LED vs LCD How to Choose the Right Display Type

You’ve had a lot of terms thrown at you. LED. LCD.

What do they matter? Why can’t you just pick one and be done with it? If you’re going to invest in digital displays, you need to be certain you are getting the best one for your business. Both LED and LCD displays have their purpose in the world, and choosing one depends on exactly what you will be doing with it.

So What is the Difference?

LED Displays
LED stands for “light-emitting diode.” LED displays consist of rows upon rows of these diodes that produce different colored lights. The diodes are grouped into pixels, and the number and size of the pixels is what determines the quality of the images.

Pros

• Images, videos, and animated graphics are easily readable from a distance.
• A wide viewing angle means people can see your content from different vantage points.
• Because LEDs themselves are a source of light, they are extremely bright.
• Images remain whole even with a few dead pixels in the screen.
• Available for both interior and exterior usage.

Cons

• Content may be more difficult to read when viewers are standing close to the display.
• Though costs are decreasing, some find LEDs to be cost-prohibitive.

LCD Displays
LCD is an acronym for liquid crystal display. In these screens, the liquid crystals are placed between two sheets of glass. Images are created by pushing a current through the liquid crystals, and the display is backlit with a light source such as LEDs.

Pros

• Viewers can read these signs at a very close range.
• Can be used in both indoor and outdoor operations.
• Plays static images, videos, and animated graphics.

Cons

• Require a light source that may need additional maintenance.
• May develop image persistence if the image remains static for several hours (though this can be fixed simply by turning off the display).

What is Your Budget?
Depending on where your display is going, the price may change drastically between LCDs and LEDs when you consider the cost of the display itself, plus the installation. It is best to contact the manufacturer directly to determine the costs for each option.

Making Your Decision
If you’re uncertain about what type of display is best for your application, contact the manufacturer. After all, the manufacturer will be the most familiar with the qualities of their products, and asking your questions will give you a good feel for their level of customer service.

Sources:

Nanolumens – “Decisions – LED vs LCD” - http://www.nanolumens.com/decisions-led-vs-lcd

Adaptive Displays – “LCD vs LED Lights in Your Business Signage” - http://www.adaptivedisplays.com/blog/bid/237701/LCD-vs-LED-Lights-In-Your-Business-Signage

Actis – “LED Versus LCD for Displaying Indoor Signage and Video Walls” - https://www.actis.co.in/led-versus-lcd-for-displaying-indoor-signage-and-video-walls/