#NanoCelltechnology

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OLED vs LED vs QLED

Digital technology has dramatically accelerated the development of various technologies in all areas, including the consumer electronics segment. Only in the last 10 years, companies have developed and implemented a huge number of various innovations, radically expanding the functionality of almost any household appliances. Modern robot vacuum cleaners, multi cookers, coffee machines, etc fully comply with this trend. Of course, the high-tech TV segment is no exception. HDR technology, including HDR10 +, HLG and Dolby Vision standards with support for 10 and 12-bit color depth, HDMI 2.1 standard with support for 48 Gbps, 4K and even 8K resolution, HFR (high frame rate) format, etc beautifully illustrate this trend. But the support of these technologies demanded a dramatic expansion of matrix capabilities. Therefore, most leaders pay a lot of attention to the development and improvement of matrix, which provide the image formation on the TV screen. As a result, fierce competition stimulates almost parallel development of several technologies. As a consequence, today the market offers a large number of models in each price segment with different matrices, but with approximately the same price / quality ratio. Of course, this situation is convenient for consumers, but often makes it difficult to choose. Therefore, even a simplified classification can partially solve this problem. As known, modern TVs use LED LCD, OLED and QLED technology to form an image on the screen. Of course, the development of efficient matrices and powerful modern video processors has allowed companies to dramatically increase the screen resolution, frame rate and color gamut, which directly affect the image quality.

LED LCD

Today this type is the most common. LCD (liquid crystal display) includes several layers of polarizing material with a liquid crystal solution between them, which regulates the passage of light. Almost all modern LCD matrix use LED (light-emitting diode) backlight. Thus, the LED LCD model includes a liquid crystal display with LED backlight. The light from the LEDs passes through the LCD panel, the surface of which is covered with integrated RGB pixels.

Many often call them LED screens. The pixel filters form a color image with a certain level of brightness. Imperfect black level is their main disadvantage.

As known, the contrast is equal to the ratio of the maximum levels of white and black, i.e. the brightness ratio at the brightest point of the screen to the darkest point. In turn, the contrast affects image detail and its range. Thus, low contrast depending on brightness provides high detail only for dark frame areas, but with blurred gradations of light fragments, or for light areas, but without gradations in the darkened area of the frame. Of course, this significantly reduces image quality. But companies are constantly improving technology, solving this problem. For example, FALD (Full Array Local Dimming) backlighting provides brightness control in the desired parts of the screen. This technology significantly improves the brightness and contrast of the image.

HDR technology solves this problem by transmitting dynamic metadata with information about the required brightness of each frame. Today it provides maximum image quality.

However, imperfect black initiated the development of OLED matrices that provide perfect black due to the lack of backlight.

OLED

This technology uses organic light-emitting diodes. In fact, each cell of the OLED matrix is a separate light source with individual brightness adjustment.

Of course, such a natural local backlight provides the most effective control of the black level and contrast. As known, LG released the first 4K OLED displays in 2014. Soon, Panasonic, Sony and Samsung also concentrated their efforts in this direction. Then, LG developed the WRGB technology with an additional white sub-pixel, which increased peak brightness and improved the playback of midtones and shades.

Features OLED technology: - very high contrast. For example, the 4K matrix contains about 820 million local dimming zones. Their provide an ideal contrast level due to a very deep black; - uniform illumination of the entire screen surface; - very wide viewing angles provide excellent color rendering and brightness level for any viewing angle; - a relatively short service life of the blue subpixel. The average service life is about 7000 hours or 2-3 years with an average intensity of work. Then, It begins to distort the color rendering due to degradation; - very high price. However, in 2018, LG for the first time offered 4K OLED B8 PLA at a relatively low price. Today, the cost of a 55-inch model is less than $ 1,500. In general, OLED provides significantly better quality than LCD.

QLED and Nano Cell

QLED uses LEDs on so-called quantum dots. Of course, technology is not related to quantum theory, and the name is due to marketing considerations. Today, Samsung uses the QLED term as a commercial name for its models. This technology uses an additional quantum dot-based nanofilter between the LCD display and the LED panel.

