LED VS. LCD: The Video Wall Battle

In the world of visual communications, there has always been a debate about which technology is better, LED or LCD. Both have advantages and disadvantages, and the battle for the top spot in the video wall market continues.
 
When it comes to the LED vs. LCD video wall debate, it can be hard to pick a side. From the differences in technology to the picture quality.There are several factors that you will need to consider when choosing which solution is most suitable for your needs.
 
With the global video wall market set to grow by 11% by 2026, there has never been a better time to get to grips with these displays.
How do you choose a display with all of this information to consider though? 
 
What’s the difference?
To start with, all LED displays are just LCDs. Both use Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology and a series of lamps placed at the back of the screen to produce the images we see on our screens. LED screens use light-emitting diodes for backlights, while LCDs use fluorescent backlights.
LEDs can also have full array lighting. This is where the LEDs are placed evenly across the entire screen, in a similar way to an LCD. However, the important difference is that the LEDs have set zones and these zones can be dimmed. This is known as local dimming and can significantly improve picture quality. If a certain part of the screen needs to be darker, the zone of LEDs can be dimmed to create a truer black and an improved image contrast. LCD screens are not able to do this as they are constantly evenly lit.
ss (1)
LCD video wall in an office reception area
ss (2)
Picture quality
Image quality is one of the most contentious issues when it comes to the LED vs. LCD video wall debate. LED displays generally have better picture quality compared to their LCD counterparts. From black levels to contrast and even color accuracy, LED displays usually come out on top. LED screens with a full-array back-lit display capable of local dimming will provide the best picture quality.

In terms of viewing angle, there is usually no difference between LCD and LED video walls. This instead depends on the quality of the glass panel used.
The question of viewing distance may crop up in LED vs. LCD discussions. In general, there is not a huge distance between the two technologies. If viewers will be watching from up close the screen needs a high pixel density regardless of whether your video wall uses LED or LCD technology.
 
Size
Where the display is going to be placed and the size needed are significant factors in which screen is right for you.
LCD video walls typically aren’t made as large as LED walls. Depending on the need, they can be configured differently but won’t go to the huge sizes LED walls can. LEDs can be as big as you need, one of the largest is in Beijing, which measures 250 m x 30 m (820 ft x 98 ft) for a total surface area of 7,500 m² (80,729 ft²). This display is made up of five extremely large LED screens to produce one continuous image.
ss (3)
Brightness
Where you will be displaying your video wall will inform you of how bright you need the screens to be.
Higher brightness will be needed in a room with large windows and lots of light. However, in many control rooms being too bright will likely be a negative. If your employees are working around it for long periods they could suffer from headaches or eye strain. In this situation, an LCD would be the better option as there is no need for a particularly high brightness level.
 
Contrast
Contrast is also something to consider. This is the difference between the screen’s brightest and darkest colors. The typical contrast ratio for LCD displays is 1500:1, while LEDs can achieve 5000:1. Full-array backlit LEDs can offer high brightness due to the backlighting but also a truer black with local dimming.
 
Leading display manufacturers have been busy expanding their product lines through innovative designs and technological advancements. As a result, display quality has improved dramatically, with Ultra High Definition (UHD) screens and 8K resolution displays becoming the new standard in video wall technology. These advancements create a more immersive visual experience for any viewer.
 
In conclusion, the choice between LED and LCD video wall technologies depends on the user’s application and personal preference.  LED technology is ideal for outdoor advertising and large visual effects, while LCD technology is better suited for indoor settings where high-resolution images are required. As these two technologies continue to improve, customers can expect even more impressive visuals and deeper colors from their video walls.


Post time: Apr-21-2023