LCD vs. LED

Everyone is buying an ‘LED’ TV these days but really how is it different to the LCD? And really, between the more expensive ‘LED’ TV and the cheaper alternative, the ‘LCD’ TV – what is best for me? Let’s put them both to the test below.  

  

Specifications

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panels are made of two layers of transparent material, which are polarised and ‘glued’ together. One of the layers is coated with a special polymer that holds the individual liquid crystals. Current is then passed through individual crystals, which allow the crystals to pass or block light to create images. LCD crystals do not produce their own light, so an external light source, such as florescent bulb is needed for the image created by the LCD to become visible to the viewer.

LED (Light-Emitting Diode) on the other hand is actually a type of highly efficient light bulb. You would notice them on everything from control panels to Christmas lights to torches and even car headlights. LED TVs are simply LCD TVs that use LEDs as a backlight instead of CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp). Essentially LED TV’s can be correctly referred to as LED-backlit LCD TVs. And that's the real difference – technically speaking.

  

Performance

LCD technology is renowned for its high impact and spectacular imagery, but really its main draw card is it’s ability for daytime viewing where the LCD screen is brighter with greater advantage if you watch TV in a very bright room. LCD’s are also slightly more energy efficient than previous models and competitors.

LED’s, even though slightly more costly upfront are very efficient light sources, where less power is consumed than LCD TVs with far less than plasma TVs as well. Local dimming LED TVs compete with plasma sets for true blacks, where RGB-LED TVs display more colours than either technology. If you're style conscious, Edge-lit LED sets might be the ones to go for, as they can be made shockingly thin and light compared to other technologies. All of these alternatives range in price based on their capabilities.

In terms of screen size – LCD TV’s are viewed best at a smaller size when compared to the LED backlit. The LCD would suit a smaller bright room or to be used as a second TV for the household. The LED’s are presented best on larger scale at 40” plus – with the visual elements of true blacks and colour panning presented at their very best – great for the entertainment room!

 

The Verdict  

It all depends on how the TV will be used; as both LCD & LED offer the cost efficiencies and performance that will suit any person’s budget and palate for entertainment. The smaller the room, the more you should consider LCD; the larger the room, the more you should consider LED. But don’t forget different brands offer different alternatives – but rest assured LCD or LED will both provide you with a great viewing experience. See all the options at your local Betta Electrical…we’ll give you betta advice!