Best Ultra-HD Monitors: Choice of ZOOM
In principle, now manufacturers are able to assemble a monitor of an arbitrarily large size - of course, within reason - the angle of view of a person is far from 180 degrees. In reality, this means that the modern maximum is determined by the market at 34 inches (for a monitor). If you need more, you can always connect a computer to a TV, since universal digital inputs have left any distortion and deterioration of the picture in the past.
However, unlike the same TVs, increasing the diagonal of monitors is not an end in itself. The area of the monitor screen should be spent reasonably, and the image should combine eye comfort, maximum information content, color gamut and color accuracy. Of course, one can only dream of a wonderful combination of all requirements in one model - especially relying on the adequacy of the price. But if you look for the best samples by one or more related characteristics, it is quite possible to find what you want.
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Monitors with Ultra-HD resolution available today on the Russian market can be divided into several groups.
28" TN monitor group
The largest group is models with a TN matrix. The typical size of their display corresponds to a diagonal of 28 inches. For a resolution of 1920 by 1080 pixels, it is somewhat large, but 3840 by 2160 looks good here. The cost of such monitors starts from the border of 25-26 thousand rubles, which by the standards of the Ultra-HD class is very budgetary.
Samsung U28D590D
One of the most affordable monitors today is the Samsung U28D590D monitor. Its average price in Russian stores is 25 thousand rubles, but if you search, you can find a place where you will be charged a thousand or two less.
As mentioned above, the device belongs to the group of monitors using a TN + Film matrix with a diagonal of 28 inches. This factor is the main one for reducing the cost of Samsung U28D590D. As you know, TN+Film technology is distinguished by simplicity and low cost of production, a relatively small viewing area without the effect of "fading" of colors, a low level of contrast and a good response speed. The quality of color reproduction does not formally refer to the "natural" characteristics of the matrix and depends on the efforts of the manufacturer. The resolution of the Samsung U28D590D monitor is standard for Ultra-HD - 3840 by 2160 pixels.
For connection, the monitor uses a DisplayPort port or two HDMI 1.4a ports. This allows the Samsung U28D590D to display a picture in Ultra-HD resolution at 60 hertz. It should be noted that many more expensive monitors are limited to displaying Ultra-HD images at a frequency of no higher than 30 hertz.
Another “cheaper” feature of the Samsung U28D590D is its stand. It allows you to change the position of the monitor only by slightly tilting back at an angle of up to 15 degrees. The Samsung U28D590D does not have the ability to hang the device on the wall using a VESA mount.
According to the declared characteristics, the Samsung U28D590D matrix copes with the output of 1 billion colors (outputs color in 10-bit gamut per channel), has a contrast ratio of 1000: 1, a maximum brightness of 370 candela per square meter, a refresh rate (Gray to Gray) of 1 millisecond and viewing angles 170 by 160 degrees. Formally, the matrix is a high-class device.
Practical testing of the monitor shows that the matrix Samsung U28D590D really deserves a positive assessment of the user. Even factory settings will not disappoint most users. Using the same calibration, you can bring the functionality of the monitor to a very high level. Of course, the strictly professional use of the Samsung U28D590D as a working tool for an artist or photographer can be called into question, however, this monitor is up to any other tasks.
The Samsung U28D590D is a good fit for those who are serious about using an Ultra-HD monitor but want to save some money. High detail will be useful in games, and when working with office documents, and when editing images. Some disappointments, however, are possible due to scaling problems with some programs and games. Plus, Ultra-HD games can require a very powerful PC configuration that combines flagship graphics cards with the latest processors.
Acer XB280HK
If when buying a Samsung U28D590D monitor it is only supposed to be used as part of a gaming system, then for the Acer XB280HK model this mode of operation can be considered the main one. It's all about the NVIDIA G-SYNC module integrated into this monitor.
