2.1.8 Display Types - Notes
There are two main display categories: LCD with three subtypes, and non-LCD technologies such as OLED and Mini-LED.
LCD Subtypes
| Type | How it works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPS (In-Plane Switching) | Crystals aligned parallel to the screen | Best color accuracy, wide viewing angles | Slower response times |
| TN (Twisted Nematic) | Crystals twist 90 degrees to control light | Fastest response times, high refresh rates | Poor color, limited viewing angles |
| VA (Vertical Alignment) | Crystals aligned vertically and tilt with voltage | Better color and angles than TN | Slower than TN; color shift at extreme angles |
Non-LCD Technologies
| Type | How it works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) | Each pixel emits its own light | True blacks, excellent contrast and color, energy efficient | Risk of burn-in from static images |
| Mini-LED | Thousands of tiny LEDs used as the backlight | Better brightness, contrast, and color than standard LCD; reduced halo effect | More expensive, higher power use than OLED, and no true blacks |
Key Facts to Remember
- Mini-LED is an enhancement to LCD, not a type of OLED.
- IPS is best for design and professional work.
- TN is best for gaming when speed matters more than image quality.
- OLED gives the best overall image quality, but burn-in is a concern.