The difference between LCD and LED lies primarily in their backlighting technology. LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display, screens utilize fluorescent backlighting, which can result in lower brightness and contrast.
In contrast, LED, or Light Emitting Diode, displays are essentially advanced LCDs that use LEDs for backlighting. This allows LED displays to provide greater brightness, improved color accuracy, and enhanced energy efficiency. Understanding these differences is crucial when choosing the right display for your needs.
Table of Contents
1. Why Does LCD Display Needs A Backlight?
2. The Differences Between LCD and LED
2.1 What Is LED Display Screen?
2.1.1 Pros of LED Screen Display
2.1.2 Cons of LED Screen Display
4. LCD vs. LED Price Comparison
6. LCD vs LED Display: Factors to Consider Before Buying
1. Why Does LCD Display Needs A Backlight?
Just as the name suggests, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) contains a liquid crystal which will change state when current is applied to it, and the liquid crystal is sandwiched between two plates. If you want it to light up, there should be a light behind it cause it emits no light of its own. The light is what we call “backlight”.
For further understanding, a backlight is a form of illumination used in liquid crystal displays (LCDs).
As LCDs do not produce light by themselves, they need illumination (ambient light or a special light source) to produce a visible image. You can imagine the LCD panel as a sandwich with different layers.
First, you have a polarised filter, then you have a protective layer, followed by the LCD sheet, and then a backlight at the back.
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is a type of flat panel display that uses liquid crystals in its primary form of operation. Since LCDs cannot emit light themselves, a backlight is usually placed behind an LCD screen to be seen in the dark environment.
In short, LCDs are illuminated by a backlight and pixels are turned on and off electronically, while liquid crystals are used to rotate polarized light.
You can easily to understand from the picture above: a polarizing glass filter is placed in front of and behind all pixels. Between the two filters are the liquid crystals, which can be switched on and off electronically.
There are four types of LCDs:
- Twisted Nematic (TN);
- In Panel Switching displays (IPS Panels);
- Vertical Alignment Panels (VA Panels);
- Advanced Fringe Field Switching (AFFS).
2. The Differences Between LCD and LED
There are many differences between LED display and LCD display and both two can be an option for a variety of application sites. To determine the best one for our projects, it is critical for us to understand exactly the advantages, limitations, and differences to determine which one can be better in a given situation. We should compare them not only in the aspect of cost, but also other factors such as sizes, brightness, contrast, durability, clearness, vibrancy, and many other features.
2.1 What Is LED Display Screen?
The full name of LED is Light-emitting diode, and it provides its own light. It has been widely used for virtually all display installations, both indoor and outdoor. In the digital signage industry, LED display screens now have become mainstream.
2.1.1 Pros of LED Screen Display
1. Brightness
The brightness for LED display boards ranges from hundreds to thousands and is much higher than that of LCDs. Even under direct sunlight, LED screens can display images clearly while LCDs are susceptible to ambient light. Inappropriate ambient light may render the picture unviewable.
2. Energy-consumption
Power consumption is one of the most concerned points, and the ratio is about 10:1 compared with LCD. The comparative lower energy consumption is because of the structure of these two displays.
3. Viewing angle
LED display has a wider viewing angle which can up to 160°to ensure people can see the images clearly from different angles, whereas that of the LCD panel is more limited and narrower.
4. Refresh rate
LED displays can convert electrical energy to optical energy, which contributes to a higher refresh rate, thus better performances in displaying videos with less latency and unwished situation such as ghosting, and also higher resolution and wider color gamut.
5. Contrast
LED display panel can change the light intensity in a extreme short time, so it has local dimming according to the requirements, for instance, the dark images can be even darker through controlling the brightness of partial screen.
With such features, the contrast ratio can be much higher than that of LCD. The high contrast can increase the visibility in different weathers and environments, for example, even in the daytime with strong sunlight, outdoor LED display can still have excellent display performance.
6. Working life
The working life of LED screen displays is much longer than that of LCD on average. The lifespan of an LED display screen can be 50,000 hours (15 years of use at 10 hours per day), whereas the lifespan of an LCD can be 30,000 hours (8 years of use at 10 hours per day). Of course, LCD is also a durable electronic device but LED performs better in this area.
7. Color gamut
Full-color LED display has a wider color gamut so it has less color distortion and more vivid expressive force.
