Comparing Modern 250 LCD TVs to 1000 LCD TVs from 2005
When considering a 250 LCD TV from today and comparing it to a 1000 LCD TV from 2005, several factors come into play, including price, quality, and technological advancements.
Price Discrepancies Due to Geo-Pricing
Australia, like many other regions, often suffers from geo-pricing—where products cost more in regions like Australia due to smaller markets and higher shipping costs. For instance, a 55-inch LCD TV from Kogan, a popular Australian electronics retailer, can be purchased for around AU1000 including delivery and a five-year extended warranty. As of the latest price check, the current recommended retail price is AU499. Adding delivery with insurance and an extended warranty pushes the total to AU682.10. Without the extended warranty, the price drops significantly, providing more room for budgeting.
Advancements in Display Technology
The technological advancements in display technology over the past decade have been remarkable. Even a 250 LCD TV from today, though it may look less expensive and less advanced, would likely offer superior performance compared to a 1000 LCD TV from 2005. The new TV would be brighter, sharper, and have better contrast. Additionally, weight is a factor; many modern 250 LCD TVs are significantly lighter, making installation and movement easier.
Quality Differences
Quality differences are significant when comparing modern LCD TVs to their older counterparts. For example, back in 2012, such a TV could be acquired for about AU1000, whereas a Kogan 55-inch model is now available for AU499, with various add-ons bringing the total cost closer to AU682.10. Price disparities arise due to improvements in technology and reductions in cost as economies of scale take effect.
User Experience and Expectations
Consumer expectations and experiences can vary widely based on the era in which they purchased their TV. In 2005, a 250 LCD TV in the 30-40 inch range might have been the top of the line. However, my tenants purchased a similar model, and while they were satisfied, I, as a landlord, was not. The image quality was prone to a CGI-like appearance, making it unacceptable for viewing news or other content that requires high visual fidelity. Investing in a higher-quality, smaller 20-inch model would have provided a superior viewing experience.
Modern Advancements vs. Cost
Modern advancements in LCD TVs have been impressive, with visible improvements in picture quality, faster response times, and more features such as smart TV capabilities and multiple HDMI inputs. These features make modern TVs not only superior in terms of display but also more versatile and convenient to use.
Value for Money
Purchasing from retailers known for maintaining high standards, such as Kogan, ensures that one is getting a quality product. Instead of opting for cheaper brands, it might be better to spend a bit more and get a well-established brand that meets the consumer's expectations in terms of reliability and performance. For instance, replacing a circa 2003 50-inch 1080p plasma TV that cost about AU5000 with a newer model could yield better results in terms of both quality and cost-effectiveness. Another example is an upgrade from a 2005 50-inch plasma to a modern 200-inch plasma, which not only improves the viewing experience but also costs less than a service call to repair the older model.