What should I buy, a desktop monitor or a tv?

The TV has a built-in tuner that can pick up digital and analog UHF/VHF television signals, as well as Y/C-type analog video signals (e.g. composite video, S-video). As such, they tend to be significantly more expensive than similarly-sized monitors. Monitors have one purpose and one purpose only: display whatever is being input. TVs however tune a signal, then convert it to a usable format to then be displayed, as well as output audio.

Most LCD TVs in that size range are 720p, with resolutions typically 1366x768, sometimes 1440x900. Almost all have at least one HDMI input, and many have VGA input as well. There are a few 1080p models with 1920x1080 resolution, but these are significantly more expensive (by the way, the higher resolution is moot when watching TV programs). Also, the TVs in general tend to have slightly slower response times, though better contrast.

Keep in mind that 19" widescreen LCD monitors tend to have resolutions of about 1440x900, 20-22" monitors in the range of 1680x1050, and 23" and bigger are typically 1080p (1920x1080 or 1920x1200).

If you plan on using it only as a monitor for your PC, a dedicated monitor is the way to go; you will maximize performance that way and probably only pay half or two-thirds as much. But if you plan on using it to watch TV programs or connect other devices, such as game consoles or DVD players, then a TV may be the better option.

Choose a television.

I have been using a Sony LCD. I did a lot of research about this same subject and I don't regret one bit about my decision. I have been using this setup for three years now, and will NEVER use a computer monitor again.

My current setup is that I have desktop computer plugged into it, and my Xbox 360; I rarely watch regular television any longer, but I do have it plugged into my desktop (Windows Media Center PC) so I can record something if I choose.

Difference between LCD & Plasma.

If your main use will be with a computer, then LCD is the best choice - the picture quality will be great and renders images properly without any issues.

If you plan to use it mostly for television, then I would recommend Plasma, for it handles fast moving objects much better without pixalation, such as closeups of car chases in action movies or sports such as football or basketball.

If you buy a modern, i.e. LCD; TV it will undoubtedly have a VGA/PC input and as such could be used for both purposes.

A TV is basiclaly a monitor with additional electronics to allow it to decode/display a UHF TV signal.

There are monitors that can be used as both...syncmaster by samsung is one...i have several and the picture is good

entire concern of fee truly... television = very own opinion extra effective decision you get your exhibit screen when you have hooked it up, + television, yet is extra high priced. exhibit screen = in basic terms a exhibit screen... low priced.