It was not too long ago that we were arguing the case for and against LCD and plasma televisions. And though LCD TV eventually came out the victor, due to its superior all round function and practicality, its crown is now under threat. That this threat comes from its sibling the LED television, is all the more intriguing.

It is not at all surprising that this change is driven by the major players in the electronics, and most certainly monitor and TV screen industry. However, a quick look at the new technology demonstrates that they are certainly a step forward; rather than simply be a way to get the consumer to part with more cash.

In essence, an LED television is just the same as the LCD that is probably sitting in your lounge right now. The difference is regards how the light emitting diodes, (LED), send the light to the screen. This is of course very complex, but in layman terms relies on backlit or sidelit, (edge), technology.

Having the lights set up in this way allows for greater control of the picture; lights can be dimmed and brightened independently of their neighbours; creating a richer content and feel and most important of all, creating true image black scale; they key to picture quality.

This is all fantastic of course, but what are the downsides to LED television technology? Increased power? Short Lifespan? Surprisingly, the opposite of each of these is true. The technology use less energy and, just as importantly uses this energy well with minimal wastage, which in itself drives up how long the TV itself will last for. Indeed, estimates suggest they could go on indefinitely if looked after well.

They are also a great deal thinner than there predecessors. Whilst regular LCD TVs are very slim; at just mere inches, an LED television will be measured with a depth given in millimetres. Indeed, the leading manufacturers are producing units that are a mere 6mm in depth.

Okay, this all sounds excellent but of course, it isn’t all good news. Whilst no limitations exist to the operation of an LED television, there is a limitation regards affordability. It is really no different to the large prices that LCD and most particularly plasmas were tagged with though.

The benefits then are quite significant with this new technology; better pictures, better lighting; better control, and all whilst having a positive impact on the environment. Indeed, the only downside remains the price.

But these prices will fall as demand picks up and we really recognize the benefits of LED television technology, (and as newer technologies come on line of course!)

Wayne Torres writes about samsung led tv and watch hd tv online