What To Know
- In some cases, light from the edges can bleed into darker areas of the screen, creating a halo effect around bright objects.
- If you prioritize a slim and lightweight design, uniform backlighting, and energy efficiency, an edge lit TV may be the better option.
- Understanding the differences between edge lit and direct lit backlighting is crucial for selecting the Samsung TV that best meets your needs.
Samsung TVs have revolutionized the home entertainment experience with their cutting-edge display technologies. Among the most significant choices when selecting a Samsung TV is the type of backlighting used: edge lit vs direct lit. This blog post delves into the intricacies of these two lighting techniques, providing a comprehensive comparison to guide your decision-making process.
What is Edge Lit Backlighting?
Edge lit backlighting, as the name suggests, involves placing LED lights along the edges of the TV panel. These lights project light towards the center of the screen, illuminating it from the sides. Edge lit TVs are typically slimmer and lighter than their direct lit counterparts due to the reduced number of LEDs required.
Advantages of Edge Lit Backlighting
- Thin and Lightweight: Edge lit TVs boast a sleek and lightweight design, making them ideal for space-constrained areas or wall mounting.
- Uniform Backlighting: The edge-to-edge lighting ensures consistent brightness across the entire screen, minimizing light leakage and creating a uniform viewing experience.
- Energy Efficiency: Edge lit TVs generally consume less power compared to direct lit TVs, as they require fewer LEDs.
Disadvantages of Edge Lit Backlighting
- Lower Contrast: The distance between the LEDs and the screen can result in limited contrast, especially in dark scenes.
- Light Bleed: In some cases, light from the edges can bleed into darker areas of the screen, creating a halo effect around bright objects.
What is Direct Lit Backlighting?
Direct lit backlighting employs an array of LEDs placed directly behind the LCD panel. These LEDs illuminate the screen from behind, providing more precise light control and improved contrast. Direct lit TVs are generally thicker and heavier than edge lit models due to the larger number of LEDs required.
Advantages of Direct Lit Backlighting
- Superior Contrast: The close proximity of the LEDs to the screen enables excellent contrast, resulting in deep blacks and vibrant whites.
- Local Dimming: Direct lit TVs often feature local dimming, where specific zones of the backlight can be adjusted independently. This allows for precise control of light output, minimizing light bleed and enhancing overall image quality.
- Wider Color Gamut: Direct lit TVs can achieve a wider color gamut, producing more lifelike and vibrant colors.
Disadvantages of Direct Lit Backlighting
- Thicker and Heavier: Direct lit TVs are thicker and heavier than edge lit models due to the increased number of LEDs.
- Higher Energy Consumption: The larger number of LEDs required for direct lit backlighting typically results in higher energy consumption.
- Potential for Clouding: In some cases, uneven distribution of LEDs can lead to clouding or discoloration in certain areas of the screen.
Edge Lit vs Direct Lit: A Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Edge Lit | Direct Lit |
| — | — | — |
| Thickness | Slimmer | Thicker |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Contrast | Lower | Superior |
| Local Dimming | Less common | Common |
| Energy Efficiency | Higher | Lower |
| Color Gamut | Narrower | Wider |
| Price | Generally lower | Generally higher |
Which Type of Backlighting is Right for You?
The choice between edge lit and direct lit backlighting depends on your individual preferences and viewing habits. If you prioritize a slim and lightweight design, uniform backlighting, and energy efficiency, an edge lit TV may be the better option. However, if contrast, local dimming, and color accuracy are your top concerns, a direct lit TV is recommended.
The Future of Backlighting
Samsung continues to innovate in the realm of backlighting technologies. MicroLED and OLED are emerging as promising alternatives to both edge lit and direct lit backlighting. MicroLED offers the ultimate in contrast and brightness, while OLED provides perfect blacks and wide viewing angles.
In a nutshell: Making an Informed Decision
Understanding the differences between edge lit and direct lit backlighting is crucial for selecting the Samsung TV that best meets your needs. By carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages of each technology, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your home entertainment experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which type of backlighting produces the best picture quality?
A: Direct lit backlighting generally offers superior picture quality due to its higher contrast and local dimming capabilities.
Q: Are edge lit TVs more durable than direct lit TVs?
A: The durability of a TV depends on various factors, including construction materials and design. Both edge lit and direct lit TVs can be durable with proper handling.
Q: Can I upgrade the backlighting of my Samsung TV?
A: Upgrading the backlighting of a Samsung TV is not typically possible as it requires significant modifications to the internal components.