Who is still watching a CRT TV?

[Mr Chin Stubble]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

[Slee_stack]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

Utilities aren't magical.  Someone pays them (or steals them).

You have the choice to ignore them, but you can't pretend they are free.

And yes, absolutely get your eyes checked.  If you can't tell the difference between finer resolutions, you might have some degeneration.  There could be an easy/cheap fix.  For instance, some people don't know they are color blind until forced into a test.  Nothing to be ashamed of.

[MilesTeg]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

If you can't tell a difference in image quality between 480i, 720p and 1080p, then yes, you need to see an eye doc. The difference is significant. Again, assuming you have a proper video source and and a few other variables. If you can see a difference, but don't think it's enough to warrant buying a higher resolution screen, that's a different story.

[GuitarStv]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

In the video you posted, a wildly out of focus camera shows two monitors.  I don't know what the first video demonstration was, but the video game shown in the second part was Mario Kart Double Dash . . . which was released on the Game Cube.  Game cube games run in 480i.

There's going to be no benefit to viewing standard definition source material on an HDTV.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

Utilities aren't magical.  Someone pays them (or steals them).

You have the choice to ignore them, but you can't pretend they are free.

And yes, absolutely get your eyes checked.  If you can't tell the difference between finer resolutions, you might have some degeneration.  There could be an easy/cheap fix.  For instance, some people don't know they are color blind until forced into a test.  Nothing to be ashamed of.

The point I was making is that there isn't necessarily a "break-even" point in all cases when buying a new thing that costs hundreds of dollars will eventually pay off. Not that there is any cost savings  w/an LCD as already been outlined simply because it's ridiculous to compare a 19inch LCD v. Say a 19in CRT.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

You're telling me that there is that much of a difference that I need to see an eye doc?

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=LCD+or+CRT&adlt=strict&view=detail&mid=703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B703D6A38C1DAC5FD4D7B&FORM=VRDGAR

I also don't pay utilities.

In the video you posted, a wildly out of focus camera shows two monitors.  I don't know what the first video demonstration was, but the video game shown in the second part was Mario Kart Double Dash . . . which was released on the Game Cube.  Game cube games run in 480i.

There's going to be no benefit to viewing standard definition source material on an HDTV.

Ok then you find one that does show it. Since Before I returned my LCD I did the same comparison and it was more or less the same result

[AnswerIs42]

My parents recently upgraded from a 32" Widescreen CRT TV to a forty-something-inch CRT TV they got given from a neighbour. It's a great TV as far as SDTV goes. It cost about £1900 in 2001, and at the time the neighbours got it we were thinking "OMG It's Huge!!!" but these days it looks normal sized.

I've got a 28" Widescreen CRT from 2002 in my bedroom at my place, which I occasionally watch DVD movies on, but not very often.

RGB Scart makes all the difference, I always felt sorry for you guys in the US with crappy composite, and S-Video at a pinch :)

The CRT electricity cost argument is a bit overblown, unless you're watching TV for several hours a day - in which case, FFS turn the damn TV off and do something else!

I do have to give a +1 for getting your eyes tested if you can't tell the difference between real 1080P from a quality source like Blu-ray and standard definition, though. It's night-and-day.

[MilesTeg]

Ok then you find one that does show it. Since Before I returned my LCD I did the same comparison and it was more or less the same result

Did you use a quality HD source (e.g. a blue-ray or HD cable/HD OTA source)? 480i content still looks like 480i content no matter how high a resolution display you have... The difference is not at all subtle, especially side by side. Google "HD vs SD" and look at the images section (assuming you have an HD monitor on your computer/tablet/etc, otherwise you won't see the difference).

[Mr Chin Stubble]

It was. 720 tv and it was a network station... ABC I believe. The crt has a digital tuner and both were picked up with an antenna (indoor).

Look this is already getting too technical. Night and day shouldn't be "well you have to this..." or "well you didn't do that..."

If you're going to argue about latest and greatest there are other boards for that and, I don't believe chasing the latest gadget is really conducive to an early retire board or frugal lifestyle.

I mean really when I was a kid in the 80s one of our TV sets was a BLack and white. Does that need a specific set of circumstances to show the difference?

We're talking about crt TV sets that are readily available for free and show the same garbage shows as the 4K ones or whatever.

Where do you draw the line? Why stop at tv's? Does anyone have any calculations for break even points on fancy new washers compared with the old top loader that Is a fraction of the price of the trendy new ones, but use 5 kilowatts more per wash?Why not a new fridge too? Stainless steel of course. Or a 100 dollar coffee maker? After all it's only 9 cents a cup. How about instead one from a thrift store could be had for 5 bucks and makes the same coffee

[inline five]

It was. 720 tv and it was a network station... ABC I believe. The crt has a digital tuner and both were picked up with an antenna (indoor).

Look this is already getting too technical. Night and day shouldn't be "well you have to this..." or "well you didn't do that..."

