LED Backlighting vs Full-Array Backlighting in TVs
The battle between LED backlighting and full-array backlighting has been going on for years. Both of these technologies have their own advantages and disadvantages. In this comparison, we will take a factual and unbiased look at both LED backlighting and full-array backlighting in TVs.
What is LED backlighting?
LED stands for light-emitting diode. LED backlighting is a technology in which an array of LED lights is placed behind the LCD panel. The light produced by the LED backlighting passes through the liquid crystal display (LCD) and creates an image on the screen.
LED backlighting is more energy-efficient, slim, and lightweight than other lighting technologies. It also provides a wider range of colors and deeper blacks than CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent lamp) backlighting.
What is Full-Array Backlighting?
Full-array, or Direct Backlighting, is a display technology where the backlight is situated behind the panel, rather than at the edges. Instead of a series of LEDs located only on the edges, full-array consists of multiple strips placed evenly behind the screen.
Full-array backlighting is known for its excellent contrast, deep blacks, and uniformity in brightness. It provides a superior viewing experience when it comes to dark or black scenes compared to LED backlighting.
LED Backlighting vs Full-Array Backlighting
Local Dimming
One of the biggest differences between LED and full-array backlighting is local dimming. Local dimming is a feature in which the backlight is dimmed or turned off in specific areas of the screen, providing deeper blacks and greater contrast.
LEDs use edge-lit local dimming, where lighting is placed only on the edges of the screen. In contrast, full-array backlighting uses the backlight situated right behind the screen, allowing full-array backlighting to utilize zone dimming, which is more precise than edge-lit local dimming. With zone dimming, the light source behind the TV can be divided into multiple zones, allowing for more precise control over the backlight.
Contrast Ratio
Contrast ratio represents the ratio between the brightest white and the darkest black in an image. Full-array backlighting usually has a higher contrast ratio than LED backlighting, resulting in deeper blacks and a more realistic image.
Energy Efficiency
LED backlighting is more energy-efficient than full-array backlighting. Due to edge-lit design, LED backlighting consumes fewer watts than full-array backlighting, making it more economical to run.
Price
LED TVs are usually cheaper than full-array TVs. Full-array backlighting is more expensive due to the more complex design, multiple LED strips, and the additional hardware required to support local dimming.
Conclusion
Both LED and full-array backlighting technologies have their advantages and disadvantages, with neither being significantly better than the other. LED backlighting produces better energy efficiency, slim design, and lower price, while full-array backlighting produces superior contrast, deep blacks, and greater uniformity. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences, but for most users, LED-backlit TVs will provide a satisfactory viewing experience while saving them money.