8. Environment-friendly
LED displays are more friendly to the environment than LCD as the lighter weight will consume less fuel when delivering, and because LCDs contain a small quantity of mercury so will result in more pollution after discarding. Besides, LED display panel consumes less energy and the longer working lifespan also reduces waste.
9. LED Video Wall
LED video walls are one of the most popular display ways to use in various applications such as entertainment venues and various retail spaces.
LEDs are typically the preferred display for video walls. LED video wall has excellent uniformity and the widest viewing angles with seamless, no bezels appearance.
And single LED display board can be easily installed together into one large LED wall, which will save a lot of the labor cost and time cost.
LCDs can be tiled, but their bezels cause gaps and visual barriers. While there are LCDs with narrow bezels, small seams are still visible. Thus it is not an ideal choice given such a condition.
10. Size
An LED display can be any size. There are various creative LED displays including ball LED display, curved LED display, flexible LED display, foldable LED display and so on to meet the requirements for creative display, but LCDs are typically only available in the standard sizing set by the manufacture.
2.1.2 Cons of LED Screen Display
The possible higher initial price point: as the more complex production process, more durable quality and is released later than LCD panels, the initial price point of LEDs can be higher. But there is one thing that deserves to be noticed, the lifespan is longer and the future maintenance fee can be lower with high adaptability to different application scenarios. So in the long term, choosing a LED display may save you more money.
2.2 What is LCD Display?
LCD stands for liquid crystal display. As what has been mentioned above, LCD doesn’t produce light directly, it has a backlight to help to produce images. LCD displays are usually used in the indoor environment and the ambient light is often limited and controlled.
2.2.1 Pros of LCD Panel
1. A lower price point
Due to LCD has been in widespread use since the early ’70s where it first appeared in digital watches, the cost has been reduced so the price can be lower.
2. Good for gamers
LCD monitors tend to have better viewing angles and anti-glare than edge-lit LEDs as if you like to kick back in your chairs or view the screen from different angles, because the edge-lit LED may lose visibility as you move away from the center viewing angle (please notice the full-array LED monitors don’t have such issue so it is the best choice for gaming).
2.2.2 Cons of LCD Panel
1. Thicker and heavier structure because of the different backlight. There are two methods of LED backlight: direct and edge. The main advantage of edge lighting is that it can be used to make LED screens incredibly thin cause the LEDs are at the side and not behind the screen.
2. Many monitors can not support 4K. Nowadays, 4K videos are one of a trend, however, many LCD displays can not load such video sources so there are more limitations on the content.
3. More energy consumption. As compared with LED display of the same size, LCD may consume 20% to 50% electricity more than that of LED display screens.
4. Lower contrast results in a less clear image. As what we have discussed above, LED display has special lighting methods that can increase the contrast to display pictures more clearly.
LCD VS LED Feature
| Feature | LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) | LED (Light Emitting Diode) |
| Technology | Uses liquid crystals and fluorescent backlighting. | Uses light-emitting diodes for backlighting (or self-emitting in OLED). |
| Backlighting | Fluorescent tubes (CCFL). | LEDs (various types: edge-lit, direct-lit, or OLED). |
| Brightness | Generally lower brightness compared to LED. | Higher brightness, better for bright environments. |
| Color Accuracy | Good, but generally less vibrant. | Superior color accuracy and vibrancy. |
| Contrast Ratio | Lower contrast ratio; blacks may appear gray. | Higher contrast ratio; deeper blacks. |
| Viewing Angles | Can have limited viewing angles, especially with TN panels. | Better viewing angles, especially with IPS or OLED. |
| Design Thickness | Thicker due to the need for CCFL backlighting. | Slimmer and lighter due to LED technology. |
| Energy Efficiency | Less energy-efficient compared to LED. | More energy-efficient, uses less power. |
| Lifespan | Generally shorter lifespan, affected by backlight aging. | Longer lifespan, especially with OLED and MicroLED. |
| Screen Uniformity | May have uneven brightness and color uniformity. | More consistent brightness and color uniformity. |
| Cost | Generally less expensive. | Typically more expensive due to advanced technology. |
| Applications | Widely used in budget-friendly displays. | Preferred for high-end, professional, and ultra-thin displays. |
3. Use Cases for LCD vs. LED