If you're going to argue about latest and greatest there are other boards for that and, I don't believe chasing the latest gadget is really conducive to an early retire board or frugal lifestyle.

I mean really when I was a kid in the 80s one of our TV sets was a BLack and white. Does that need a specific set of circumstances to show the difference?

We're talking about crt TV sets that are readily available for free and show the same garbage shows as the 4K ones or whatever.

Where do you draw the line? Why stop at tv's? Does anyone have any calculations for break even points on fancy new washers compared with the old top loader that Is a fraction of the price of the trendy new ones, but use 5 kilowatts more per wash?Why not a new fridge too? Stainless steel of course. Or a 100 dollar coffee maker? After all it's only 9 cents a cup. How about instead one from a thrift store could be had for 5 bucks and makes the same coffee

Just think you could probably retire on $50k if you lived in a van down by the river. And dumpster dived/begged every day for food.

For most people having a 50" TV is something they enjoy using. Its got entertainment value. Plus it looks nice up on the wall. Flat screens are hardly the 'latest gadget', maybe 10 years ago they were.

There's a difference in being frugal and living like you are poor. I've been poor, I wouldn't wish that life on anyone. Very happy to be able to afford a flat screen and watch shows and movies on it. If you enjoy watching the same upgrading to a flat screen really enhances the experience.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

It was. 720 tv and it was a network station... ABC I believe. The crt has a digital tuner and both were picked up with an antenna (indoor).

Look this is already getting too technical. Night and day shouldn't be "well you have to this..." or "well you didn't do that..."

If you're going to argue about latest and greatest there are other boards for that and, I don't believe chasing the latest gadget is really conducive to an early retire board or frugal lifestyle.

I mean really when I was a kid in the 80s one of our TV sets was a BLack and white. Does that need a specific set of circumstances to show the difference?

We're talking about crt TV sets that are readily available for free and show the same garbage shows as the 4K ones or whatever.

Where do you draw the line? Why stop at tv's? Does anyone have any calculations for break even points on fancy new washers compared with the old top loader that Is a fraction of the price of the trendy new ones, but use 5 kilowatts more per wash?Why not a new fridge too? Stainless steel of course. Or a 100 dollar coffee maker? After all it's only 9 cents a cup. How about instead one from a thrift store could be had for 5 bucks and makes the same coffee

Just think you could probably retire on $50k if you lived in a van down by the river. And dumpster dived/begged every day for food.

For most people having a 50" TV is something they enjoy using. Its got entertainment value. Plus it looks nice up on the wall. Flat screens are hardly the 'latest gadget', maybe 10 years ago they were.

There's a difference in being frugal and living like you are poor. I've been poor, I wouldn't wish that life on anyone. Very happy to be able to afford a flat screen and watch shows and movies on it. If you enjoy watching the same upgrading to a flat screen really enhances the experience.

I don't think watching a crt tv is like living as a poor person. And again I'm genuinely curious as this argument could also apply to a lot of other things also. When do you say replace a winter coat? I usually buy items that need replacing/my old one no longer works. And the founder of this site lives on 24k a year with a family of 3. Is that living like a poor person?

[projekt]

I've got a 32" Sony WEGA widescreen HD TV (1080i). It's got an HDMI input, and a true black. That's all I really wanted. It's great for watching films.

Projekt, that is a serious TV (my back aches just thinking about it)! I've considered adding an HDMI widescreen CRT to the collection as a historical footnote, but I'm not sure I want to make that kind of commitment. Not a WEGA mind you, but something in a manageable size, like a 26" diagonal set, though they're not popping up like they used to.

I was motivated to do Starting Strength partly to be able to lift things like that. Alas, it is still very unweildly. I don't remember how I brought it home.

[Daley]

I mean really when I was a kid in the 80s one of our TV sets was a BLack and white.

Likewise. I'll even admit that we had two televisions in the house growing up. Both black and white. The 13" one where the tube worked had a busted speaker, the 18" one where the sound worked had no picture. We had to tune both televisions just to watch anything. Growing up, I literally had no idea the first season of Gilligan's Island was even shot in black and white until there was an uproar about Ted Turner colorizing it a few years back. Nor did I know that the bulk of The Adventures of Superman from the 1950's was actually filmed and syndicated in color. Didn't even have a working color TV in the house until after I hit puberty. Didn't diminish enjoyment of what was watched a lick.

We have a perfectly nice HDMI capable Philips widescreen CRT with a whopping 30" display right now. It works just fine and can even take 1080i input. We bought it for $15 or $20 from Goodwill when the aperture grille started to fail on the old free CRT we had been given and it started to develop discolored hot spots. We don't really use it enough to warrant any sort of upgrade either based solely on electrical usage, and I know this without actually running numbers.

For the most part, television is something designed around the very core concept of dissatisfaction with your own life. One lives vicariously through fictional characters, wanting things and experiences they don't have in their own life, constantly being told that nice stuff will somehow grant them a full and rich life... feeding fears and providing scapegoats for why they're so unhappy that they need to watch the nurturing glow of the idiot box. Real life is terrible, yes... come live inside this little rectangle and give us money to make you happy.

