Latest news with #QLEDs
Tom's Guide
3 days ago
- Tom's Guide
Sony QLEDs vs OLEDs: What do you get when you pay more?
If you're shopping for a TV and you've already decided that Sony is the brand for you, the choice will most likely come down to two options: a QLED or an OLED. These terms refer to the TV's display technology, and depending on your budget, your viewing habits and your overall needs, one of these types might be better than the of the best TVs you can buy are among these two categories, and even if you don't intend to spend top-dollar on a high-end model, it's in your best interest to understand their many differences. Sony QLEDs are LED TVs with quantum dots. These nanocrystals enhance color and brightness, and while a ton of TVs feature quantum dots, many ultra-affordable models you can buy don't come with them. Until recently, Sony did not refer to its quantum dot-enhanced TVs as QLEDs. Instead, the feature was referred to by the brand as offering Triluminos color, sometimes called Triluminos Pro. Today, you can still find Triluminos color as a feature on a Sony TV's spec sheet. Some marketing materials refer to them as QLEDs. If you don't see these terms, chances are the model in question is without quantum dots. Unless you're trying to spend as little as possible, I recommend buying a quantum dot-equipped set if you're buying an LED TV. They've become enough of a standard feature that even budget-friendly Sony LED TVs have them. For instance, the Sony Bravia 3 — one of the brand's most affordable offerings (but a set we don't recommend) — comes with quantum-dot color. The higher-end Sony Bravia 7 and the flagship Bravia 9 come with quantum dots, too, but these TVs also feature Mini-LED backlighting, so you'll have to spend more for that upgrade. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. I recommend buying a quantum dot-equipped set if you're buying an LED TV. Like all OLED TVs, Sony's OLEDs don't rely on traditional backlighting at all. Instead, every single pixel in the display is self-illuminating, which has a positive impact on almost every aspect of performance — especially contrast. Despite this fundamental difference, there are Sony OLED TVs with quantum dots, too. Commonly referred to as QD-OLED TVs, these souped-up sets (like the Sony A95L and the upcoming Bravia 8 II) offer better color volume — and in many cases better brightness — than traditional WOLED TVs (like the Bravia 8 OLED). You can take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of each of these display technologies in our Mini-LED vs OLED guide, but as I'll soon explain, one isn't necessarily better than another. It largely depends on your viewing habits. Price is another important factor. Of these types, you can expect to pay the least for a Sony QLED with basic backlighting, more for a Sony QLED with Mini-LEDs and the most for a top-shelf Sony OLED. If you're shopping for a Sony-branded TV, I've got good news: They're well-designed TVs, both aesthetically and functionally. In recent years, mid-range and high-end Sony TVs offer multiple ways to configure their respective stands. This makes them plenty accommodating regardless of living room layout, especially if you're trying to fit a large TV on a narrow credenza. And, although everyone's entitled to their own opinion, I find Sony TVs to be among the nicest-looking in the game. There's an attention to detail that is often lacking among rival TV-makers, from the crosshatched pattern on the back of some displays to the pinpoint alignment of their stand. The brand's OLED TVs tend to offer the slimmest panels, but Sony doesn't lean into the ultra-thin look the way rival OLED TVs do. Its Mini-LED TVs tend to be bulkier-looking than competitive sets, but not in ways that belie their excellent build quality. At the time of publishing, all mainline Sony TVs leverage the Google TV smart platform. They also lean on the same basic interface for their settings menus. This means that the core Sony TV experience will be mostly the same on an entry-level Sony QLED as it will on a high-end Sony OLED. Certain settings and enhancements are tailored to display type, however. (You won't find OLED-specific settings on a Sony Mini-LED's settings menu, for instance, or local dimming settings on a Sony OLED.) Across the board, though, Sony TVs offer a tremendous range of settings for tweaking the picture and audio. If you like to tinker with that stuff, you'll feel right at home with any Sony TV. Another thing to keep in mind is that, as is the case with all TV brands, lower-end Sony TVs will likely feel less snappy than higher-end Sony TVs due to their relatively limited processing power. I've never reviewed a Sony TV whose software was outright unusable, but it's something to remember if you're particularly sensitive about sluggish software. Even the best Sony TVs you can buy are limited to just a pair HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. Additional features — be them gaming-, A/V-related or otherwise — will come down to which series the TV belongs to. In general, you can expect lower-level Sony QLEDs to offer the lightest amount of bells and whistles, while higher-end models offer the most. That said, even if you're splashing out on a top-of-the-line Sony flagship, you ought to be aware