This film significantly improves brightness control, providing brighter and more saturated colors. In fact, the QLED display is improved version of LED LCD technology. In 2016, LG offered its own technology based on quantum dots, which was called the Nano Cell.

With some reservations, it can be considered an analogue of Samsung's QLED. The pixels of such matrices contain nanocrystals that glow and are painted in different colors as the electric current passes through them. According to the developers, it provides a more accurate color rendering even in comparison with the OLED technology, because each point forms its own color without mixing RGB colors.

Testing Samsung Q7F (QLED), LG B6 (OLED) and Samsung KS8000 (LED LCD)

Contrast Black level characterizes the minimum glow of the screen, the white level - the maximum. Contrast in this case corresponds to the ratio of black level to white level.

QLED uses a VA panel without local dimming. OLED provides absolutely black with infinite contrast. The Samsung KS8000 has one of the best contrast levels among similar LED LCD models. But this value can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer, the type of panel (VA or IPS) and the presence of local dimming. Of course, OLED wins this test. Color volume This value characterizes the accuracy of shades reproduction, which depends on the color gamut and brightness in three-dimensional space. As known, the color gamut characterizes the maximum number of color shades that the matrix can reproduce. Peak brightness characterizes the highest possible screen brightness level. Accordingly, the color gamut and brightness directly affect the color volume.

The built-in multi-HDR and brighter color rendering levels provide a 4% advantage for QLED compared to OLED. In addition, Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE) confirms 100% color accuracy for this model. In turn, OLED slightly surpasses even one of the best LED LCD. Thus, QLED outperforms the competition.

Conclusion

Thus, today OLED-models provide higher quality of a color rendering, clearness and contrast of the image. But today they are quite expensive and have a shorter service life. LED LCDs have a very good value for money due to their relatively low cost and are available in a wide range. QLED models today occupy an intermediate position. At the Invision Technology Showcase 2019, LG introduced new 4K OLED UHD C9 with AI image optimisation processor. LG product training manager Dean Little suggested to compare the image quality of the OLED C9 vs LG NanoCell 4K LED model with a wide viewing angle and high colour accuracy. This video offers his comments. Read the full article

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How to choose a TV

TV is one of the mandatory attributes of any modern apartment. The market responds adequately to high demand, constantly offering more advanced models. Therefore, today the choice of the optimal model is quite complex and depends on various criteria, which are constantly adjusted depending on the development of technologies. But even a simplified classification can help in TV choice taking into account the optimal set of innovative technologies and its price.

Main trends

CES exhibition of consumer electronics most effectively reflects the trends in this segment. Since 1967, it has been held annually in Las Vegas and demonstrates the flagship models of the main market leaders. CES exhibition 2017 revealed the following trends. Refusal of 3D technology. Samsung was the first to declare a refusal to use this technology in their models. Philips, Sony and LG also abandoned 3D technology in their flagship TVs. This is due to the lack of 4K 3D standards. Leading content providers also refused to create 3D channels. Thus, fans of this format are forced to use 3D glasses that is uncomfortable for many. The quality of screens that do not require 3D glasses is still low. Therefore, today, 3D playback is still concentrated in cinemas. Refusal of curved screens These models were first proposed by LG in 2013. Samsung curved models appeared later. Today it's the only company that continues to use them. Philips, Sony and LG have also completely abandoned this technology in their new models, since most consumers in America and Europe are not interested in buying them. Experts suggest that Samsung will also completely abandon curved screens. Improvement of picture and sound quality. Today, the efforts of companies are mainly focused on improving these innovative technologies. Ultra-thin design without frames A bright and contrasting image on such a panel creates the illusion of an image that freely floats in space. But, of course, this effect requires applying the latest technology. Brands. Today, Sony, LG, Samsung, Philips and TCL are most often positioned as leaders in this segment. The main innovations belongs to Sony, LG and Samsung. But the TVs of each company have key features.