Those experiences growing up helped me to realize that it's the quality of the writing that drives the enjoyment of a story in the medium, not the picture size or detail. Making out Bobby DeNiro's mole hair does not magically improve the quality or the enjoyment of the film Heat, no matter what Frank claims about his 2000" TV.

I say this, by the way, as someone who does watch television. I recognize the irony. Doesn't make it any less true.

Just think you could probably retire on $50k if you lived in a van down by the river. And dumpster dived/begged every day for food.

For most people having a 50" TV is something they enjoy using. Its got entertainment value. Plus it looks nice up on the wall. Flat screens are hardly the 'latest gadget', maybe 10 years ago they were.

There's a difference in being frugal and living like you are poor. I've been poor, I wouldn't wish that life on anyone. Very happy to be able to afford a flat screen and watch shows and movies on it. If you enjoy watching the same upgrading to a flat screen really enhances the experience.

Who is truly the impoverished person here: He who can derive a bit of pleasure in ethereal flotsam with what he already has; or he who allows the size and age of his possessions to dictate his ability and level of enjoyment of the same ethereal flotsam, and allows that flotsam to encompass such a dramatic roll in his life that it influences and demands authority over at least some fraction of his ongoing financial planning and his living area?

We're talking about a box that projects shadow puppets for our amusement in lieu of exercising one's actual imagination. The fact that the technology exists at all is amazing. Living like you're frugal or actually being financially poor has no bearing, because gratitude, appreciation and care can be expressed over what you already have no matter how much or little you actually own. Impoverished cheapskates, on the other hand, are rarely satisfied and keep running the hamster wheel of mindless consumerism. More bigger better faster lighter sharper...

You may no longer be financially poor, but are you truly living like someone who still isn't trapped in their own poverty?

I've been there myself, but not as bad as many have had it... yet a loving home, a dry, safe, warm bed and a full belly is still what drives my gratitude today. Everything else is gravy.

[MilesTeg]

It was. 720 tv and it was a network station... ABC I believe. The crt has a digital tuner and both were picked up with an antenna (indoor).

Look this is already getting too technical. Night and day shouldn't be "well you have to this..." or "well you didn't do that..."

It really is night and day, and if you didn't see it, then you weren't viewing HD content or you really aught to get your eyes checked (and again, not a joke or attempt at insult). TV stations still broadcast in SD (the HD broadcasts are on different channels) even though it's all digital now. It's not some special set of circumstances or particularly technical, it's just matching content resolution to display resolution.

If you're going to argue about latest and greatest there are other boards for that and, I don't believe chasing the latest gadget is really conducive to an early retire board or frugal lifestyle.

You asked what the upgrade was...

Where do you draw the line? Why stop at tv's? Does anyone have any calculations for break even points on fancy new washers compared with the old top loader that Is a fraction of the price of the trendy new ones, but use 5 kilowatts more per wash?Why not a new fridge too? Stainless steel of course. Or a 100 dollar coffee maker? After all it's only 9 cents a cup. How about instead one from a thrift store could be had for 5 bucks and makes the same coffee

Keeping a thing just because it works isn't always the most frugal. Whether it's light bulbs, tvs, refrigerators or cars sometimes the upfront investment is the cheaper option in the long run.

[MoonLiteNite]

I had a handmedown CRT from the age of 14-18. When i was 18 i bought my first and still ONLY TV. A "flat screen" 720p samsung.
Still works like a champ and have no plans to upgrade still.

Sad story behind it, it was floor model, with some teeth marks on it. So i got it for 33% off! Only paid like 600$. A few days later circuit city said they were closing up shop, and had it on sale for like 250$, i was pissed!

[Mr Chin Stubble]

t really is night and day, and if you didn't see it, then you weren't viewing HD content or you really aught to get your eyes checked (and again, not a joke or attempt at insult). TV stations still broadcast in SD (the HD broadcasts are on different channels) even though it's all digital now. It's not some special set of circumstances or particularly technical, it's just matching content resolution to display resolution.

Got it. I have to be watching hd content on hd channels for this to apply but that isn't a special set of circumstances ... I guess i doesn't help that I watch like no tv these days. But I really can't imagine being happy with a frugal retirement while spending time watching  a device that is constantly telling you to upgrade to new shiny things (bought on credit) and that  will make your life better.



Keeping a thing just because it works isn't always the most frugal. Whether it's light bulbs, tvs, refrigerators or cars sometimes the upfront investment is the cheaper option in the long run.

Oh do tell. You're on the wrong board.

[Cranky]

I think it does depend on what you're watching - we have the old CRT downstairs in the basement and watch it when we're exercising or doing laundry, and it's fine.

We have a "nicer" tv upstairs in the living room. We did actually do this switchout because we wanted to rearrange the living room and we had some free labor available at the time. The "nicer" tv does have a better picture, and it's really noticable if you watch a movie, but honestly - mostly I'm watching netflix and knitting and I barely look up at the tv most of the time.