of their limitations. At the time of publishing, even the best Sony TVs you can buy are limited to just a pair HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. This means only two of the four total ports will be able to make the most out of current-generation gaming consoles. What makes this issue even thornier is that one of the ports that offers HDMI 2.1 compatibility also serves as a dedicated eARC input. If you have two consoles and a soundbar, even the most expensive Sony TVs won't be able to make the most of all three. Needless to say, this is not the case with high-end TVs from LG and Samsung. Here's the simplest way I can put it: Sony's Mini-LED and OLED TVs will almost always perform better than budget-friendly Sony QLEDs that don't offer Mini-LED backlighting, but when comparing high-end Sony TVs, your mileage may vary. The flagship Bravia 9 Mini-LED TV looks incredible. It's one of the best Mini-LED TVs you can buy. The Sony A95L looks incredible, too. It's one of the best OLED TVs you can buy. Both of these sets will set you back a considerable amount of money, but deciding which is best for you will depend on your viewing habits. In either case, they're both better-performing TVs than the Bravia 7 — a terrific mid-range Mini-LED TV that is nevertheless mid-range for a reason. I'll once again direct you to our Mini-LED vs OLED guide for an in-depth comparison between these display technologies, but here's the basic gist: High-performance Mini-LED TVs typically offer better brightness than most OLED TVs, particularly if those OLED TVs use a traditional WOLED-style display, like the Bravia 8. However, a Mini-LED TV lacks the depth, clarity and unparalleled contrast control of an OLED. Many Mini-LED TVs come close to replicating the patina of an OLED display — the impressive Bravia 9 being a prime example — but pixel-level dimming control is ultimately the difference-maker. QD-OLEDs, like the Sony A95L, are capable of cutting the brightness gap even more. Its highlight brightness stands toe to toe with heavy-hitting Mini-LEDs (though full-screen brightness remains much dimmer). The addition of quantum dots also allows TVs like the A95L and the Bravia 8 II to deliver some of the brightest, most voluminous color in the industry. If you're chasing color, there's nothing quite like QD-OLED. Regardless of how much you're looking to spend on a Sony TV, you can be confident that the finer aspects of picture processing have been carefully considered. Many industry experts — myself included — laud Sony's attention to detail when it comes to things like upscaling, motion handling and out-of-the-box color accuracy. Much ink has been spilled about the so-called 'Sony tax' — a built-in upcharge for Sony TVs (relative to the competition) that some folks find hard to stomach. While it's true that Sony TVs are typically priced higher than comparable sets from rival brands, I've never found Sony prices to be out of bounds. Whether you're shopping for an entry-level Sony QLED or a top-shelf Sony OLED, you're very likely to get a well-engineered, well-designed TV that squeezes every ounce of performance out of whatever hardware is strapped to the panel. That said, I wouldn't blame anyone for carefully considering the value proposition inherent in competitively priced sets that tap the same tech and offer a similar slate of features.
Tahawul Tech
04-03-2025
- Tahawul Tech
Real vs fake: Unpacking the hottest innovation in TV tech
What is QLED and why does it matter when you buy a television? When it comes to technology in consumer electronics, it can be challenging to distinguish between marketing gimmicks and true innovation. Understanding what sets QLEDs apart is essential when choosing a television, as advanced display technologies directly impact picture quality, colour accuracy and the overall viewing experience. With advancements in nanotechnology and AI further shaping the industry, it is more important than ever to cut through the noise and identify innovations that deliver tangible benefits. So how can consumers distinguish true breakthroughs from bells and whistles and ensure they're investing in the real deal when it comes to QLED TVs? The truth about QLED At its essence, QLED technology is driven by quantum dots, with microscopic semiconductor particles of nanoscale size – ranging from 2 to 10 nanometres. That's unimaginably tiny, even invisible to the naked eye. To put this in context, a strand of human hair is approximately 80,000–100,000 nanometres wide. These tiny dots emit precise colours when exposed to light. They are layered on a quantum dot sheet, a critical component that ensures uniform light distribution across the screen. 'A great display is not just about brightness, it is about accuracy, consistency and how well it brings the content on the screen to life,' said Mohamad Sharif Oubaid, Director and Head of the Visual Display Division at Samsung Gulf Electonics. 