LCD vs LED Screen: Which One Should You Choose?

In the past, screens were big and heavy. However, display technology has completely evolved in the past 2 decades. Modern display technologies have made screens thinner, lighter, and clearer. When it comes to choosing a display for your home or business, two popular options you have are LCD and LED screens.

Now, the main concern is which one should you choose? The simplest way to figure this out is to compare the two options. Let’s do so without further ado.

LCD vs. LED Screen

We will compare the two displays based on different criteria, such as picture quality, brightness levels, cost, etc.

Picture Quality

LCD screens use fluorescent lights to light up the display. These lights stay on all the time, even when the screen shows black areas. This makes the dark parts of the content look grey. The colors can also look less sharp, especially in bright rooms.

On the other hand, an LED screen uses tiny light bulbs called light-emitting diodes. These lights can turn on and off quickly, which makes the dark parts look darker. This gives you better contrast and more diverse colors. As a result, pictures look clearer, especially when you’re watching in a dark room.

Brightness and Clarity

LCD screens have high brightness levels. However, they may struggle under strong lighting. If you’re sitting near a window with sunlight coming in, the screen may look dull. Moreover, the brightness spreads out across the whole screen, which makes it look uneven.

LED screens have a relatively higher brightness level. This means you can use them in well-lit rooms or even in bright daylight. The best part is that brightness is more even. As a result, the whole screen lights up properly, and viewers can notice all major and minor details. It makes your favorite shows and games look more realistic.

Energy Use

It’s one of the most important things you need to compare before making a final call. LCD screens use more power because of the traditional backlight system. The fluorescent lights stay on, even if the screen is showing dark pictures. This uses more electricity over time, which can increase your power bills.

Meanwhile, LED screens use modern lighting that turns on and off only when needed. This helps save energy. It doesn’t use a lot of power, especially when showing dark scenes. Therefore, if you want to save electricity and reduce bills, LED screens are a smarter option.

Thickness and Style

LCD screens are usually thicker and heavier because of their lighting setup. Therefore, it can be hard to hang them on a wall or carry them to different rooms. Moreover, thicker screens may not look stylish in a modern room.

LED screens are thinner. They can be made very flat, which gives them a sleek and modern look. You can hang them easily on a wall, and they don’t take up a lot of space. If you like a neat and stylish setup, LED screens look better and are easier to fit anywhere.

Lifespan and Durability

You have to spend a considerable amount on a new display screen. Therefore, you must consider its durability before making a final call. LCD screens can last a long time. However, the fluorescent bulbs inside them can wear out faster. Over time, you may notice the picture is not as bright or clear.

On the other side of the spectrum, LED screens usually last longer. The light-emitting diodes are more durable and don’t lose brightness quickly. This means your screen will stay sharp and clear for several years.

Price and Value

LCD screens are often more affordable. If you’re on a tight budget, an LCD is a suitable choice. You can get a good-sized screen without spending a lot of money. However, affordable options may not always give the best results.

LED screens cost a bit more. However, they offer better value for money by displaying high-resolution images and using less power. You may pay more when buying, but you save on electricity and get a better display.

Final Verdict

Both LCD and LED have their own merits and demerits. However, LCD screens are no longer suitable for modern homes. If you want better image quality and a realistic display, LED screens are your go-to option.