If your old tv fills your tv watching needs, more power to you!

[GuitarStv]

For the most part, television is something designed around the very core concept of dissatisfaction with your own life. One lives vicariously through fictional characters, wanting things and experiences they don't have in their own life, constantly being told that nice stuff will somehow grant them a full and rich life... feeding fears and providing scapegoats for why they're so unhappy that they need to watch the nurturing glow of the idiot box. Real life is terrible, yes... come live inside this little rectangle and give us money to make you happy.

Eh . . . this is a poor argument.

You could say the same thing about going to the theater, looking at paintings, listening to music, reading books . . . and I think it would be equally wrong in those cases too.

When my life is most miserable, I don't watch any television at all.  Those are times when every minute of my day is allotted to something more important, and I'm scrambling to survive.  Television (and other artistic distraction) are usually a part of my life when things are great and I'm most satisfied with life . . . watching a movie with my family on Sunday after going for a bike ride, cleaning the house, preparing meals for the rest of the week, etc.  I don't watch TV or read a book to escape and live vicariously through the lives of others . . . I do it to be exposed to different ideas, to learn from stories, to reflect on situations and think about how they can be applied to my own life.

A great movie or TV show will still be good on a small standard definition screen.  Listening to a wonderfully crafted piece of music with still be enjoyable on tinny little 2" radio speakers.  I'd argue that the experience is objectively better with better quality equipment for playback though.

[Daley]

For the most part, television is something designed around the very core concept of dissatisfaction with your own life. One lives vicariously through fictional characters, wanting things and experiences they don't have in their own life, constantly being told that nice stuff will somehow grant them a full and rich life... feeding fears and providing scapegoats for why they're so unhappy that they need to watch the nurturing glow of the idiot box. Real life is terrible, yes... come live inside this little rectangle and give us money to make you happy.

Eh . . . this is a poor argument.

And given what you've posted past this first sentence combined with my own observations over the decades, I would personally argue that your experiences, position and mindset is the exception, not the rule.

There is also the issue of the excessive physiological dopamine response involved with television that is absent from nearly every other artform you cited. This isn't to say that other forms of art can't be used and abused for the sake of escapism as well (I've seen it done with books - though at least that requires some exercise of the imagination), but it's so much easier to get trapped in that cycle with television due to the very nature of the medium and how the mind and body responds to it.

That said, from my perspective? We really don't disagree on anything.

[MilesTeg]

t really is night and day, and if you didn't see it, then you weren't viewing HD content or you really aught to get your eyes checked (and again, not a joke or attempt at insult). TV stations still broadcast in SD (the HD broadcasts are on different channels) even though it's all digital now. It's not some special set of circumstances or particularly technical, it's just matching content resolution to display resolution.

Got it. I have to be watching hd content on hd channels for this to apply but that isn't a special set of circumstances ... I guess i doesn't help that I watch like no tv these days. But I really can't imagine being happy with a frugal retirement while spending time watching  a device that is constantly telling you to upgrade to new shiny things (bought on credit) and that  will make your life better.

Do you really expect content at a low resolution to look better on a display made for high resolution content? If the information isn't there it can't be displayed. This is not the world of procedural crime dramas where magical image enhancement exists :)

Keeping a thing just because it works isn't always the most frugal. Whether it's light bulbs, tvs, refrigerators or cars sometimes the upfront investment is the cheaper option in the long run.

Oh do tell. You're on the wrong board.

I'm on the wrong board because I'm pointing out that an initial up front investment that reduces operating costs can save money over the lifetime of a device? Honestly sounds to me like you just want to pick a fight, so I'll be exiting this discussion now.

[Slee_stack]

Chin chooses to be a luddite, and that's a perfectly fine choice.

I'm not sure why folks feel that a TV must only be used for TV shows, but whatever.

Nonetheless, if someone is looking to replace or get a first TV, it remains ridiculous to choose a 'FREE' (and used) CRT over a used LCD.  The upfront paltry savings is phantom.  You're kidding yourself.

[jim555]

The LED sets now use very little electricity vs. old low res CRT that gulps power.  The power alone is enough to dump it.

[Khaetra]

I ditched my CRT many years ago and never looked back.  I will admit I love my HDTV and save for a few old favorites, watching in SD is painful on such a beautiful screen and Planet Earth 2 would look awful on an old set.  Yes I'm spoiled :).  Now, before you get the idea that I am sitting around watching TV and eating bon-bon's all day, I'm not (I spent the morning walking and birding), but I do enjoy my nature shows as well as other programming.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

I'm a little surprised to hear much of the same arguments given by manufacturers on this board.

I read Die Broke by Stephen pollen many years ago when he argued about repairing vs. buying new and buying what you need. I always thought that was good advice.

I only notice HDwhen I'm at my parents and trying to watch a basketball game. But I gave up on the Knicks since they suck so there goes another reason to watch tv.

