Top Picks for Flat Screen TVs

June 22, 2006 — -- As if you needed more motivation to go out and buy a flat screen TV, the World Cup just added one more reason for sports fans.

"Big sporting events bring on big screen fever," said "Good Morning America" technology contributor Becky Worley. "The big questions for folks though is can they afford it?"

She said that you might be surprised at the costs and offered her picks for the best flat screen TVs that wouldn't bust your budget -- and those that would.

VIZIO 50" Plasma Flat Screen, $1,999.99
This is the first 50-inch HD Plasma that sells for under $2,000, opening up the market to people who previously thought they couldn't get a big HD Plasma on a budget.

Philips Full Surround Ambilight 42" LCD, $3,999
The lamplight technology puts a light backward on either a canvas that Philips provides or a white wall if you are hanging it. You see a richer picture and if you bring the room lights up, it means less contrast for your eyes.

Sharp Aquos 40" LCD Flat Screen, $3,199.99
"This is really a neat concept for people who previously thought, 'OK, these are only for monitors,' and if they were worried about burn-in these don't get burn-in," Worley said. "They're usually a little smaller and a little more expensive."

Panasonic 103" Plasma Flat Screen
This is the biggest Plasma to date, and will be available in December. The price has not yet been set, but rumors put it in the tens of thousands of dollars.