IPS vs VA Panels: Which one to choose?
If you're confused between IPS and VA panels, then you're not alone. Both of these are popular panel technologies used in modern displays like monitors and TVs. As a wise man once said, "the only bad choice is no choice," we want to make sure you don't make any poor choices when it comes to selecting a panel type.
In this post, we'll give you a straightforward breakdown of the differences between these technologies to help you make an informed choice.
IPS Panels
IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels have been around since the late 1990s and are popular for their accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles. They use liquid crystals that are aligned horizontally between two perpendicular glass plates, allowing them to produce deeper blacks and more vibrant colors without the risk of color shift.
IPS panels have a slower response time compared to other panel types, which can lead to motion blur in some fast-paced games and videos. However, newer IPS panels have faster response times of 1ms or less, which have made them suitable for gaming as well.
VA Panels
VA (Vertical Alignment) panels are known for their high contrast ratios, which can produce deeper blacks than IPS panels. They use liquid crystals that are aligned vertically between two perpendicular glass plates, allowing them to block more light from the backlight. This results in a more immersive and cinematic experience, especially when watching dark scenes or movies.
VA panels are not ideal for color-critical work due to their limited viewing angles and lack of color accuracy. They also suffer from ghosting and motion blur issues, which can make them unsuitable for fast-paced games and videos.
IPS vs VA Panels: Which one to choose?
When it comes to selecting the right panel type, it all depends on your usage. If you're a content creator or a design professional who requires accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles, then IPS panels are the way to go.
On the other hand, if you're a gamer or a movie enthusiast who values deep blacks and high contrast ratios, then VA panels are the way to go. The more recent VA panels can mitigate some of the motion blur and ghosting issues.
IPS vs VA: The Numbers
Here are some numbers to help you make an informed choice:
| IPS Panels | VA Panels | |
|---|---|---|
| Color Reproduction | Excellent | Good |
| Viewing Angles | Wide 178/178 | Narrow 160/160 |
| Contrast Ratio | Average 1000:1 | High 3000:1 |
| Response Time | Fastest 1ms | Slowest 8ms |
| Price | More expensive | Cheaper |
Note: Keep in mind that these numbers are subject to change, and newer models may have different features.
Conclusion
Both IPS and VA panels have their advantages and disadvantages, and it all comes down to your usage. We hope this article has given you the necessary information to make an informed decision. Choosing the right panel type can make a massive difference in your viewing experience.
We recommend visiting a store and checking out displays with different panel types to know which one you prefer. Happy viewing!