(ARA) - Long gone are the days when TVs were a "one size fits all" proposition, when all you really wanted was the right size box for your living room: a picture tube TV with an unassuming appearance, only matched by its archaic remote controller. Today, the game has changed, and the choices of flat-panel HDTVs are almost as diverse as the viewing audience.
With so many options available, how do you choose the TV that fits your needs, personal interests and living space? Often, viewers' personalities and habits say a lot about what type of TV is best suited for their lives. You can help refine your search for the right TV by identifying your "TV persona."
The TV experts at LG offer some insight into five TV-watching personality types, and some tips for choosing a product that matches your personality:
1. The Videophile
A nice picture and decent sound isn't going to do it for the videophile. These technological perfectionists pay close attention to details and optimal viewing conditions. Videophiles want the best picture and audio quality possible, including a full backlit LED array that delivers a brighter, smoother, cleaner picture. They want a refresh rate that virtually eliminates motion blur and delivers crystal clear images. Like a new car they're most likely to show-off their shiny "rims," or supplementary sound system, too - at least a soundbar, but most often a powerful home theater system that blows the windows out of any living room.
2. The Family Man/Woman
This consumer desires a high-end experience at an affordable price. Other monetary considerations - like mortgages, day care costs and family vacations - inspire them to seek the most bang for their buck when it comes to their TVs. They also need to please multiple viewers with content that pleases all ages - from kids that watch cartoons to teenagers that want to get their video "game on" and parents that just want to kick back and enjoy a movie. They need a TV with options, one that offers 3D and Internet-connected "Smart TV," like LG's LM6700. With six pairs of theater-like, flicker-free 3D glasses that require no batteries or recharging, outfitting the entire family is easy and inexpensive. Built-in Smart TV capability affords simple access to limitless content, including movies, TV shows, songs, live games, apps and personal video.
3. The Bachelor/Sports Fan
With fewer responsibilities, the single-person viewer often has a little bit more free cash and doesn't mind spending a little extra on a big purchase. These viewers seek step-up- picture quality and faster refresh rates that helps them to view sports, video games and high-speed action with less motion blur. They're also not afraid to splurge on all the extras, such as Smart TV, 3D functionality and built-in Wi-Fi and demand a sleek, aesthetically pleasing package that looks high end.
4. The Internet Junkie/Multitasker
Google TV will win the heart of this type of consumer, who enjoys Web surfing for information and uses a variety of streaming services. These technology devotees demand a TV that offers a dual-core processor that provides improved streaming and picture quality when streaming online content or browsing the Web with its Google Chrome browser. They like familiarity and want the same user experience on their phones, tablets and now their TV. They also crave the kind of user-friendly navigation capabilities provided by LG's gesture-based Magic Remote with Qwerty keyboard. Like an air mouse, it has point/click, a scrolling wheel and the ease of a keyboard, not to mention voice recognition, overall a familiar experience for computer lovers.
5. The Recent Grad/First-timer
These consumers have just finished college, started their first professional job and are looking for just the basics for their first home. A standard LCD or plasma TV can give them the biggest screen for less money. Bells and whistles and aesthetics take a back seat to solid picture quality.
With a little research and a firm understanding of your TV persona, you can find the right television to fit your needs, budget and lifestyle.