NVIDIA G-SYNC technology is a hardware-software complex, the task of which is to combat image freezing and desynchronization of the monitor and video card in games. The software part of NVIDIA G-SYNC is "hardwired" in universal drivers for NVIDIA GeForce series cards, while the hardware part consists of the new GeForce cards themselves and a special module installed by manufacturers in their monitors. There are already several such models in the class of monitors with Full-HD resolution, and there are no similar devices among monitors with Ultra-HD resolution, except for the Acer XB280HK.
The model was created on the basis of a TN + Film matrix with a diagonal of 28 inches and a resolution of 3840 by 2160 pixels. According to the declared characteristics, the color reproduction of the screen is 16.7 million colors (8 bits per channel). The maximum brightness of the screen is at the level of 300 candelas per square meter, the contrast is 1000:1, the refresh rate (Gray to Gray) is 1 millisecond. Viewing angles should reach 170 and 160 degrees.
The design of the Acer XB280HK stand allows the monitor to take a portrait position, you can adjust the screen height above the table and change the tilt angle by 5 degrees forward and 35 degrees back. On the body of the device is a VESA wall mount mechanism measuring 100 by 100 millimeters.
Interfaces Acer XB280HK include DisplayPort version 1.2, which allows you to transmit from the signal source image in Ultra-HD resolution at 60 hertz, and a hub with four ports USB version 3.0.
In general, from a formal point of view, the Acer XB280HK can be classified as a high-level model - the monitor has a good design and ergonomics and should show a nice picture.
In reality, the Acer XB280HK does a really good job with all non-specific tasks. When working with office programs, amateur work in graphics packages, watching movies and playing games, there are no questions about the image.
As for the unique properties of the monitor, based on the presence of the NVIDIA G-SYNC module, they are really up to par. The technology works within the framework designated by NVIDIA. And they, do not forget, suggest that G-SYNC becomes effective when you can run the game at a speed of 60 FPS (frames per second). Accordingly, you can see the technology in action at Ultra-HD resolution only on top-end configurations that include two flagship video accelerators of the GeForce series.
However, Acer XB280HK perfectly supports resolutions lower than Ultra-HD. For example, when detailing 2650 by 1440 pixels, the maximum matrix refresh rate is 144 hertz.
Group of monitors with IPS, PLS and IGZO IPS matrices with a diagonal of more than 30 inches
It's no secret that the use of IPS and PLS technology matrices in monitors can significantly improve image properties, bringing it closer to the professional requirements of working with graphics. Professional use of the monitor is also difficult to imagine without the ergonomic design of the device and its wide functionality. All this together significantly increases the cost of models in this group compared to those described above.
Samsung U32D970Q
What is meant by "noticeable increase in value"? For example, take the Samsung U32D970Q monitor. He is the same manufacturer that released the "budget" U28D590D. The "big brother" with a PLS matrix with a diagonal of 31.5 inches is priced three and a half times more - from 80 to 90 thousand rubles, depending on the luck of the buyer.
Naturally, with such costs, the Samsung U32D970Q is clearly defined as a professional tool and is expected to be easy to use and accurate in image transmission.
The PLS sensor installed in the monitor is Samsung's internal development. It provides 10-bit color accuracy per channel, giving a total color reproduction of 1 billion colors. According to the official specifications, the Samsung U32D970Q screen has a maximum brightness of 350 candelas per square meter, a contrast ratio of 1000:1 and an update rate (Gray to Gray) of 8 milliseconds. Viewing angles 180 by 180 degrees - which fully complies with the standards of PLS and S-IPS technologies.
The monitor stand allows you to rotate the Samsung U32D970Q, setting it in portrait mode, raise and lower relative to the level of the table, rotate around the vertical axis and tilt up to 25 degrees (5-20 degrees). An external image source can be connected to this model via DVI-D (HDCP), HDMI version 1.4, or one of the two DisplayPort ports. Also in the design of the Samsung U32D970Q, a USB hub of four inputs certified according to version 3.0 is provided.
The Samsung U32D970Q's ambitions as a pro tool are very clear on the monitor. Among them, the most interesting are the following things.
First, each instance is individually factory calibrated to 25 screen zones, after which the color coverage is 100% sRGB space and 99.5% Adobe RGB space.