Sony

The famous Japanese company occupies a leading position in the ratings of the best manufacturers for many decades. Full range of LED TVs in all price segments are the basis of their assortment. Premium BRAVIA A1 series with innovative OLED-displays is the main development of 2017. Stylish design, very high build quality and clear realistic image with excellent color rendering are major advantages of Sony TVs. Today the company produces its models in factories in Slovakia and Malaysia. Pros: - a wide range of diagonals from 32 to 100 inches; - use of different matrixes (OLED, IPS, VA) with a refresh rate of 60 or 120 Hz and Full HD or 4K (UHD) resolution; - highly effective proprietary image quality improvement technologies (Triluminos Display, Motionflow XR, 4K X-Reality PRO); - HDR support even in Full HD models; - the concept of frameless design (thin frames, hidden laying the wires, etc.). Cons: - high price; - Smart TV is focused on paid services.

LG

Leadership of this brand in terms of image quality is manifested in the premium segment, where the company offers a wide range of innovative OLED TVs. This line includes LG Signature, Ultra HD Premium series and even an inexpensive Full HD (1080p) model. The huge popularity of LG is also due to concept of Korean companies that is based on the production of high-quality, but quite inexpensive models based on LCD matrixes with LED backlighting of the budget and average levels, and innovative Super Ultra HD TVs with Nano Cell technology. A large number of free apps for Smart TV is an added advantage. Pros: - one of the most convenient Smart TV platforms on WebOS 3.5 with the ability to update (new models equipped with a Magic Remote console); - a wide range of panels with resolution from HD-Ready to 4K (Ultra HD); - using Active * HDR technology with support for HDR 10, HLG and Dolby Vision; - TVs with LG IPS matrixes provide bright colors and ideal viewing angles; - all LG OLED panels support Dolby Atmos since 2017. Cons: - limited memory is sometimes insufficient for WebOS, especially when playing high-definition video from the browser; - the headphone jack is absent in many models.

Samsung

Today Samsung is the most popular brand in terms of sales. Its huge model range with diagonals from 24 to 88 inches provides the optimal choice for any budget and apartment size. 4K QLED TVs with displays on quantum dots are its flagship ruler. The company has chosen this direction as the main one. But today it's still LCD TVs with LED backlighting without an ultra-thin flexible screen. Traditional Full HD and 4K LED models with VA matrices of 60 or 120 Hz are the basis of the Samsung model range. Pros: - wide range of Flat and Curved models; - highly effective firm technologies for improving the original image; - low value of the video signal delay is ideal for video games; - fast, convenient and easy to use OS Tizen for Smart TV; - One Remote with voice commands. Cons: - high price for some models; - the dependence of quality on the place of assembly.

Philips

Today, the dynamic background Ambilight backlight is the main advantage of Philips TVs and is often the main reason for preferring this brand. Unfortunately, the software for Smart TV is the main disadvantage of these TVs. Low-power hardware, slow software platform with weak support and rare updates are its main drawbacks. Today, this brand belongs to the Hong Kong (Chinese) TP Vision company. Pros: - Ambilight backlight automatically adjusts the color palette depending on the content. Unfortunately, the technology is available not in all models; - excellent price/functionality ratio; - very thin design; - good color rendering, high definition and contrast of the image; - remote control with radio transmitter. Cons: - settings menu is complex; - Slow Smart TV.

TCL

The very famous American-French Thomson company in the early 2000s ceased production of TVs and sold the right to use the trademark to Chinese TCL company. Today these models are competitive only in the budget niche. The range includes traditional LED TVs with a diagonal of 19 to 55 inches. Pros: - good quality/price ratio; - simple control; - thin stylish design; - a universal set of interfaces; - digital tuner for all models. Cons: - average level of software for Smart TV; - relatively small viewing angles. This video demonstrates the new LG 88 inch 8K OLED at CES 2019. Read the full article

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New 4K UHD Smart TVs with HDR right now

This review is updated regularly with new models Last updated: September 19, 2019 As known, fierce competition is one of the main trends in the consumer electronics segment. As a result, high competitiveness is a necessary requirement for any modern device. Of course, this criterion traditionally depends on price, quality and functionality.