'Quantum Dot technology gives QLED TVs the ability to deliver richer colours and deeper contrast, so what you see on screen stays true to the creator's intent, whether you are streaming your favourite TV show, gaming or watching live sports. Samsung's 19-year leadership in the global TV market has been enabled by the trust and support of our customers. We look forward to continuing to shape the future of the TV industry with innovations like AI-powered TVs, delivering products and services to enrich people's lives.' The Science Behind QLED Technology Creators, film directors, even consumer brands are extremely particular about how their visuals look to an audience. It's not just blue or red, but very specific blues and reds, mandated through rigorous guidelines on how these colours are reproduced. In the case of televisions, Quantum Dots technology provides the level of accuracy they want. Samsung's QLED TVs, for example, enable more than a billion colours, showing them how creators intended them to be seen. With 100% Colour Volume, Samsung QLED TVs Quantum Dot technology takes light and turns it into breathtaking colours that stay accurate in various levels of brightness. Why It Matters While many brands use the QLED label, not all TVs bearing this term meet the same standard of quality and authenticity. The key differences in Quantum Dot TVs lie in how the technology is implemented and overall quality of the display. A premium viewing experience also depends on three key factors. First, the amount of Quantum Dot content. At least 3,000 ppm of Quantum Dots are required for a meaningful difference in picture quality. Secondly, the quality of the Quantum Dot film – a key factor in determining colour representation and longevity in the ability to express vivid colours. Thirdly, consider QD material with no cadmium, for a safer, non-toxic viewing environment. Recognising the potential negative environmental impact of cadmium-based quantum dot solutions, Samsung led the charge with the industry's first cadmium-free Quantum Dot TVs, based on indium Phosphide (InP) instead. This is a new standard for eco-friendly display technology that consumers can trust. For consumers, understanding the science behind QLED technology is essential to making informed purchasing decisions. A real QLED TV offers not just superior picture quality but also peace of mind that the product is environmentally responsible and built to last. When choosing your next TV, look beyond the label. Delve into the technology, ask the right questions, and make sure your choice is backed by innovation and integrity.
Yahoo
27-01-2025
- Yahoo
OLED TVs vs QLED TVs: Which TV should you buy?
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. The TV industry is chock full of acronyms that can often bog down even the most knowledgeable of cinephiles when it comes to display technologies. But arguably the two most important you need to know when on the hunt for a new display are OLED TVs vs QLED TVs. OLED and QLED TVs are two very different types of displays with their own pros and cons. Thus, the battle over which might be superior isn't so cut and dry. Although we at Tom's Guide might praise the best OLED TVs for their improved picture quality, QLEDs have a lot going for them in terms of brightness and they're often a whole lot cheaper, too. To make matters more confusing, there are now more advanced technologies building upon these foundations in the form of QD-Mini-LED TVs and QD-OLED TVs. For example, TCL has a new series of "QD-Mini-LED" TVs and LG has announced that it's moving to a new four stack OLED panel structure. The variations and names might make your head spin, but we're here to narrow the field and best explain these technologies so you can pick the TV that's right for you. OLED, which stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode, describes the panel structure of the TV. OLED TVs are screens with organic materials that make up the foundation of the TV panel. OLED TVs have self-emissive pixels that produce their own light. That's good for a number of reasons that we'll get into in a few minutes. The exact structure of an OLED TV varies across manufacturers, but they essentially use organic films placed between two electrodes. When electricity passes through these layers, the electrons within release a special kind of energy: light. This light then bounces through the emissive layer with its organic molecules, turning light into a rainbow of varied colors, primarily blue, green, red, and yellow. I stress emissive here because that's one of the fundamental differences between OLED and QLED TVs. OLEDs are emissive whereas QLEDs (and LCD TVs before them) are transmissive. OLED TVs use pixels that emit their own light, but QLED TVs must rely on LED backlighting to ignite the on-screen pixels. The structure of these OLED panels varies across manufacturers. For instance, LG's WOLED panels use a stack of three emissive layers, whereas Samsung's QD-OLED panels use four. According to Ross Young, co-founder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), both manufacturers are adding a new emissive layer to their OLED stacks this year, bringing LG's 2025 WOLED panels to four and Samsung's 2025 QD-OLED panels to five emissive layers. The Samsung S95D OLED is an excellent 2024 model TV, and it's just dropped to a new all-time low price at Amazon. It packs a stunning OLED panel, excellent contrast and colors, and plenty of premium features perfect for gaming. Don't miss your chance to score this epic OLED for even Deal These changes are making newer OLED TVs much brighter, which tends to be where they fall flat. You might often see