Secondly, the possibility of dividing the screen into 2 or 4 independent zones, in each of which a separate picture is formed from a separate signal source.
Thirdly, the Samsung U32D970Q has an interesting function to display pictures in two color profiles at once. The choice here is between the main mode, High-brightness mode, sRGB, Adobe RGB, SMPTE-C, BT.709, EBU, DCI, DICOM color spaces and three monitor-remembered calibration settings.
Real use of the Samsung U32D970Q fully confirms its declared qualities. The model has excellent ergonomics, a large screen area, very accurate color reproduction, rich settings and excellent detail. The only thing the manufacturer was a little cunning about was the contrast. With problem-free output of snow white, the black depth corresponds to the declared value of 1000: 1 by hardly more than three-quarters.
DELL UP3214Q
Dell occupies a fairly strong position in the monitor market, so it would be strange not to expect a high-quality flagship model with Ultra-HD resolution from it. This was the monitor DELL UP3214Q with a screen diagonal of 31.5 inches. Its matrix is based on IGZO-IPS technology and has a standard resolution of 3840 by 2160 pixels.
The traditional advantages of IGZO technology are relatively lower power consumption and a noticeably smaller screen element size. Both are very useful for Ultra-HD monitors, so the appearance of such screens in this class of devices is quite expected.
Since the DELL UP3214Q screen structure is designated as IPS, everything is more or less clear with the basic characteristics of the model: the maximum brightness is 350 candelas per square meter, the contrast is 1000: 1, the view is 178 by 178 degrees, the Gray to Gray update rate is 8 milliseconds. The Sharp LQ315D1LG9D matrix used in the monitor provides 10 bits per color channel, which allows you to display more than a billion colors.
The communication capabilities of the DELL UP3214Q are quite wide. There is an HDMI 1.4 port and two DisplayPort ports (full-size and "mini") version 1.2. The latter is critical for maintaining 60Hz frame rates at Ultra-HD resolution. Also on the monitor body there is a hub for four (3 + 1) USB 3.0 ports and a slot for reading 6-in-1 flash cards.
Outwardly unremarkable monitor stand in terms of ergonomics is very good. It allows you to lower and raise the screen above the level of the table, rotate it around the vertical axis by 30 degrees in each direction and tilt it at angles from -5 to 20 degrees. DELL UP3214Q cannot work in portrait mode and the stand does not support rotation function.
From the point of view of professional practical use, the DELL UP3214Q is an expensive, but very good tool. The monitor is perfectly calibrated already at the factory, but at the same time it supports any additional calibration methods. The color gamut of the model is 100% sRGB and 99% Adobe RGB. Contrast and maximum brightness almost fully correspond to the declared ones.
LG 31MU97
Our topic "Best Ultra-HD Monitors" formally does not allow the inclusion of the new LG 31MU97 monitor in the review. The resolution of its matrix is 4096 by 2160 pixels - and this is already a full-fledged 4K with a DCP-P3 certificate from Digital Cinema Color.
However, this model cannot be ignored. It has just begun to enter the markets of the USA, South Korea, Germany, Australia and the UK and is of interest as a new generation of semi-professional monitors, focused on both graphics and home use.
The LG 31MU97 screen is based on a 31-inch AH-IPS matrix. Color rendering at the level of 1 billion colors corresponds to the output of 10 bits of information per channel. The monitor officially provides full coverage of the sRGB color space and 99.5% of the Adobe RGB space. The certified DCP-P3 already mentioned above is claimed to be 97% covered.
The technical characteristics of the matrix promise a maximum brightness level of 320 candelas per square meter, a contrast ratio of 1000: 1 and a Gray to Gray refresh rate of 5 milliseconds. A very good indicator for an IPS matrix, which makes us talk about the LG 31MU97 as a serious choice for completing a gaming station.
The design of the LG 31MU97 includes a hub for four USB 3.0 ports and an audio output.
Two HDMI 1.4a ports and built-in stereo speakers with a power of 5 watts each should help become part of the new generation media center LG 31MU97.
