How to find the best Gaming LCD HD TV set

Each and every one of the current generation of console gaming systems will benefit from an HD TV set. Though both the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360 can utilise their High Definition capabilities and output images at full HD resolutions of 1080p, even Nintendo`s modestly powered Wii looks better when you use a composite video output rather than the component option. However, it is not simply a case of buying any HD TV set that you see for a low price and assuming it will do a good job of displaying the latest games as they were intended. This can especially be the case if you intend on using your HD TV set for PC use as well as gaming.

In this guide we will show you how to find the best HD TV set for gaming.

Technical Capabilities

The first thing you will need to consider is the resolution which the TV is capable of displaying. Since both the PS3 and 360 can output at 1080p you will ideally want to look for a television which is compatible with a full HD signal. The higher the resolution, the crisper and more defined the image and the more immersive the overall gaming experience will be.

Secondly you will need to consider both the refresh rate and the response time of which the HD TVs you are looking at are capable. Both refresh rate and response time will impact the way in which the image is displayed. Whilst films and TV shows are shot at between 24-30 frames per second, most games run at 60fps in order to provide a smooth visual experience. Without getting too technical about it, this is because fast movement captured on film with a camera will result in two slightly blurred frames. When these frames are run together the human eye sees smooth motion. To recreate smooth motion as opposed to jumpy motion in a virtual game world a higher frame rate is necessary. If you purchase an HD TV with an inadequate response time you will experience ghosting and blurring of the image which will spoil any game. The most expensive HD TVs are usually equipped with response times of less than 5-8 milliseconds and some have refresh rates of up to 200Hz.

The final consideration is the image quality which your HD TV can offer. The latest games can display millions of subtle colours and stunning vistas that are spoiled considerably if the television through which they are being displayed has an inadequate colour rendering engine or poor quality image reproduction. Many manufacturers will have a gaming mode which you can turn on with a few button presses. This mode, used by Samsung and others, will usually increase the response time and adjust the audio and colour settings to compliment the situations encountered in modern, high definition games.

Inputs and Connectivity

Gaming in HD requires the right kind of connectivity. Both the PS3 and 360 require HDMI inputs and component cables can be found for both the 360 and the Wii. HDMI gives you the best HD gaming performance, but if you have multiple HDMI devices you may need to buy a HD TV with multiple HDMI inputs to avoid having to constantly swap between various devices. Some HD TVs are also suitable for use with PCs and as such need to appeal even more to the hardcore element of gaming. HD TVs frequently include analogue inputs for PCs via D-SUB, but many new graphics cards will feature HDMI outputs as well. Another important consideration for gaming HD TVs is the audio inputs and outputs. Most modern games come with surround sound built in, so you will of course need a television and an audio system capable of delivering the full audio visual impact on offer.

HDTVs vs PC Monitors

If you are a PC gamer looking to buy a new display to try out with your shiny new gaming machine then you may be attracted by the lure of an HDTV. We have looked briefly at HD TVs and their use for PC gaming thanks to suitable inputs above. The question of whether an HDTV is right for PC users deserves to be more thoroughly addressed. The main issue here is one of cost versus screen size. You can purchase full HD PC monitors for less than £200 and there are even 30 inch monitors available from the likes of Dell and Apple with higher native resolutions than 1080p. The problem with such high-end computer monitors is that they require a very beefy set-up in order to push the pixels necessary to get the most out of them, especially when gaming. Unless you have a limitless budget, large PC monitors will only have you playing in lower, non-native resolutions.

The largest computer monitors will also be many times more expensive than a comparably sized HD TV. As such if you want a large screen to use with your PC you might want to consider a 32″ HD TV. There are many manufacturers who now offer full HD 32″ TVs which would serve you well if you are a PC gamer. The benefits go beyond the amount of screen you will get for your money. HD TVs also pack in many more useful functions than standalone PC monitors. PC monitors will usually have just a D-SUB and a DVI-D input, but with an HD TV you can plug in your aerial, all of your consoles and your DVD player as well as your PC. Consequently an HD TV with a decent resolution is the perfect all-in-one gaming solution. You will not be able to find a display that will allow you to play games on multiple platforms in high resolution, watch movies and digital TV for as little money as an HD TV set.

Additional Benefits of Gaming on HD TVs

Aside from the image quality and audio benefits of HD TVs, it is the sheer size and variety available that makes them great for gaming. For example the Sony 46W5500 will give you nearly 120cm of gaming goodness to display in your living room. You need never sit squinting at a dull CRT TV set again, wondering why you spent so much on a console that cannot perform at its best without an HD TV to back it up.

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