The energy argument I would think is pretty subjective and depends on quite a few things like if you actually watch a lot of tv and if you actually pay utilities. I can remember one apt I've lived in --which lasted less than 6mo -- where I actually paid a utility bill in recent years.

Further it just sounds like another excuse to spend money instead of keeping something till it wears out. Manufacturers have a vested interest in that. Where I would think you do not.

Again where do you draw the line. I see posts about expensive bikes, cash back rewards cards and have to wonder which board am I really on. It's like gas prices are up so buy a new electric car. Let so e the the sales tax and extra insurance

I could not imagine an early frugal retirement buying all new things and coming up with justifications.

[jim555]

Since you don't worry about the power bill it makes sense for you to stay with the CRT. 

[Cadman]

Since you don't worry about the power bill it makes sense for you to stay with the CRT. 

As others pointed out above, you need at least a 30" HDTV to replace a 24" CRT to get the same picture size. CRT uses 120w, LED uses 50w. At 2 hrs a day, for 365 days a year, that's 51.1 kwH (and a LOT of screen time). Figure 10 cents per, and you save $5.10 annually. Avg life of a new TV as reported by CNET is 5 years, but lets say you get 10 out of it. Unless, you're replacing a dead CRT set, the new LED flatpanel better not have cost more than $51 including tax or face punches are in order.

If you bought an LED TV larger than 30", the argument really falls apart.

There are a lot of compelling reasons for choosing a flat panel set, especially if you like HDTV or have to replace a broken one, but financial gain through power savings isn't one of them.

[Khaetra]

I'm a little surprised to hear much of the same arguments given by manufacturers on this board.

I read Die Broke by Stephen pollen many years ago when he argued about repairing vs. buying new and buying what you need. I always thought that was good advice.

I only notice HDwhen I'm at my parents and trying to watch a basketball game. But I gave up on the Knicks since they suck so there goes another reason to watch tv.

The energy argument I would think is pretty subjective and depends on quite a few things like if you actually watch a lot of tv and if you actually pay utilities. I can remember one apt I've lived in --which lasted less than 6mo -- where I actually paid a utility bill in recent years.

Further it just sounds like another excuse to spend money instead of keeping something till it wears out. Manufacturers have a vested interest in that. Where I would think you do not.

Again where do you draw the line. I see posts about expensive bikes, cash back rewards cards and have to wonder which board am I really on.

I could not imagine an early frugal retirement buying all new things and coming up with justifications.

Well, I own a house and until a genie with a wad of cash shows up to pay them I do have to pay utilities myself, so buying and using appliances that are more efficient does help keep those bills down. 

As fas as expensive bikes I'm sure someone much more knowledgable than I could explain that (I don't ride a bike), but I do get cash-back cards and if you buy/pay for things monthly (like groceries, gas, etc.) then why not get a bonus?

[MilesTeg]

Since you don't worry about the power bill it makes sense for you to stay with the CRT. 

As others pointed out above, you need at least a 30" HDTV to replace a 24" CRT to get the same picture size. CRT uses 120w, LED uses 50w. At 2 hrs a day, for 365 days a year, that's 51.1 kwH (and a LOT of screen time). Figure 10 cents per, and you save $5.10 annually. Avg life of a new TV as reported by CNET is 5 years, but lets say you get 10 out of it. Unless, you're replacing a dead CRT set, the new LED flatpanel better not have cost more than $51 including tax or face punches are in order.

If you bought an LED TV larger than 30", the argument really falls apart.

There are a lot of compelling reasons for choosing a flat panel set, especially if you like HDTV or have to replace a broken one, but financial gain through power savings isn't one of them.

My local craigslist has about 5 pages of 30"+ LCD tvs for <= $50

But of course, you're comparing apples to oranges. You're comparing a "free" SD CRT to a non-free LCD with a big difference in capabilities. A fairly comparable CRT (widescreen/hd) such as those sold a lot in the early 2000s consumes a lot more power (because of larger display area) than a standard 480i CRT.

And of course, that "free" CRT isn't really free. It's someone passing a problem along to you -- that problem being the cost to legally dispose of them. LCDs cost money to dispose of as well, but not nearly as much. A quick look at my local options tell me my best option for recycling charges by the pound ($0.60/lb) for TVs. So for a 30in LCD (~20lbs) it'd cost me about $12, and for a 24" CRT (~60lbs, the max they will take) it would cost me about $36. For really large Tube TVs like the venerable WEGA Sony Trinitron (hd widescreen from the 2000s) the cost is $120+

And although it's sad, most people watch a lot more than 2 hours of TV a day. The average American watches about 5 (many sources from goggle corroborate this). So even using your comparison you're really taking about $125 over 10 years, which is more than enough to buy a brand new 32" LCD.

[Cadman]

My point was that saving money isn't a reason to ditch a working CRT TV for a flat panel, the numbers just don't work out no matter the way you spin it.

