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Insights into LED-Backlit HDTVs

By Darco | May 28, 2011

As if knowing the differences between HDTVs wasn’t hard enough, there are subtle but important distinctions between LED TV models. But first, what exactly is an LED TV? LED TVs are simply LCD TVs that use LEDs as backlights instead of CCFLs (cold cathode tubes). There are three different ways that LEDs can be used to illuminate the screen. The style of backlighting plays a major role in the final quality of your display, and knowing the differences can help you pick a better model for your needs.

1) Edge Lit LEDs
These are the most common LED-TVs found on the market, for good reason too. The LEDs are positioned around the rim of the screen, then diffused throughout the display with a special panel, producing a uniform color range throughout the screen. This style allows for extremely thin models; however, the inability to change brightness for local sections of the display results in blacks and whites that are not quite as true as they should be.

2) Full Array LEDs
These TVs are the most similar to standard LCD TVs. A full array of LEDs is positioned behind the display, the same way that CCFLs are arranged for LCD models. Models cannot be quite as thin, and the inability to make local changes in the brightness is a downside for this type as well. Due to both of these negatives, Full Array LEDs are not very common on the market. Pricewise, they are usually similar to Edge Lit models.

3) Dynamic Full Array LEDs
Like the regular Full Array style, an array of LEDs is positioned behind the screen. However, dimming can occur in local zones, resulting in darker blacks and brighter whites. These models are generally more expensive, but any TV connoisseur not worried about the width should choose this style.

Overall, LED TVs are almost always more expensive, but there are definite advantages in investing the extra money. Environmentally, they exhibit better energy efficiency and have a much longer life. Moreover, depending on which backlight style you choose, you can have a much thinner display or a more accurate display of colors.

Choosing the perfect HDTV is as simple as knowing exactly what you want, and knowing how available models will fulfill these needs. Hopefully now you will be able to differentiate between different LED TVs!

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