subject: Need a new TV and don't want to spend a fortune? [print this page] If you're looking for a new TV, you really don't need to spend a lot. If you shop around, you can find good TVs, which are actually pretty cheap. You can also save yourself paying more than you need to get what you want. You can get a good set like aSamsung LCD TV quickly, at a good price.
Shopping for a TV
The easiest way to find a good deal is to compare prices, and by far the best way to do that is online. Online shopping is efficient, and a lot quicker than roaming the showrooms trying to find a bargain. It's also a way of giving yourself time to check out the features of the TVs, and do some quality control on your buying.
The natural temptation for buying anything is to start from the bottom of the price range. That doesn't work with TVs, because the higher prices are the ones with the best features. It's best to check out the more expensive models, then go downscale and see which of the cheaper sets has all of those features.
With the top name brands ofLCD TV, the range of features is pretty reliable. The smaller, cheaper sets in these brands may not have some things, but that's mainly because they're smaller, and they have most of the other features.
If you compare the generic "Brand X" TVs, you'll see a very different story. Most of these sets are pretty basic. They're not very highly developed, and are really low on additional features.
This is another reason for shopping online first: In store, you don't really have the time to read all the features, or make effective comparisons. Online, you can see which set is better, and make better informed decisions.
Getting a good deal
The other advantage in shopping online is you can also find package deals which can be very good buying. You can also ask questions more effectively, without the in store distractions and having to try to find someone to ask. This is a great way of finding out what sort of deals are available in a hurry, because the inquiries people are all sales people, and know about everything in stock, particularly these packages.
Sticking to your budget
The big shopping expeditions are fun, but when you're really trying to save money, let's face it, you can come back with most of the store as well. You save money, by definition, by just sticking to single orders online.
A bit of patience goes a long way when you're shopping. There's no need to put any stress on the credit card:
Decide your price range: Try to pinpoint a figure in the middle price ranges, because these are the real price bandwidths.
Decide which TVs you prefer: Pick one or two, so you have a choice if required.
Ask about packages or deals: A phone call can score you a very good deal.
Now you've got your TV, at the price you wanted, and maybe a lot more as well.