Introduction

But this review does not analyze the modern pricing policy of companies. We can only mention that almost all companies set the maximum price for new products and reduce them in six months or a year, releasing the next model. Of course, practically all consumers know this aspect, often preferring past models. The quality of products from well-known companies has also reached its maximum due to the high cost of popular brands. As known, it has long exceeded hundreds of millions, and deterioration in reputation drastically reduces the brand’s capitalization. This aspect forces companies to ensure high assembling quality and use reliable components even in budget models. Already today, its further increase often significantly increases the model cost, reducing its competitiveness. Thus, the expansion of functionality has become the main tool for ensuring high competitiveness. But it, in turn, mainly depends on the use of innovative technologies. Of course, the high-tech segment of TVs is fully consistent with these trends. Therefore, almost all of its leaders annually offer models with innovative solutions and even new technologies. As a result, the market offers a huge number of different models. Of course, this abundance pleases consumers, but often complicates the choice of the optimal model. Various TOP lists partially simplify this task. Of course, the selection criteria for consumer are always individual. Some people attach great importance to new products, preferring the latest models. Other buyers are guided by the opinion of experts, who usually focus on the objective specs. In addition, many buyers prefer to form their opinions on the basis of consumer reviews, which mainly depend on the price / quality ratio. As a result, the content of these TOPs is usually different. This review offers different TOPs for modern TVs.

TOPs

Of course, this format does not imply a review of all the new 2019 TVs. This list contains only a few of the most promising models from market leaders that characterize common tendencies. It includes: - LG 4K HDR Smart OLED C9PUA TV w/AI ThinQ and LG 4K HDR Smart LED SM9500 NanoCell TV w/AI ThinQ; - Sony X950G 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV with HDR and Alexa; - TCL S425 4K UHD Smart Roku TV; - VIZIO P-Series Quantum X 4K HDR Smart TV. As a rule, the content of TOPs from experts depends on their individual opinions. However, many models are included in different TOPs, which confirms their high quality. Such a list of 2019 includes: - LG C9 (2019); - Vizio P-Series Quantum X (2019), Vizio P-Series Quantum (2018), Vizio P-Series (2018); - Sony A9F Master Series (2018); - Samsung Q8FN (2018); - TCL 6 Series (2018) Of course, Best Sellers are significantly dependent on sales volume and price. Therefore, TOPs from consumers often contain the most successful budget models. The 2019 list includes: - Toshiba 4K Ultra HD HDR Smart LED TVs; - TCL 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TVs; - Insignia 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TVs; - Samsung UN RU7100FXZA Flat 4K UHD HDR 7 Series Smart TVs with Alexa Compatibility; - Sony X800G 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV with HDR and Alexa Compatibility.

LG 4K HDR Smart OLED C9PUA TV w/AI ThinQ and LG 4K HDR Smart LED SM9500 NanoCell TV w/AI ThinQ

In 2019, LG convincingly confirmed its innovative leadership by announcing the first LG Z9 OLED TV with 8K resolution and a wallpaper-style design, and introducing the first Rollable TV. Undoubtedly, the LG Signature Roll Up R9 4K HDR OLED TV at CES 2019 made an indelible impression on the most unperturbed viewers. But the company was no less convincing in the segment of more traditional OLED and LED NanoCell models, introducing the gorgeous LG 4K HDR Smart LED SM9500 NanoCell TV, and LG 9C OLED TV. As known, LG C9 OLED has become an improved version of the most popular LG 8C OLED series 2018. The LG C9 provides an awesome OLED picture quality with unlimited contrast and huge viewing angles at a reasonable price up to $1,500 for 55 inches. Like all new LG models, the C9 uses an α9 Gen 2 Intelligent Processor and the excellent WebOS 4.5 with Alexa, supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, and Advanced HDR standards, HDMI 2.1 and Google Assistant. LG 65SM9500PUA LED NanoCell convincingly demonstrated the company's success in further development of NanoCell technology. Powerful α7 Gen 2 Intelligent Processor, realistic color with Nano Accuracy, and the full spectrum with Nano Color provide excellent image quality. In addition, the model uses the improved FALD Pro, which increases contrast by improving the LED dimming control. Today its price does not exceed $ 2,000. Moreover, the company promises to announce its first LG SM99 NanoCell TV with 8K resolution by the end of the year.

