LCD TVs: Now's the time to grab a bargain

Round-up by: Guy Cocker

Last updated: 15 May 2005

The flat-screen era is finally becoming a reality as LCDs become more affordable and break the magic sub-£1,000 barrier. They also improve dramatically with each successive generation. So while we're still a few years off a true LCD bargain, these screens don't cost much more than an equivalent CRT. If you're geared up for high definition, then you'll have to pay for a compatible screen, but if you're after something for the bedroom, one of these could be the ideal solution.

Akai's LM-H30CJSA stormed in as the UK's cheapest 30-inch LCD, and by a long way as well. Its picture performance is good, it has component inputs and it's easy to use. However, it's no style icon and has next to no features. If you're going to be watching movies using the component inputs, then you're getting a real bargain, but otherwise you get what you pay for.

Despite coming from a monitor manufacturer, the Relisys RLT2000 is a suprisingly poor PC display thanks to its low resolution. However, that same weakness means it doesn't show off the flaws of analogue TV, and it has component inputs as well -- excellent for the price. The screen's glossy finish makes it look good as long as you keep it away from the window, and the overall design is classy.

Thomson's 32LB120S4U is another LCD from the French giant. Again, it's not high-definition compatible, so it may disappoint you in the long term, but its design is elegant and it offers a decent picture, even if it is lacking in contrast. Expect to find a good deal on it if you're willing to shop around.

Viewsonic is always a company to watch when it comes to LCDs. The company has been pioneering faster response times for a while and it manages to do it to a budget. This is the nicest looking of all the televisions here and the picture quality is generally good. The contrast level is poor and the speakers lack bass, but bear in mind the low price. Otherwise it's an excellent purchase.