LCD vs LED Monitors: What to Know About the Differences

The two big choices for monitors are liquid crystal display (LCD) and light-emitting diode (LED) models. When considering LCD vs LED monitors, there are some important differences you should know about. One important distinction comes from the technology itself. All monitors with LED backlighting use LCD in their displays, but not all LCD models have LED backlighting.

It may be tempting to go for the LCD monitor over one with LED backlighting, especially once price factors in. However, while there may be a lower price initially, there are reasons to consider investing in LED backlighting. In terms of lifespan and performance, LED monitors have LCD monitors beat. Learning the difference means not just saving money, but improving your quality of life.

LCD Pros and Cons

LCD monitors are made by suspending a layer of liquid between two pieces of polarized glass. The monitor does not produce light on its own. Instead, electric currents align the crystals in the liquid layer, allowing or blocking light as necessary. There are three main panel types for LCD monitors. These panel types are twisted nematic (TN) panels, vertical alignment (VA) panels, and In-Plane Switching (IPS) panels.

Many LCD monitors have LED backlighting, and previous models may use cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL) for backlighting. Owning an LCD monitor without LED backlighting has certain benefits and drawbacks as opposed to owning one with LED backlighting.

LCD monitors will generally be cheaper than monitors that also have LEDs. LCD monitors are generally not as energy efficient and larger and thicker than LEDs. They have no local dimming, and less illumination (this is especially apparent in dark rooms). They also have a shorter lifespan, and are difficult to repair and maintain.

LCD Screen with LED Backlighting: Pros and Cons

LED monitors are lit up with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These small bulbs behind the screen can vary in configuration, either with fully array backlighting or just edge lighting. Mini-LEDs can allow for even finer lighting control. Evenly distributing this light behind the monitor provides even lighting across the entire screen. Some even have HDR (high dynamic range) displays, which can dim parts of the screen depending on your needs.

Just like a straight LCD monitor, there are benefits and drawbacks to owning an LCD Screen with LED backlighting. LED LCD Monitors are energy efficient, thin, and lightweight. Since they’re so thin, they generate very little heat and still produce a short response time. The display has high contrast, constituent brightness, and a long lifespan. Some LED monitors have backlight dimming options for optimal contrast and color quality. LED monitors also contain no mercury in them.

However, this doesn’t mean they don’t have drawbacks of their own. Some edge-lit LED monitors can be hard to see from certain viewing angles. If the monitor’s viewed straight ahead, this shouldn’t be a problem. LED LCD monitors also cost more than LCD monitors. However, this is balanced out by total lifespan and cheaper maintenance costs.

The Difference is Clear: LCD vs LED Monitors Compared

When comparing LCD vs LED monitors, the major advantage of LCD monitors is their initial purchasing price. However, that lower price is mitigated by a shorter lifespan. LED monitors have a longer lifespan than LCDs, so in terms of overall value, they still win. If you’re getting the monitor for gaming, the LED monitor will be a better choice. This is due to the greater color accuracy, dimming capacity, and available viewing angles.

If you’re in the market for an LED monitor, consider the Samsung QB65B-N QBB Series. The QB65-BN QBB Series comes with a 65" LED-backlit LCD display in stunning 4K definition. It also comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty. Normally a monitor like this costs $2,519 full price. But at Rackfinity, we currently have it on special for $1,610 (saving over $900!)

Whether you’re looking for an LED or LCD monitor, Rackfinity has monitors to meet your needs.