Liquid crystal displays (LCDs) have been used for years in consumer electronics. Arguably the most popular incarnation of this technology is computer monitors for laptop computers, but LCD is also used in many portable electronics items that have video displays. The LCD technology is also becoming increasingly popular in televisions, especially as the prices continue to come down.

When purchasing a large screen TV, there are several options from which to choose. You could opt for a traditional rear-projection television, but a significant drawback is the amount of space that it takes up. As an alternative, you may want to consider LCD projection TVs.

LCD projection TVs are affordable and offer the same picture quality and high levels of brightness that you would expect from an LCD monitor. LCD projection TVs provide an intermediary between flat panel displays and rear projection televisions, as they take up much less space than old televisions. They are not, however, thin enough to be hung on a wall like an LCD flat panel television. If you want to purchase a cheap LCD TV and are not interested in mounting it on a wall, LCD projection TVs are a great value for the high picture quality they deliver.

Flat panel televisions are increasing in popularity as more people want their televisions to blend seamlessly into their home decorating scheme. When choosing between plasma TVs and LCD TVs, it is important to note that LCD televisions consume less electricity--and as a result, also generate less heat. Even better, cheap LCD flat panel TVs may be just around the corner--as technology continues to improve and manufacturing costs decline, consumers will start to reap the benefits.