How We Rate Televisions
Environmental Impact
Our Environmental Impact Rating for Televisions is based on a product's Consumption and Toxicity Ratings (see below), manufacturing location and manufacturer's commitment(s) to environmental stewardship (see Television Buying Guide for details).
The higher the Environmental Impact Rating, the lesser the environmental impact of the television relative to others within the category.
Data is gathered from Greenpeace's Guide to Greener Electronics.
Consumption
Our Consumption Rating for Televisions is based on a product's annual electricity consumption measured in kilowatt hours relative to other products within the category. The higher the Consumption Rating, the more energy-efficient the television.
Toxicity
Our Toxicity Rating for Televisions factors-in the product manufacturer's commitment to remove and/or phase out the use of toxic substances in their products and to help reduce the amount of e-waste placed in landfills or exported to foreign countries.
The higher the Toxicity Rating, the less toxic the television product and more committed its manufacturer is to phasing-out and eliminating toxins from their products; taking-back their products to reuse and/or properly dispose of; and using recycled material in their products whenever possible.
Data is gathered from Greenpeace's Guide to Greener Electronics.
Lifecycle Cost
Our Lifecycle Cost Rating for Televisions is based on a product’s cost of ownership, including its purchase price and cost of operation (energy costs), relative to others within the category. A product’s return on investment potential is revealed in its Lifecycle Cost Rating since this rating uses the product's lifetime energy cost in relation to its purchase price. In many instances, products that have higher purchase prices but also have higher efficiency ratings bring a quick return on investment through reduced utility expenses.
The higher the Lifecycle Cost Rating, the more cost-effective the product.
Price
Our Price Rating for Televisions is based on a product’s purchase price relative to that of others within the category. The higher the Price Rating, the better (lower) the price of the product.