Nobody is 'passing along a problem' if it's a set I already own. Locally, we're allowed to dispose of two CRT's per year, for free. But I know of individuals that are glad to take them off your hands, no charge, because they scavenge the precious metals to sell to recyclers.

I chose the 30" LED comparison as it was the most conservative, but with 42", 50" and 60" being "cheap", the $5 energy 'savings' are further reduced. The 2 hour figure was targeted at this audience; Mr. 5 hours of TV a night likely replaced his CRT set years ago.

[MilesTeg]

My point was that saving money isn't a reason to ditch a working CRT TV for a flat panel, the numbers just don't work out no matter the way you spin it.

Nobody is 'passing along a problem' if it's a set I already own. Locally, we're allowed to dispose of two CRT's per year, for free. But I know of individuals that are glad to take them off your hands, no charge, because they scavenge the precious metals to sell to recyclers.

I chose the 30" LED comparison as it was the most conservative, but with 42", 50" and 60" being "cheap", the $5 energy 'savings' are further reduced. The 2 hour figure was targeted at this audience; Mr. 5 hours of TV a night likely replaced his CRT set years ago.

The numbers certainly can work out, though it's of course not going to for every scenario. Buying a brand new 60" curved couch potato dream machine ain't going to save anyone money, but let's not pretend that's the only possibility or that there isn't a thriving low end and 2nd hand market. I can go to Amazon right now and buy a brand new 32" LCD for <$99 (probably even cheaper on sale!). I can go to Craigslist and get such a TV (or even 'better') for as low as 'free'.

The idea that the frugality means using something until it's completely dead doesn't hold water. Anything that has an ongoing maintenance/usage cost can potentially be a money sink compared to a replacement. Cars, light bulbs, appliances, and yes even TVs. That doesn't mean buying just any 'new' car, light bulb, appliance or TV saves you money, but such savings can be had.

[Iplawyer]

I think CRTs are fine for those that have them.  As for me - I don't watch TV a lot.  When I do - I want it to be a date night experience (because that is usually what it is instead of going to the movies) so I want a nice HDTV and sound system with nice comfy couch.  Okay - it is our indulgence.  And just like keeping a CRT  - having a nice TV is okay.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

I think CRTs are fine for those that have them.  As for me - I don't watch TV a lot.  When I do - I want it to be a date night experience (because that is usually what it is instead of going to the movies) so I want a nice HDTV and sound system with nice comfy couch.  Okay - it is our indulgence.  And just like keeping a CRT  - having a nice TV is okay.

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

[jim555]

I think 480 looks better on an old CRT.  But who wants to watch 480?

[Khaetra]

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

If you've got kids at home, date night on the couch is very mustachian compared to paying a sitter and going to the movies, where it's likely folks will either be on their phones, talking loudly to each other or some knucklehead will bring their kids who will whine and fuss throughout the whole thing.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

My point was that saving money isn't a reason to ditch a working CRT TV for a flat panel, the numbers just don't work out no matter the way you spin it.

Nobody is 'passing along a problem' if it's a set I already own. Locally, we're allowed to dispose of two CRT's per year, for free. But I know of individuals that are glad to take them off your hands, no charge, because they scavenge the precious metals to sell to recyclers.

I chose the 30" LED comparison as it was the most conservative, but with 42", 50" and 60" being "cheap", the $5 energy 'savings' are further reduced. The 2 hour figure was targeted at this audience; Mr. 5 hours of TV a night likely replaced his CRT set years ago.

The numbers certainly can work out[/i], though it's of course not going to for every scenario. Buying a brand new 60" curved couch potato dream machine ain't going to save anyone money, but let's not pretend that's the only possibility or that there isn't a thriving low end and 2nd hand market. I can go to Amazon right now and buy a brand new 32" LCD for <$99 (probably even cheaper on sale!). I can go to Craigslist and get such a TV (or even 'better') for as low as 'free'.

The idea that the frugality means using something until it's completely dead doesn't hold water. Anything that has an ongoing maintenance/usage cost can potentially be a money sink compared to a replacement. Cars, light bulbs, appliances, and yes even TVs. That doesn't mean buying just any 'new' car, light bulb, appliance or TV saves you money, but such savings can be had.

Yea especially if you really want them to

[Mr Chin Stubble]

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

If you've got kids at home, date night on the couch is very mustachian compared to paying a sitter and going to the movies, where it's likely folks will either be on their phones, talking loudly to each other or some knucklehead will bring their kids who will whine and fuss throughout the whole thing.

Who is your babysitter Dr. Spock?

Really we're talking about something for a med. sized set-- 42 in. and up -- that costs 400-1000 dollars depending on size and smart tv at Best Buy. I am sort of just buying this I feel to keep up with the Joneses. All so I can watch 5 nerds make sexual innuendos and other "zingers". How is that cheap?