Professional use of the monitor for working in graphic packages, photo editors and modeling programs is provided by a wide range of calibration mechanisms (including the True Color Pro software package) and support for the image output mode already seen in the Samsung U32D970Q in two color profiles at once.
For all its versatility, LG 31MU97 tries not to scare the price. In countries where the monitor is already available for purchase, its cost is close to 1500 US dollars. About how much it will appreciate the Russian market will be known soon.
|
|
Matrix | Diagonal | Peculiarity | Price |
| Samsung U28D590D | TN Film |
28’’
|
|
i 25 000 |
| Acer XB280HK |
|
i 31 000 | ||
| Samsung U32D970Q | pls | 31,5’’
|
|
i 86 000 |
| DELL UP3214Q | IPS |
|
i 120 000 | |
| LG 31MU97 | 31"" |
|
1500USD |
Today, smartphones are so similar to each other in appearance and technical characteristics that manufacturers have to compete in other planes. Some offer top-end cameras, others offer case protection, and still others offer higher-quality screens that amaze the imagination. Let's talk about popular mobile display technologies: LCD, IGZO LCD, MLCD+, OLED and SuperAMOLED.
The average user of a mobile device does not look at the display except when using a smartphone for conversations. The rest of the time his eyes are glued to the picture on the screen. In 2018, it’s not enough just to have high resolution (although some manufacturers have succeeded here too) – you need to make the color reproduction as realistic as possible. What technologies are used for this?
LCD
Liquid Crystal Display, also known as LCD, or liquid crystal (LCD) display, is familiar to us not only from smartphones, but also from other electronics - TVs and laptops. The technology is based on liquid crystals of cyanophenyl, which change their position under the influence of an electric current. Following this, the polarization also changes, that is, these particles act as filters that pass a certain color spectrum.
LCD displays are used in inexpensive smartphones, but not all manufacturers use this technology. For example, Qualcomm reported that they could not combine scanners with LCD displays, as this requires expensive OLED matrices.
Advantages: good focusing and image clarity, minimum errors in beam convergence, minimum geometry violations, low weight.
Disadvantages: low brightness and contrast parameters, a small margin of mechanical strength.
IGZO LCD
The most interesting thing about this technology is how its abbreviation stands for. Indium gallium zinc oxide in translation means "Oxide of indium, gallium and zinc". These substances became the basis for a semiconductor material that is used as a channel for thin film transistors. The debut of IGZO technology took place in 2012 with a light prompt from Sharp, which demonstrated the first panels based on IGZO LCD at an exhibition in Berlin. They do not require constant updating when demonstrating stationary objects, so they save battery power, which is important for modern smartphones!
The IGZO LCD matrix is thinner and more transparent than IPS and LCD counterparts, does not need additional illumination and produces a high-definition image. These are the consequences of the fact that the transistors themselves have become smaller, and the electrons in them move faster.
If the first smartphones with IGZO LCD-displays were produced only by Sharp, later other manufacturers became interested in them. For example, this was done by Meizu, which, with a short break, released two smartphones with similar matrices: M2 Note and M6 Note.
Advantages: top resolution, energy efficiency, fast sensor response, maximum viewing angles, high brightness and contrast values.
disadvantages: price.
IPS
The first commercial matrices IPS (in-plane switching ) appeared in 1996 thanks to the joint efforts of Hitachi and NEC. By the way, the second uses the abbreviation SFT - Super Fine TFT to refer to this technology. Unlike LCD technology, IPS uses a different principle for the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules. The latter are in the same plane and rotate synchronously under the action of an electric current.
The first IPS displays had a long response time and high power consumption, but the technology has developed rapidly, and modern products no longer have these shortcomings.
Advantages: clarity and naturalness of color reproduction, wide viewing angles (up to 178 degrees), high brightness and contrast values, good detailing of small objects, energy efficiency, affordable price.
disadvantages: Slow response to screen touches.
