors now available on the market may seem like an intimidating task. This guide is designed to simplify the process of selecting a model that best fits your needs.
	Select the aspect ratio you prefer: The traditional (analog) TV screens with which you are familiar have an aspect ratio (ratio of width to height) of 4:3. The "true HDTV" standard includes a considerably wider 16:9 picture that is similar to the proportions of a movie theater screen.

As the director originally intended
The 16:9 aspect ratio is able to display the picture area on the left and right sides of the screen that would otherwise be cut off.

An ever-increasing number of TV and HDTV programs are being produced in the wide screen format, not to mention most recent popular movies on DVD. Because the 16:9 aspect ratio is the HDTV standard moving forward, we highly recommend choosing a monitor with the more elongated screen, even though 4:3 models are widely available.

HDTV vs. HDTV-Ready

TVs labeled as "HDTV-Ready" or "HDTV-Capable" are capable of displaying high definition digital pictures, but require the additional purchase of a set-top box (external digital decoder). HDTV-Ready TVs offer a lower up-front cost, and the purchase of the set-top box can come later (or before). Purchasing the set-top box separately offers the flexibility to select the most up-to-date technology available and the ability to easily upgrade or service this component if additional features become available.

Fully-integrated high definition TVs (HDTVs) do not require the additional purchase of a set-top digital decoder and eliminate the clutter of extra wires and electronic gear. Some newer models are "Cable-Ready" and can be connected to a digital cable wall jack, without an HD cable box.

Planning to receive HDTV programming through a satellite service provider?
It is important to note that most HDTV-integrated models are not satellite-integrated. This means that you are probably better off purchasing a non-integrated HD monitor and purchasing a satellite-enabled HD set-top box that will work with your specific satellite service.

Screen Size and Living Space

Budget limitations aside, you should consider the following when selecting a size for your 16:9 widescreen monitor:

At what distance from the screen do you expect to be watch TV?
The most important consideration is the distance from the screen at which you expect to be seated. A general rule of thumb is that the diagonal screen size you choose should be between one third and one half times the expected seating distance. Please refer to the chart below:

Ideal viewing distance for selected screen sizes
Diagonal screen size	Min. Distance (feet)	Max. Distance (feet)
26"	4	7
32"	5	8
42"	6	10
50"	7	12
55"	8	14
60"	9	15
65"	10	16

If the TV is too large for a seating area, the scanning lines and pixelation will be overly apparent, creating an unpleasant effect.

Do you usually watch TV alone or with a large group of friends?
The area of your room which offers everyone a good view will vary, depending on the model and TV type. A screen size that fills a larger area of your field of view will provide a more "immersive" experience.

Choosing a type of Monitor

While your budget and space considerations will play an important role in your selection, you will need to choose from the principal monitor technologies described below.


		Choose your HDTV monitor and buy today!

Your Budget

Here's what you can expect to find in your price range:

Price range:

What you can expect to find:

(Ranges for widescreen models)

Monitor Type:

Diagonal Screen Size:

Under $1,000

Direct View:

Up to 30"

$1,000 to $1,500

LCD:	Up to 22"
Direct View:	Up to 34"
Rear Projection:	Up to 55"

$1,500 to $2,000

LCD:	Up to 30"
Direct View:	Up to 36"
Rear Projection:	Up to 65"
DLP:	Up to 55"

$2,000 to $3,500

LCD:	Up to 30"
Direct View:	Up to 36"
Rear Projection:	Up to 65"
DLP:	Up to 55"

Over $3,500

LCD:	Up to 70"
DLP:	All sizes,
LCOS:	All sizes,
Plasma:	Up to 64"