What is a QLED TV?
When it comes to choosing a new TV, navigating the sheer variety of technologies can feel overwhelming. Among the many options available, QLED TVs have gained significant popularity for their remarkable picture quality and innovative features. But what exactly is a QLED TV, and how does it compare to other technologies like OLED?
Here, we dive into what makes QLED TVs unique, explore their benefits and compare them to OLED TVs.
- What is a QLED TV?
- What are the benefits of a QLED TV?
- QLED vs OLED TVs
- Frequently asked questions
Find out what defines QLED TVs and their key features.
Read the key benefits of QLED TVs.
Read our quick comparison of the two models.
We answer common queries on QLED TVs.
What is a QLED TV?
QLED stands for Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode. The defining feature of a QLED TV is the use of quantum dots—tiny particles that enhance colour and brightness. These dots are incorporated into the TV’s LCD (liquid crystal display) panel and are illuminated by a backlight, typically LED.
QLED TVs are known for their vibrant colours, excellent brightness levels, and long lifespan. Unlike OLED TVs, which have self-emissive pixels that generate their own light, QLED TVs rely on a backlight to produce images.
Read our guide What is an OLED TV? to find out more about OLED TVs.
What are the benefits of a QLED TV?
Exceptional brightness
One of the standout features of QLED TVs is their brightness. Thanks to the quantum dot technology, QLED TVs can produce intensely bright images, making them ideal for rooms with lots of natural light. Whether you’re watching daytime sports or action-packed blockbusters, the brightness ensures excellent visibility and vivid visuals.
Wide colour range
QLED TVs offer an impressive colour gamut. The quantum dots enhance colour accuracy and depth, allowing for more lifelike and rich visuals. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritise vibrant and stunning viewing experiences, especially when watching high-definition content.
Durability and longevity
Since QLED TVs rely on an LED backlight rather than organic materials (like OLED), they tend to have a longer lifespan. The risk of burn-in—a common issue with OLED screens where static images leave a permanent mark—is virtually non-existent in QLED TVs.
Find out more in our guide What are the benefits of QLED TVs?
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Variety of sizes and prices
QLED TVs come in a wide range of sizes and price points, making them accessible to a variety of budgets. Whether you’re looking for a high-end flagship model or a more budget-friendly option, there’s likely a QLED TV to suit your needs.
Impressive HDR performance
High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhances the contrast between dark and bright areas of a scene, and QLED TVs excel in this area. Their ability to achieve high peak brightness levels makes HDR content particularly striking.
Find out how QLEDs compare to OLED TVs here.
QLED vs OLED: How do they compare?
One of the biggest questions consumers face is whether to choose a QLED TV or an OLED TV. Let’s break down the key differences:
Brightness
Winner: QLED. QLED TVs outperform OLED in brightness, making them better suited for bright rooms.
Black levels and contrast
Winner: OLED. OLED TVs excel in delivering perfect black levels because each pixel emits its own light and can turn off completely. This results in superior contrast.
Colour accuracy
Winner: Both! QLED and OLED TVs offer excellent colour performance. QLED TVs slightly edge ahead in vibrancy, while OLEDs are known for their nuanced tones.
Viewing angles
Winner: OLED. OLED TVs maintain colour accuracy and brightness even when viewed from the side. QLED TVs, while improved in recent years, still perform best when viewed straight on.
Durability
Winner: QLED. QLED TVs don’t suffer from burn-in and are generally more durable, making them a safer long-term investment. However, bear in mind that most OLED TV offer a very low risk of burn-in.
Price
Winner: Entry-level QLED TVs are often more affordable than OLEDs, but high-end QLED models can rival OLED prices.
Read our complete guide to OLED vs QLED TVs.
Frequently asked questions
Are QLED TVs better than LED TVs?
QLED TVs offer better colour reproduction, higher brightness levels, and improved HDR performance compared to standard LED TVs.
Do QLED TVs suffer from burn-in?
No, QLED TVs do not run a risk of experiencing burn-in, unlike OLED TVs.
Is QLED worth the extra cost?
If you prioritise vibrant colours and high brightness, a QLED TV is worth the investment.
What size options are available for QLED TVs?
QLED TVs are available in a wide range of sizes, from compact 32-inch models to massive 100-inch displays, catering to various room sizes and preferences.