Plasma TVs were popular for large, vivid displays with deep blacks and wide viewing angles. Major manufacturers stopped making plasmas by the mid-2010s, so any cheap plasma today will be used or refurbished. If you consider one, inspect for burn-in, test inputs and picture uniformity, and remember most lack modern features like 4K and HDR. For new budget large screens, LED/LCD and OLED offer the contemporary choices - prioritize resolution, HDR support and compatible ports.

A quick history and why plasmas mattered

Plasma televisions were prized for large, flat screens and vivid, uniform images. In the 2000s they became a popular, relatively affordable way to get a 42"-65" (and larger) display for a living room or home theater. Plasmas produced deep blacks, wide viewing angles and smooth motion that many viewers preferred for movies and sports.

Why plasma disappeared from new-product lines

Major manufacturers stopped producing plasma TVs by the mid-2010s as LED/LCD and OLED technologies advanced. Those newer panels offered higher peak brightness, lower power use and easier integration with thin, energy-efficient designs. Today you won't find new plasma models from mainstream brands; any plasmas available are used or refurbished units.

If you're shopping for a used or cheap plasma

Buying a secondhand plasma can still make sense if you value its picture characteristics and can verify the set's condition. Key checks:
  • Inspect for image retention or burn-in, especially on sets that displayed static logos for long periods.
  • Confirm screen uniformity and that brightness hasn't degraded noticeably.
  • Test all HDMI and legacy inputs and the remote functions.
  • Ask about firmware updates and how the set was used (hours per day).
Note that most plasmas lack modern features such as HDR, wide color gamut standards, and native 4K resolution. Expect 720p or 1080p panels unless the set is a rare later model.

Modern alternatives to consider

If you want a new, inexpensive large-screen TV, LED/LCD sets (with full HD or 4K) dominate the market. OLED offers the closest modern equivalent to plasma for deep blacks and wide viewing angles, but generally at higher cost. When comparing options, prioritize resolution (1080p vs 4K), HDR support (HDR10/Dolby Vision), refresh rate, smart-platform features, and input/port count (HDMI 2.0/2.1 for newer devices).

Mounting and placement

Plasma sets were heavier than comparable LCDs, so choose a mount rated for the TV's weight. Wall-mount options remain the same: fixed, tilt and articulating (extendable). Allow airflow behind the set and avoid enclosure that traps heat - plasmas can run warmer than many LED sets.

Final checklist for a budget large-screen buy

  • Decide whether you need a new set (LED/OLED) or will accept a used plasma.
  • For used plasmas: inspect for burn-in, test inputs and picture uniformity, confirm seller history.
  • For new TVs: prioritize 4K and HDR support, adequate ports, and a current smart OS.
Buying a large-screen TV is more complex than it was a generation ago, but clarifying whether you want the specific look of a plasma or the conveniences of modern LED/OLED will narrow good options quickly.

FAQs about Cheap Plasma Televisions

Are plasma TVs still made?
No. Major manufacturers ended plasma TV production by the mid-2010s. New plasma models are no longer available; any plasmas on the market are used or refurbished.
Why choose a used plasma over a new LED or OLED?
Some viewers prefer plasma's deep blacks, uniformity and motion handling. A used plasma can be cheaper than a new OLED, but it may lack modern features like 4K, HDR and current smart platforms.
What are the biggest risks when buying a used plasma?
Image retention or burn-in, reduced brightness or uniformity, and potential hardware failure. Always inspect the screen closely and test all inputs.
Do plasmas consume more power than modern TVs?
Generally yes. Plasma panels tend to run warmer and draw more power than contemporary LED/LCD sets. OLEDs can also consume significant power depending on peak brightness and content.
What should I prioritize when buying a new budget large-screen TV?
Focus on 4K resolution, HDR support (HDR10 or Dolby Vision), sufficient HDMI ports (ideally HDMI 2.0/2.1), a current smart TV platform, and a mount rated for the TV's size and weight.

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