Super AMOLED
This is the brainchild of the Korean company Samsung, which is kind to the image quality on their smartphones. Interestingly, this manufacturer puts Super AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode) matrices not only on flagship devices, but also on budget models. For the first time, the company began using displays of this type in 2009, and the first commercial smartphones with them - Samsung Wave and Samsung Galaxy S - went on sale in 2010. The technology is based on organic light-emitting diodes, which are used as light-emitting elements. They are controlled by an active matrix of thin-film transistors.
The flagship Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 +, announced in 2018, received frameless SuperAMOLED displays with QHD + resolution. Compared to the previous generation matrices, they have increased the brightness level by 13%, which is now 1000 nits.
In Samsung smartphones, matrices of this type fit snugly against the screen itself, so there is no air gap between them. This primarily affects the compactness of the design - it is thinner than that of display units made using other technologies.
Super AMOLED matrices are considered one of the most economical, as their power consumption decreases proportionally when the screen brightness decreases. The color range that they reproduce is 32% larger than that of LCD matrices. However, with intensive work at maximum brightness, the service life of the display quickly decreases - consider this if you buy a smartphone for 3-4 years.
Advantages: energy efficient, thin screen, maximum viewing angles, rich realistic colors, decent performance in direct sunlight, high contrast and brightness, response time - about 0.01 ms.
disadvantages: Brittleness, fast pixel burn-in, violet and blue tint at low brightness values.
Along with Super AMOLED, Samsung uses Super AMOLED Plus matrices. They have less graininess in the image and better color reproduction. The company managed to achieve this thanks to Real-Stripe technology.
MLCD+
The second name of this technology is M+ LCD. Such displays differ from LCD solutions in the white pixel that LG has added. She first did this in 2015 with her new line of TVs. Later, information appeared about the release of the LG G7 ThinQ smartphone with a screen made using a similar technology.
White complemented the three previously used subpixels: red, green and blue. By changing the transparency of the white sub-pixel, more combinations of shades can be achieved. This brings the quality of such an image as close as possible to that obtained using the Super AMOLED matrix.
In the summer of 2018, Apple announced that it plans to use MLCD+ displays in new iPhone smartphones.
Advantages: energy efficiency, high contrast, small thickness.
Disadvantages: graininess, low reliability.
OLED
Organic LED, also known as OLED (organic light-emitting diode) is a technology that is based on the use of organic polymers of a multilayer structure. They emit their own light when an electric current is passed, while LED LCDs use external illumination for sub-pixels. For the same reason, OLED panels are more compact than LCDs.
OLED displays retain the natural color reproduction of the image at any viewing angle and, most importantly, do not need additional backlighting. Matrices of this type are considered less harmful to the eyes, since they use selective illumination. LEDs turn on only in the area where it is needed.
Advantages: fast response, high contrast, natural color reproduction.
Disadvantages: high cost, short service life of some phosphors (primarily blue).
OLED matrices are often used in smart watches and fitness bracelets. Most often these are monochrome panels with good contrast and economical use of energy. In many ways, this is what allows fashionable gadgets to work without recharging from several days to a couple of weeks.
What technologies are gaining popularity?
It is unlikely that you have heard of Micro-LED technology (aka ILED), but meanwhile it has every chance of becoming popular in a few years. Unlike OLED, Micro-LED uses an inorganic light-emitting diode. Smartphone manufacturers are expected to be interested in the technology due to its advantages: high brightness and contrast values, minimal response time, compact size, the ability to increase image density up to 1500 ppi and low power consumption. So far, Micro-LED panels are difficult to manufacture, but the process is expected to become cheaper in the future.
Quantum Dots technology (aka QD-LED and QLED) has adopted something from liquid crystal displays, but in its case we are dealing with even smaller crystals with a glow effect. Matrices of this type are distinguished by natural color reproduction, which Sony has already used in practice, releasing a QD-LED TV in 2013. Mass production is still hampered by the labor intensity and high cost of production.
How else are the displays of mobile gadgets different?