Look I have a 1000 dollars les paul guitar, a hi fi stereo which I can't remember what it costs but, it certainly was not on average of 600 dollars.  And the differences are to me worth it. Mayb i am just not as big a tv fan and maybe i watch films and shows from the 40's and 50s like bicycle thieves where it is b&W and it would not matter much, but cheap it is not. Certainly not as cheap as watching a set i have already. I mean look you might be a tv watcher and/or you have kids and can't or do not want to go out as much or whatever...I get it. But to try and make this whole lcd tv thing (let alone a plasma )  out to be a frugal investment is just poppycock.

[inline five]

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

If you've got kids at home, date night on the couch is very mustachian compared to paying a sitter and going to the movies, where it's likely folks will either be on their phones, talking loudly to each other or some knucklehead will bring their kids who will whine and fuss throughout the whole thing.

Who is your babysitter Dr. Spock?

Really we're talking about something for a med. sized set-- 42 in. and up -- that costs 400-1000 dollars depending on size and smart tv at Best Buy. I am sort of just buying this I feel to keep up with the Joneses. All so I can watch 5 nerds make sexual innuendos and other "zingers". How is that cheap?

Look I have a 1000 dollars les paul guitar, a hi fi stereo which I can't remember what it costs but, it certainly was not on average of 600 dollars.  And the differences are to me worth it. Mayb i am just not as big a tv fan and maybe i watch films and shows from the 40's and 50s like bicycle thieves where it is b&W and it would not matter much, but cheap it is not.

I have more money in 8 pots and pans than my car is worth.

It's all what we value in life.

If you don't watch TV and don't care about the out dated CRT look then keep it.

Just don't look down or tell others that it's stupid to have a newer TV just because you don't value it. Doesn't make anyone right or wrong.

[GuitarStv]

So, I'm about to get a 45" LCD television for free because one of my friends decided to upgrade his old one and was going to throw it out (he has six televisions in his house at the moment).  Purchase price isn't necessarily as big a concern as people in this thread are making it out to be.

[ketchup]

So, I'm about to get a 45" LCD television for free because one of my friends decided to upgrade his old one and was going to throw it out (he has six televisions in his house at the moment).  Purchase price isn't necessarily as big a concern as people in this thread are making it out to be.

Yeesh, am I really that out of touch with the "norm"?  I can't imagine where the hell I'd put six or even five TVs.  We just bought a new $219 fancypants Roku Sharp 43" TV a few weeks ago, going from zero TVs to one, and that's plenty.

My house was built in the 60s, and the electrical panel has one circuit labelled "TV Room" (smallest bedroom).  Back when a single TV was so noteworthy that the room was named after it.  I suppose I could also insert jokes about it requiring so much power that they labeled the circuit that way too.

[golden1]

Weird convo.

Our CRT broke a long time ago.  We replaced it with a Samsung Flat screen LCD.  Huge improvement.  My CRT was in a small living room and took up tons of space.  The flat screen does not, and has a bigger screen.   It uses less energy and has a nicer picture.  Getting a CRT now seems dumb.  I don't even know where I would find one.  I would never go back to a CRT and now they are practically giving away flat screens.  I don't watch a ton of TV either, but I am not opposed to it. 

[Iplawyer]

I think CRTs are fine for those that have them.  As for me - I don't watch TV a lot.  When I do - I want it to be a date night experience (because that is usually what it is instead of going to the movies) so I want a nice HDTV and sound system with nice comfy couch.  Okay - it is our indulgence.  And just like keeping a CRT  - having a nice TV is okay.

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

Great!  I'm happy for you.  But we were talking about my date night and what I wanted.  And this is what I want.

[Slee_stack]

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

If you've got kids at home, date night on the couch is very mustachian compared to paying a sitter and going to the movies, where it's likely folks will either be on their phones, talking loudly to each other or some knucklehead will bring their kids who will whine and fuss throughout the whole thing.

Who is your babysitter Dr. Spock?

Really we're talking about something for a med. sized set-- 42 in. and up -- that costs 400-1000 dollars depending on size and smart tv at Best Buy. I am sort of just buying this I feel to keep up with the Joneses. All so I can watch 5 nerds make sexual innuendos and other "zingers". How is that cheap?

Look I have a 1000 dollars les paul guitar, a hi fi stereo which I can't remember what it costs but, it certainly was not on average of 600 dollars.  And the differences are to me worth it. Mayb i am just not as big a tv fan and maybe i watch films and shows from the 40's and 50s like bicycle thieves where it is b&W and it would not matter much, but cheap it is not. Certainly not as cheap as watching a set i have already. I mean look you might be a tv watcher and/or you have kids and can't or do not want to go out as much or whatever...I get it. But to try and make this whole lcd tv thing (let alone a plasma )  out to be a frugal investment is just poppycock.

Why don't you watch these shows on your computer/tablet whatever?  Why do you even need a CRT?

I still don't understand why any TV can't possibly be considered to use for something beyond just television shows.

Do you seek out used toilet paper?   Some stuff isn't worth taking even when its free.  Heck, most 'free' stuff probably isn't.  Reason being is that there are hidden costs attached.

