There are two kinds of 3D TV available currently: active and passive. Active 3D TVs came first in 2010 and Passive TVs came later in 2011. The major perceivable difference is in the technology of the glasses needed to view the 3D image. The Active (shutter) glasses use LCD shutters running on batteries whilst Passive glasses consist of the simpler polarising lens technology similar.

Currently, 3D Technology is linked directly to brand – so in 2011 LG or Vizio 3D TVs use passive technology whilst the biggies Sony, Samsung and Panasonic are going with active technology. Only Toshiba offer both active and passive.

The 3D TVs are similar price in both camps – but the difference is in the price of the glasses – active glasses are pretty expensive and need matching with the set, and do not always come as offers with the set, as passive glasses do. Active glasses, with their batteries are heavier than passive, so passive glasses are lighter and generally more comfortable to wear (and have styles for folks who already wear glasses).

However, there are differences in the viewing experience and there are aficionados in both camps that prefer the 3D experience of one or the other. The viewing experience is very much related to the 3D TV model chosen and is affected by screen size.