OLEDs touted as the best TV type in the space, but that's not entirely accurate. They offer the best black levels and contrasts at the cost of several leagues lower luminance than their QLED counterparts. And, often neglected when discussing them, OLED screens offer better energy efficiency. That's because they use those previously mentioned organic materials and don't require the use of a backlight to produce light. They also give off much less heat and usually come very thin. But OLEDs do suffer dramatically from burn-in. It's the big make-or-break-it issue that holds back many OLEDs, especially LG's. There are ways you can prevent OLED burn-in on your TV, but the reality is that OLEDs simply don't have the same life expectancy offered by QLEDs. So, what's the big deal with those QLEDs, then? QLED, on the other hand, stands for Quantum Light-Emitting Diode — though, Samsung denotes them as "Quantum Dot LED TV." QLED TVs are, simply put, LED-LCD TVs with a internal film filled with (you guessed it) quantum dots. It's these two technologies that are what separates QLEDs from OLEDs. QLED TVs need backlighting to light up these quantum dots and it's used in a variety of different ways. The main backlighting methods you need to know are Direct Full Array (FALD), Dual LED, and Mini-LED. The latter backlighting type has become one of the most popular forms of QLED TV as Hisense and TCL make headway in the market against their biggest rival in Samsung, who was the first to introduce consumer-ready QLED TVs in 2017. Dual LED TVs are much less common than FALD and Mini-LED backlighting, but it can be found mostly in several models of Samsung's The Frame TV. The Hisense U7N is a mid-range Mini-LED TV that specializes in bright, colorful HDR performance and gaming features. Its Mini-LED backlighting is especially nice to have at this price point, along with its support for 4K gaming at 120Hz or Deal Thanks to this backlighting, QLED TVs tend to have incredible brightness metrics. I'm talking upwards of 3,000 nits. Take, for instance, the Hisense U8N Mini-LED TV. Not only was it one of the highest-rated QLED models we reviewed last year, but it also sports a peak brightness of 3,397 nits in a 10% window in our testing. The closest any OLED TV has come to that metric is the Samsung S95D OLED TV, which topped out at 1,777 nits in a 10% window. That just goes to show how powerful QLEDs are against OLEDs in terms of luminance. But a step even further, like price, shows why QLEDs are so popular right now. The 65-inch S95D currently goes for $2,299 (on sale) while the U8N, at the same configuration, goes for just $899 (on sale). This is what makes QLEDs particularly appealing for those looking to get big-screen value. TVs are getting bigger, after all, and QLEDs in sizes over 65-inch tend to be pretty affordable in the face of those extra-premium OLEDs (and don't even get me started on Micro-LED TVs). LG did a great job of detailing how its new WOLED OLED panel structure works on its 2025 TV lineup. Its four stack OLED technology uses four emissive layers stacked, from the bottom, blue, green, blue and red (B-G-B-R). Its previous OLED TVs, like the LG C4 OLED, uses a WOLED panel that stacks layers as blue, green/yellow green/red, and blue (B-GYG-R). Essentially what this means is that its newest OLED TVs are bound to be some of its most color-accurate and colorful yet. Of course, LG's also touting some serious gains in brightness, claiming as much as 2,000 nits in a 10% window (specifically on its LG G5 OLED). That's totally bonkers, but not out of the question. And it's not just LG that's changing up its OLED panel strategy as Samsung has invited some new additions to its QD-OLEDs, as well. It's adding an extra emissive layer to its OLEDs, bringing the count to five for improved brightness and color. Both TCL and Hisense are changing the Mini-LED game. The former launched its QD-Mini-LED technology last year that aims to rival even OLED in picture quality. The new technology swaps in ultra-wide angle lenses and a 6-in-1 LED processor to deliver state-of-the-art performance, specifically targeting haloing and blooming in things like subtitles. At CES 2025, Hisense unveiled its 116UX Mini-LED TV that utilizes a new TriChroma LED panel devised by Hisense that similarly aims to improve highlights and colors on future models. Thus far, it's only available on its 116UX, but will probably find its way onto several other models in due time. As shown here, both technologies have their own pros and cons. OLEDs tend to be slightly better in terms of black levels, but it's hard to beat those brightness metrics out of Samsung, Hisense and TCL QLED TVs. Both are ever-improving, as well, and might be better served for particular pastimes, like OLED being more beneficial for gamers whereas Mini-LED is the hot spot for HDR movies. So, if you are on the hunt for a new TV, take stock in your living room situation or maybe underscore what you're getting the TV for specifically. Both technologies offer a superb TV viewing experience, but you'll want to match up the right technology to fit your space — and, most importantly, your budget. Shopping for a gaming TV? 3 to buy and 1 to skip Google TV vs. Android TV: What's the difference? This is the one thing to know before you buy a TV