[Mr Chin Stubble]

I can think of better date nights than staying home and watching tv that costs 400 dollars and up. That would buy 40 movie tickets.

If you've got kids at home, date night on the couch is very mustachian compared to paying a sitter and going to the movies, where it's likely folks will either be on their phones, talking loudly to each other or some knucklehead will bring their kids who will whine and fuss throughout the whole thing.

Who is your babysitter Dr. Spock?

Really we're talking about something for a med. sized set-- 42 in. and up -- that costs 400-1000 dollars depending on size and smart tv at Best Buy. I am sort of just buying this I feel to keep up with the Joneses. All so I can watch 5 nerds make sexual innuendos and other "zingers". How is that cheap?

Look I have a 1000 dollars les paul guitar, a hi fi stereo which I can't remember what it costs but, it certainly was not on average of 600 dollars.  And the differences are to me worth it. Mayb i am just not as big a tv fan and maybe i watch films and shows from the 40's and 50s like bicycle thieves where it is b&W and it would not matter much, but cheap it is not. Certainly not as cheap as watching a set i have already. I mean look you might be a tv watcher and/or you have kids and can't or do not want to go out as much or whatever...I get it. But to try and make this whole lcd tv thing (let alone a plasma )  out to be a frugal investment is just poppycock.

Why don't you watch these shows on your computer/tablet whatever?  Why do you even need a CRT?

I still don't understand why any TV can't possibly be considered to use for something beyond just television shows.

Do you seek out used toilet paper?   Some stuff isn't worth taking even when its free.  Heck, most 'free' stuff probably isn't.  Reason being is that there are hidden costs attached.

Free toilet paper ? Come on now. Also, what else would I be using a tv for than watching tv with it? And who is talking about free stuff? Besides I think all that would be required of a "free" crt would be the labor of actually going and getting the thing. That is not the same as a free junky car that needs 1000 dollars worth of work or used toilet paper. I think all the CRTers here already have their TV and probably purchased it new years ago. Not that I would have a problem with just going to free section of craiglist and getting another CRT. If you want to be frugal about your TV viewing so be it. I am getting a flat screen soon I believe but, this is a luxury purchase pure and simple. I guess a frugal retirement should have luxuries too but, from  the sound of your posts it seems like this would be nothing more than a pipe dream(at least it would for me anyway).Can you say go without granite countertops and stainless appliances for an early retire date if it came down to it?

[BlueMR2]

Why don't you watch these shows on your computer/tablet whatever?  Why do you even need a CRT?

I still don't understand why any TV can't possibly be considered to use for something beyond just television shows.

Do you seek out used toilet paper?   Some stuff isn't worth taking even when its free.  Heck, most 'free' stuff probably isn't.  Reason being is that there are hidden costs attached.

Speaking of hidden costs...  Internet fast enough to do computer/tablet for shows can be quite expensive in some places.  Cheaper to have the TV with an antenna and basic Internet (which is perfectly usable for non-streaming applications) than to pony up the big bucks for something that can do streaming.

[Optimiser]

Why don't you watch these shows on your computer/tablet whatever?  Why do you even need a CRT?

I still don't understand why any TV can't possibly be considered to use for something beyond just television shows.

Do you seek out used toilet paper?   Some stuff isn't worth taking even when its free.  Heck, most 'free' stuff probably isn't.  Reason being is that there are hidden costs attached.

Speaking of hidden costs...  Internet fast enough to do computer/tablet for shows can be quite expensive in some places.  Cheaper to have the TV with an antenna and basic Internet (which is perfectly usable for non-streaming applications) than to pony up the big bucks for something that can do streaming.

I can stream at least 720p with cheapest broadband available in my area (3mbps). I can even do 1080p on a good day or if I want to let my videos buffer for a bit before I watch them.  Unless you are talking about switching from dial up so you can stream.

[jim555]

The new TVs can double as a monitor.  In my bedroom I have a 40" monitor which doubles as a TV when needed.  You can't do that with a CRT.

[markbike528CBX]

I can stream at least 720p with cheapest broadband available in my area (3mbps). I can even do 1080p on a good day or if I want to let my videos buffer for a bit before I watch them.  Unless you are talking about switching from dial up so you can stream.

I can confirm AntiochOG's assertion above. Never had problems unless two streams were on (kids, since moved out).

[Mr Chin Stubble]

We're arguing nonsense now. I'm glad your bedroom tv also doubles as a monitor but, there have been times when I had no tv,let alone a bedroom tv with the exception of my parents house in high school.

46percent of households still have a crt in them and most are presumably non Mustachian.

Further by the link posted if you were to get rid of 24in crt you would need a 42 flat or smaller to break even on energy costs. Never mind that it's prolly less than 20 bucks a year unless you're watching like 10 hours a day.

Look enjoy your flat tv . Although I hope you're not spending the lions share of your time with multiple tv's --watching highly paid actors -- while you don't earn a thing by doing it. In any event it's not Mustachian. he actually mentions tearing down the dish network out  of his new house.