I keep saying we have to evaluate numerical claims, each and everyone of them. It's not just politicians who manipulate us; businesses are not beneath cheap tricks either.
Wired/Gizmodo helps us interpret TV specs here.
It's hard to judge who's right unless you're an expert but several general principles are well worth noting:
- Bigger numbers are not always better; the number may be meaningless. A great example of this is when the phone manufacturers pitch ever higher frequency bands (this is just like setting your radio dial in different positions; what's for sure is that higher frequency uses more power.)
- The limiting factor may not be the piece of equipment you're buying. Even if your TV can do something, you may be limited by the media you are watching, or by related equipment like your audio setup.
- The reason for a better experience may be something other than what the manufacturer claims, and much less convincing. For example, your higher-frequency-band cordless phone may indeed provide better reception, but that is likely because you are one of the first to shift to a new frequency band; wait until that band gets congested.
- The definition of a metric matters a lot. Having an industry standard helps.
- The specs are written to cater to every wish. Know what you care for, and ignore other factors. Others may want an ultra-thin TV but how much does thickness matter to you?
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