There is no shortage of factors to consider when upgrading to a new TV. For example, while researching your options, you may have heard about quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) technologies and wondered if a QLED TV was a worthwhile investment. While there are absolutely circumstances in which a QLED TV may suit someone’s tastes and goals, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with some common drawbacks of QLED TVs before making a purchase.
QLED TVs use backlight units to transfer light through small semiconductor crystals to create light and images on the screen. This is different from how organic light-emitting diode (OLED) TVs work, in which each pixel generates its own light. Although QLED technology offers some advantages, such as maximum brightness, it is not without potential disadvantages. Knowing the downsides of QLED TVs can help you better determine whether this type of device is worth your money. For more general information, it’s also a good idea to research the main differences between OLED and QLED TVs in more detail.
QLED TVs don’t offer perfect black levels like OLED TVs can
Once again, with an OLED TV, the pixels generate light themselves. This means that pixels can also be turned off completely. As such, OLED TVs can deliver superb black levels and contrast.
This is not the case with a QLED TV. One of the main drawbacks of QLED TVs is that they cannot recreate the black levels of OLED units. Additionally, bleed-through effects are not uncommon with QLED TVs. This effect manifests itself as a haze around bright objects on a screen. Although the effect is not always noticeable, when it is, the result can be lines that are supposed to look sharp, but are instead blurred.
Keep in mind that you need to consider the space you are going to install a TV in when deciding which type is ideal. For example, while a QLED TV doesn’t offer the same black levels as an OLED TV, it can offer higher brightness. This makes a QLED TV a good choice for a very bright room or outdoor environment.
QLED TVs may be bulkier than OLED TVs
As for where you plan to install your new TV, be aware that a QLED TV may not be as thin as an equivalent OLED model. With a QLED TV, LED backlight, LCD panel, and quantum dot film are all essential components of the unit. These components take up a bit of space, generally making the overall unit thicker than an equivalent OLED TV. For this reason, you may face some limitations as to where you can install your new TV. For example, it may be difficult to fit a QLED TV into a narrow cabinet.
This is not to say that a QLED TV is too heavy for some consumers. Despite their added size, QLED displays still tend to be quite lightweight. They also come in a wider range of sizes than OLED TV screens. Although a QLED TV can sometimes be too thick to fit in specific spaces, it can still be a flexible option in terms of size and footprint.
Viewing angle is a major factor in QLED image quality
The impressive image on a QLED display can depend significantly on the angle at which someone is viewing the screen. The goal is to view a QLED screen from the front, from the center. Going down in size (or going up and down) may result in a decrease in color and overall brightness. This is another factor to consider when considering installing the new unit.
Remember, these are all things to be aware of. This doesn’t mean that no one should ever buy a QLED TV. Consider the fact that because QLED displays are immune to effects like burn-in that can otherwise affect OLED displays, QLED TVs can last longer. The goal is to make sure you fully understand the pros and cons of your different options. Equipping yourself with the proper knowledge can improve your chances of purchasing a TV that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