In the screen modules of recent years, not only technology is important, but also image clarity. While some manufacturers boldly install Full HD (1920 × 1080) and Full HD + (2160 x 1080) resolution matrices on smartphones in the middle price segment, others attract buyers with 2K and even 4K displays - with a resolution of 2560 × 1440 and 3840x2160, respectively. Even more eloquently about the clarity of the image says the PPI parameter - the number of dots per inch. The more of them, the less grainy the picture will be. Although already in Full HD resolution on a diagonal of 5.5 inches, you can hardly see individual pixels.
Many novelties are on sale with 2.5D displays. This designation has nothing to do with “under-three-dimensionality”. This is the marketing name for a shaped edge around the perimeter of the screen, which makes the edges of the screen smoother. In this design, the device looks more premium, but adds to the worries of the owner. Now it will be difficult for him to find high-quality glass, and the protective properties of a conventional film that manufacturers recommend sticking on are highly questionable.
Apple was the first company to use 2.5D glass in smartphone screens.
An even more advanced option is 3D glass. It can be curved in the most unpredictable way - for example, in the center (in a horizontal or vertical plane) or along the edges. The most striking examples of smartphones with 3D screens are LG G Flex and Samsung Galaxy Edge.
In the near future, we expect smartphones with flexible folding OLED displays from Samsung, full frameless displays and those that occupy the entire front surface of the device. Will they become popular soon? We'll see in 2-3 years.
Articles and Lifehacks
Back in 2012, the Japanese Aquos SH930W model appeared on the Russian market.
This smartphone used IGZO screen matrix, the production technology of which is actively promoted by its manufacturer.
Since then, such displays have repeatedly appeared in economy-class devices, but the technology has not yet received mass distribution.
What is IGZO technology
The question is often found on the Internet: which is better - IGZO or IPS? Its staging itself is illiterate and incorrect, since it can be made using this technology.In essence, it is a variation of the more familiar TFT (thin-film transistor), used to form pixel control elements in any modern types of display matrices: TN, IPS and AMOLED.
IGZO has no direct relation to light-emitting elements.
But, since, due to historical circumstances, OLED screens are almost a monopoly fiefdom and, Sharp is engaged in LCD displays, and not only for mobile devices.
Therefore, most of the IGZO matrices are a type of IPS.
The abbreviation itself means Indium gallium zinc oxide: oxide of indium, gallium and zinc. This semiconductor material replaces the amorphous silicon used in traditional IPS screens to form thin film transistors.
Its key advantage is a radical (up to 40 times) reduction in the response time and transparency of the resulting structures.
What are the benefits of IGZO
- IPS displays made in accordance with this technology have a very low response time comparable to TN matrices. This significantly improves the accuracy of control of touch devices.
- Another, no less important, plus is the increased pixel density. This makes it possible to create matrices with extremely high resolution - up to 4K.
If the first samples of IGZO matrices had a pixel density of about 460 ppi, which was quite enough to get FullHD resolution on the diagonal of a smartphone, then in 2014 a display with a pixel density of 736 pixels was introduced, thanks to which a resolution was achieved in a 4.1-inch matrix. WQXGA - 2560x1600 pixels.
A year later, a 5.5-inch IGZO display with a resolution of 2160x3840 was announced.
However, amorphous silicon matrix technology also did not stand still, and around the same time, a silicon IPS display with 4K resolution was used in the Sony Xperia Z5.
- The use of IGZO can reduce the power consumption of the LCD compared to silicon TFT. In addition, the matrix is thinner, which is very important for developers of mobile devices.
- As for the cost of production, it is also lower, but only in the case of matrices with a not too high pixel density.
prospects
Since 2011, a lot of information has appeared in the media about the possibility of using IGZO screens in new models.
It would seem that they were confirmed by the transfer of the Kameyama plant No. 1, owned by Sharp, for production for the needs of the Yabloko. But in practice, this technology did not appear in iPhones and iPads.
Instead, there is an active development of a competitor - LTPS matrices, the control layer of which is created on the basis of low-temperature polycrystalline silicon.
As a result, it has an even higher electron mobility, resulting in a minimal response time.
Finally
The elimination of the main part of the "childhood diseases" of OLED displays has significantly reduced the prospects for the development of liquid crystal matrices in mobile devices.No, no one is going to immediately abandon LCD screens in favor of organic light-emitting diodes, but the development of a number of promising projects has noticeably stopped.