When choosing between LCD and LED displays, it’s essential to consider the specific applications where each technology excels. Below are common use cases for both LCD and LED displays:
Category | LCD Use Cases | LED Use Cases |
Office Monitors | Ideal for document editing and presentations. | Not commonly used; less cost-effective for office use. |
Home Televisions | Budget-friendly options for controlled lighting. | High-end models with superior picture quality. |
Digital Signage | Common in indoor settings for static displays. | Ideal for dynamic content in outdoor environments. |
Computer Screens | Suitable for various computing tasks and designs. | Not typically used for standard computer displays. |
Outdoor Displays | Generally not used due to lower brightness. | Excellent visibility for billboards and advertisements. |
Event Displays | Rarely used for events. | Perfect for concerts and exhibitions with vibrant colors. |
Video Walls | Limited use, primarily for static images. | Best for control rooms and immersive installations. |
Gaming Monitors | Good for general gaming, but not high refresh rates. | Preferred for fast response times and high refresh rates. |
Commercial Spaces | Static signage in retail. | Dynamic content displays for advertisements. |
Educational Use | LCD projectors for classrooms. | LED screens for large auditoriums. |
Transportation Hubs | LCD screens for timetables and info. | LED screens for advertisements and announcements. |
4. LCD vs. LED Price Comparison
Category | LCD Pricing | LED Pricing |
Initial Cost | Generally lower initial cost for standard models. | Higher initial cost, especially for premium models. |
Budget Options | Wide range of affordable options available. | Fewer budget-friendly choices; often higher priced. |
High-End Models | Available but may lack some advanced features. | Typically features more advanced technology, leading to higher prices. |
Size Variability | Prices vary by size but are generally lower overall. | Larger sizes can significantly increase costs. |
Long-Term Value | Cost-effective for basic use but may require replacement sooner. | Higher durability and lower energy costs can offset the initial price. |
Energy Efficiency | Moderate energy consumption, impacting long-term costs. | Generally more energy-efficient, leading to savings over time. |
Maintenance Costs | Usually lower maintenance costs. | Can have higher repair costs if components fail. |
5. Maintenance and Longevity
a. LCD Displays:
Maintenance: LCD screens typically require less maintenance. Regular cleaning is often all that’s needed to keep the display in good condition. However, if the backlight or liquid crystals fail, repairs can be challenging and may require professional service.
Longevity: LCD displays usually have a lifespan of around 30,000 to 60,000 hours of use, depending on the model and usage conditions. They can last several years with proper care, but prolonged use can lead to issues like screen burn-in or fading over time.
b. LED Displays:
Maintenance: LED displays can require more maintenance, especially in outdoor environments where they are exposed to elements. Regular inspections are essential to ensure that individual LEDs are functioning correctly. Repairing or replacing faulty LED modules can be more complex and expensive.
Longevity: LED displays often boast a longer lifespan, ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 hours. Their durability and resistance to fading make them ideal for high-use environments, but they may still require periodic replacement of individual components.
c. Conclusion
In general, both LCD and LED displays are reliable, but LEDs tend to offer greater longevity. LCDs are easier to maintain but may need replacement sooner. Understanding these factors helps users make informed decisions based on their specific needs and usage scenarios.
6. LCD vs LED Display: Factors to Consider Before Buying
Understanding how LCD and LED displays work and their key differences can help you make an informed choice.
(1) How They Work:
How do LCD Displays Work?
Use liquid crystals and a fluorescent backlight to control light and create images. They are known for affordability but have limitations in brightness and color contrast.
How do LED Displays Work?
An advanced version of LCDs, they use light-emitting diodes for backlighting, offering superior brightness, energy efficiency, and vivid visuals.
(2) Brightness:
LED displays are significantly brighter, making them better for outdoor or brightly lit spaces, while LCDs perform well in controlled indoor environments.
(3) Energy Efficiency:
LEDs consume less power, reducing long-term operational costs, whereas LCDs require more energy due to their older backlight technology.
(4) Image Quality:
LEDs excel in color contrast, deeper blacks, and sharpness, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. LCDs, while decent, can appear less vibrant.
(5) Lifespan and Maintenance:
LEDs last longer and are more durable, while LCDs may need more frequent maintenance or replacement.