Vizio P-Series Quantum X (2019)

As known, Vizio TVs have long and successfully competed in the budget segment. But over the past few years, the company has introduced a line of TVs that successfully compete in the middle and even top range . For example, today, many experts include Vizio P-Series (2018), Vizio P-Series Quantum (2018), and, of course, Vizio P-Series Quantum X (2019) in their TOP lists. By far, the P-Series Quantum X has become the best Vizio TV. But it contains 65-inch Vizio PX65-G1 and 75-inch and PX75-G1 TVs only. Today, the cost of PX65-G1 does not exceed $ 2,000. Both models claim the status of brightest TVs, providing up to 3,000-nit peak brightness. For comparison, today HDR-capable TVs with 1,000-nit brightness levels are considered very bright. Of course, their very high brightness provides excellent contrast. In addition, quantum dot display covers about 95% of the wide P3 color gamut. As a result, the 65-inch PQX delivers image quality that is comparable to the LG OLED C9. But LG’s popular flagship costs $ 1,000 more. Main specs: - 4K (3,840 x 2,160) resolution; - Quantum dot display; - HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG support for HDR-content; - FALD (full-array local dimming); - 120 Hz refresh rate; - built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2 support; - DCI-P3/10-bit color space. Of course, their narrow viewing angle cannot compete with the super-wide angles of OLED models. In addition, they have occasional light bloom, and not ideal Smart platform. But their price with a margin compensates for all the shortcomings, providing these models with huge growth potential.

TCL 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TVs

As known, TCL LED TVs with tremendous triumph first appeared in 2017. Chinese TCL Corporation proposed TVs 4K HDR TVs with a built-in Roku smart platform, and a fairly high picture quality for an amazingly low price. As a result, the popularity of these TVs has been growing rapidly. For example, TCL 6 Series became one of the Best Sellers of 2018. It includes a 55-inch TCL 55R617 (Best Buy) / 55R615 (Amazon) for a little over $ 500, and a 65-inch TCL 65R617 / 65R615 up to $ 1,000. Their specs correspond to a very high level even for the middle price segment and are rapidly approaching the TOP level. They include: - 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160); - High Dynamic Range support (HDR10 and Dolby Vision standards); - great built-in Roku streaming platform with Roku remote; - FALD (full-array local dimming) LED backlight. At the same time, the price range for 55 inch models ranges from $ 350, for example, for the TCL 55S425 (2019). Of course, such a pricing policy ensures the enormous popularity of TCL TVs among consumers. This year, the company introduced the TCL S425 4K UHD Smart Roku TV series, priced from $ 280 to $ 1,000. Perhaps too low a price is the deliberate dumping of the company and it will increase it over time. But, today, most buyers are happy to take the opportunity to profitably buy TV.

Conclusion

In general, healthy competition has done a good job of giving consumers a great choice. 1. Today, LG offers the top-end 4K UHD HDR OLED Smart 9C for up to $ 1,600 for a 55-inch model. 2. In addition, LG and Vizio offer SM9500 NanoCell and PX65-G1 models with quantum dot technology for up to $ 2,000 for 65 inch TVs. Unfortunately, 55-inch models are not available in these series. 3. Additionally, TCL offers a huge selection of gorgeous budget 4K Roku Smart LED TVs. For example, a 55-inch TCL 55S425 4K Smart LED Roku TV (2019) costs less than $ 320. Thus, any consumer can easily choose the optimal model depending on the budget and individual preferences. We sincerely wish you the Right Solution! This video offers an overview of the 55-inch TCL 55S425 Smart LED Roku TV (2019). Read the full article