Among them is the IGZO technology, although it was a step forward in its time, but today it is already somewhat inferior to the much more widespread LTPS.
And if models with screens based on it still appear, then these events are episodic.
IGZO is an acronym that stands for "Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide". This very oxide is a semiconductor material that is most often used in the production of transparent thin film transistors. The use of IGZO has become especially popular with the spread of touch panels (as in smartphones and tablets), as this material can be a substitute for amorphous silicon for an active LCD screen and lead to improved accuracy and sensitivity of touch panels. At the same time, the use of IGZO leads to a decrease in response time and a decrease in pixel size, which is beneficial for display technologies.
The race for mobile pixels continues. Once we seemed to get used to the fact that almost all modern smartphones are equipped with FullHD displays, as it becomes known from the news that this year's flagship devices are likely to start adapting 2K resolutions. However, even before 2K resolution becomes the standard among most smartphones on the market, manufacturers seem to be already thinking about how to move from 2K resolution to 4K resolution.
The Japanese company has replenished with a new monitor model, made according to the standards of energy-efficient technology. The novelty has a screen diagonal of 32 inches and a working resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K). In the manufacturer's assortment, the monitor was called PN-K321.
We continue the section on how to choose the right smartphone that will delight the user. We have already talked: what are, what is better, the pros and cons. Today we will talk about choosing a smartphone screen. The topic is quite complex and extensive, since by now there are many technologies for the production of displays, their protection, in addition, they are presented in a variety of diagonals, with different ratios, and so on. It is the screen that often becomes a stumbling block when choosing a smartphone. It is not surprising. The display is exactly the part of the device with which we have to work more. In case of the wrong choice, it is likely that the screen will cause a lot of inconvenience: poor picture quality, low brightness, poor sensitivity. But do not worry, today we will touch on each of the aspects, telling you about all the intricacies of choosing a smartphone screen.
Smartphone matrix type
It is worth starting with the type of matrix. In many ways, the quality will depend on the choice of the type of screen matrix. So, today it is customary to distinguish three varieties:
- TN+film
- AMOLED
The first two are based on liquid crystals, the second - on organic light emitting diodes. Each of the types is represented by several subspecies (in the case of IPS, more than 20 different ones), which one way or another are found in the production of panels.
Some of you are wondering: "Where is the TFT?". Due to ignorance of some resources, this abbreviation is often used as a designation for the type of matrix, which is incorrect. The term TFT refers to thin film transistors used to organize the operation of subpixels. They are applied practically in each of considered types of matrices. Transistors are also available in several varieties, one of which is LTPS (polycrystalline silicon). LTPS is a relatively new subspecies, which stands out for its lower power consumption and more compact transistor sizes, which is also reflected in pixel sizes. As a result: a higher pixel density, a better and clearer picture.
TN+film
Back to matrices. Most of the matrices familiar to us, as already noted, are liquid crystal, that is, LCD. The principle is to polarize the light that passes through the filter, turning into the appropriate colors. The first of the varieties of liquid crystal matrices is TN + film. With the spread of "film" was dropped, shortening the name to "TN". The simplest type, which by today is rather outdated and is used only in the cheapest smartphones (and even then, you still have to find it). TN cannot boast of good viewing angles or contrast, and has poor color reproduction.
In general, avoid TN when choosing a smartphone screen - the type is outdated.
IPS
Next comes IPS. This technology is also not young - the age has already exceeded 20 years. Meanwhile, IPS-matrices are the most widespread in the smartphone market. Open any online store, choose the first smartphone that comes across and make sure of my words. This type of matrices is presented both in the budget segment and in the flagship one. In addition to improved performance, when compared with TN, IPS received a large number of varieties. However, you should not understand everything - two types of dominance are divided in the smartphone market: AH-IPS and PLS. Their creators are the two largest companies in South Korea and the whole world: LG and Samsung, respectively. What is the difference? She is practically non-existent. Matrices of two types are like twin brothers, so you can not be afraid to choose a smartphone with any of them. Identity has even been the subject of litigation between companies.
