Just like standard-definition Freeview channels, the HD ones are terrestrial broadcasts and free to everyone. All you need is a Freeview HD box -- or preferably a TV with a Freeview HD tuner already built in. Think of it this way: one less box in the living room means space for another inch or two on the screen.
It's still early days for Freeview HD, though. A postcode checker lets you see if your neighbourhood has upgraded yet. If it hasn't, you could be waiting until the digital switchover in 2012. Even if it has, most Freeview HD transmitters are operating at lower power levels until analogue telly is dead and buried, so you might experience dodgy reception, or need a better aerial.
At the moment, most Freeview HD sets have 40-inch screens and above. That makes sense. You can only really see the benefits of HD at 30 inches and above, and larger sets tend to have a fatter price tag that hides the added cost of an HD tuner.
Screen size and type should always be your first considerations when buying a TV. While larger screens can often mean more enjoyment, bigger isn't always better, especially in smaller homes or if you're going to watch plenty of standard-definition material. If you thought VHS image quality was bad, just wait until you've seen a dodgy SD Freeview channel blown up to 55 inches.
Many people think the battle between LCD and plasma technologies is over. It isn't. Plasma tellies may be hotter, heavier and more power-hungry than LCD sets but they still deliver gorgeously rich colours and butter-smooth high-speed action. LCD TVs have the edge in brightness and skinniness though, so test both before making your mind up.
Although super-sharp video is Freeview HD's most obvious benefit, don't forget that it also comes with multi-channel surround sound. But this is where it gets technical. Most Freeview HD broadcasts today are in the AAC format, which isn't supported by many existing home-cinema receivers, leaving you with plain old stereo sound.
Some Freeview HDTVs automatically transcode surround sound to the widely accepted Dolby AC-3 format, but this isn't obligatory for Freeview HD devices until April 2011. Until then, read spec sheets carefully before you buy.
All Freeview HDTVs also support subtitles, audio description, automatic software updates and have an Ethernet socket for vague 'future interactive services'. As these are still up in the air, don't expect on-demand viewing or widgets from Freeview HD anytime soon.
What you can expect, though, is more and better Freeview HD channels as analogue TV fades away. That's as good a reason as any to invest in a Freeview HD telly today. Here's a selection of the best ones out there.
Toshiba Regza SL (46SL753B)
The 46-inch, 1080p Toshiba Regza 46SL753B LCD TV with LED edge lights isn't exactly beautiful, but it could be a good choice if you want a TV for watching hi-def movies and playing games. As with most flat-screen TVs, you'll need an external speaker system to get decent audio, though Read more£1100 check prices
Reviewed on 21 June 2010
Philips 9000 LED Pro (40PFL9704H/12)
At around £1,800, we think the 40-inch, 1080p, LED-backlit 40PFL9704H/12 LCD TV is too expensive, but, as long as you're good friends with your bank manager, we're happy to recommend this set. Its construction, picture and sound quality, and feature set all scream class Read more£1800 check prices
Reviewed on 29 January 2010
Sony Bravia NX703 (KDL-46NX703)
Sony hasn't endeared itself to us in recent years with expensive TVs that weren't up to its former high standards, but the NX703 is part of a new wave of Bravias with a smart 'Monolith' design, Freeview HD and some very high-end Internet-connected features. Has Sony finally justified the price tag? Read more£1700 check prices
Reviewed on 1 June 2010
Sharp Aquos CT2 (LC-40CT2E)
The 40-inch, 1080p Aquos LC-40CT2E is an impressive budget LCD TV. Its standard-definition pictures could be better but it's a very good high-definition performer, and its built-in Freeview HD tuner is a welcome bonus at this price. It doesn't look as cheap as it is either Read more£750 check prices
Reviewed on 21 May 2010
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