(6) Cost:
LCDs are budget-friendly, and suitable for basic needs, while LEDs have a higher upfront cost but deliver better performance and long-term value.
Which is Better LCD or LED Display?
LED displays are generally better for performance, durability, and versatility. However, if budget constraints are critical, LCD displays might be the right choice for your needs.
7. Future of LCD and LED Technologies
Aspect | Description |
Improved Color Accuracy | Future advancements will enhance color reproduction, making displays more vibrant and true to life. |
Higher Resolutions | LCDs will likely evolve to support 4K and 8K resolutions as demand for higher quality increases. |
Enhanced Backlighting | Technologies like Quantum Dot and Mini-LED will improve brightness, contrast, and energy efficiency. |
Flexible and Lightweight Designs | Innovations may lead to thinner, flexible panels suitable for curved and portable applications. |
LCD technology is set to improve with better color accuracy and higher resolutions, including 4K and 8K. New backlighting options like Quantum Dot and Mini-LED will enhance brightness and efficiency. Flexible designs will also allow for thinner, adaptable displays. These advancements will help keep LCDs competitive in the tech market.
Aspect | Description |
Micro-LED Development | Promises greater brightness, energy efficiency, and color accuracy, leading to thinner, lighter displays. |
Integration with Smart Technologies | LED displays will integrate more with smart tech, offering IoT connectivity and enhanced interactivity. |
Sustainable Practices | Focus on sustainable manufacturing, using eco-friendly materials and reducing energy consumption. |
Expansion in Various Markets | Will expand into automotive displays, smart signage, and large-scale installations for events and advertising. |
LED technology will see improvements with Micro-LED for brighter, more efficient displays. It will integrate with smart tech for interactivity and focus on sustainability. The market will also expand into automotive displays and smart signage, keeping LEDs at the forefront of innovation.
8. FAQs
LED and LCD computer screens differ mainly in backlighting. LCD screens use fluorescent backlights, which can be dimmer. LED screens are a type of LCD that uses LED backlighting, providing brighter images, better colors, and greater energy efficiency. Overall, LED screens perform better than traditional LCDs.
The difference between LED and LED backlit LCD monitors is that LED monitors use LEDs for both display and backlighting, resulting in brighter images and better color. LED backlit LCD monitors use liquid crystals for the display but have LEDs for backlighting, offering improved brightness and contrast compared to standard LCDs.
To determine if your screen is LCD or LED, you can follow these steps:
Check the Model Information: Look for the model number on the screen or in the user manual. You can often find specifications online that will indicate whether it’s an LCD or LED display.
Look for Backlighting Type: If it mentions “LED backlit” in the specifications, it’s an LED backlit LCD. If it doesn’t mention LEDs, it’s likely a standard LCD.
Brightness and Color Quality: If your screen has bright colors and high contrast, it may be an LED. Traditional LCDs typically have less vibrant displays.
Screen Thickness: LED monitors are usually thinner than older LCDs due to the more compact backlighting technology.
Visual Cues: If your screen displays “LED” branding or logos, it’s likely an LED monitor.
By checking these factors, you can identify whether your screen is LCD or LED.
LED displays are usually better for eye comfort than traditional LCDs. They provide brighter images and better contrast, which can help reduce eye strain. Many LED monitors also have features that minimize flicker and reduce blue light, making them more comfortable for long use. Overall, while both types can cause eye fatigue, LED displays offer a more pleasant viewing experience.
OLED is generally better than LCD because it offers superior picture quality, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. OLED screens have wider viewing angles and faster response times, making them ideal for fast-moving content. However, LCDs are often more affordable and have a longer lifespan without the risk of burn-in. Your choice will depend on your preferences and budget.
LED displays generally have better motion handling and lower blur, making them suitable for fast-paced video content and gaming compared to traditional LCDs.
9. The Bottom Line
This article introduces the difference between LCD and LED, and the advantages and disadvantages of both. When you try to make the best choice for your project, consider these different features carefully.
Generally speaking, an LED display holds advantages due to many functions it has, such as longer working life, lower consumption, easier maintenance, better display performance and so on.
These qualities contribute to the higher initial price point, while in the long run, the investment may be more cost-effective. But if you are looking for something cheaper just without many requirements, that may have you considering the LCD.
In short, price should not be the only, or first factor to consider which one to choose, but considering them based on our exact needs.