IPS boasts wider viewing angles than TN, good color reproduction, and a high pixel density, resulting in a gorgeous picture. But the power consumption is about the same - in any case, LEDs are used for illumination. Since there are quite a few varieties of IPS matrices, they also differ in their characteristics. This difference can be seen even "by eye". Cheaper IPS can be too faded, or vice versa - have an oversaturated color. It complicates the choice of a smartphone screen in that manufacturers are often silent about the type of matrix.
Definitely, when choosing between a TN and IPS screen, preference is given to the latter.
AMOLED
An even more modern type, which is common today, as a rule, among high-end smartphones. AMOLEDs are organic light-emitting diodes that do not require external illumination, as is the case with IPS or TN - they glow on their own. Already at this point, their first advantage can be distinguished - smaller sizes. Further - AMOLED is represented by more saturated colors. Black looks especially good, during the display of which the LED simply fades out. AMOLED displays are more contrasty, boast wide viewing angles and lower power consumption (there are nuances). Just a fairy tale, right? But before choosing a smartphone with an AMOLED screen, you should learn about its shortcomings.
The main disadvantage is considered to be a shorter service life compared to IPS. After a certain period (as a rule, after three years changes in color are observed), on average, after 6-10 years, pixels begin to “burn out”. Moreover, bright colors are especially prone to fading, so users often use dark themes in order to extend the service life. In addition, power consumption is greatly affected by the brightness of the colors on the screen. If a bright picture is displayed in bright colors, then AMOLED consumes more energy than IPS. Finally, OLED arrays are more expensive to manufacture.
Be that as it may, this does not negate the manufacturability and quality of AMOLED. Sores in the form of "burn-in pixels" are gradually cured, and subspecies of matrices appear that are getting better. For example, Super AMOLED. This variety appeared seven years ago, bringing a lot of improvements. Power consumption has been reduced, brightness has been increased. In addition, the air gap between the tach and the matrix has disappeared, which increased the sensitivity of the screen, and also eliminated the ingress of dust.
AMOLED today is considered the most technological matrices that are actively developing. If until recently they were used mainly in Samsung smartphones, today they are chosen by a huge number of smartphone manufacturers (almost every major brand has presented a solution with an AMOLED screen.
Design features of smartphone screens
But not only the type of matrix should be taken into account when choosing a smartphone screen. There are still a whole bunch of features that affect the final quality of the picture and the feeling of using it. We will focus on the most important points.
Air gap
Until recently, the screens of all smartphones were represented by two components: the touch layer and the matrix itself. Between them there was an air gap, the thickness of which depended directly on the manufacturer. Naturally, the thinner the layer, the better. Companies regularly reduced the air gap, making the picture quality higher and viewing angles wider. Relatively recently, it was possible to completely get rid of the air gap thanks to OGS technology. Now the sensor layer and the matrix are merged together. Despite the significant improvement in quality, there is an obvious drawback. In case of damage to the OGG screen, it will have to be replaced completely, while in displays with an air layer, only the glass takes the blow.
Be that as it may, more and more manufacturers are choosing OGS screens. Yes, and we advise you to give preference to this technology. Believe me, you don't have to worry about the complicated repair of the feelings that you will experience when using such a display.
A relatively recent thread that Samsung brought to the market with its flagship Galaxy S6 Edge (there was also a Galaxy Note, but only one edge was bent there). The South Korean manufacturer will continue to develop the idea in subsequent smartphones, but the rest of the companies did not share the idea too much. The company bends the right and left sides of the devices - the screen seems to float on the ends. This is done not only for the sake of spectacular appearance, but also for the convenience of the user. Additional functions are brought here, notifications can also be displayed here. A fascinating feature, but not everyone needs it.
Samsung managed to implement the curved display most successfully, therefore, if such a design is interesting, we advise you to consider the solutions of the South Korean brand.
An even more recent trend is bezel-less screens. The progenitor is Sharp, which showed the first frameless smartphone back in 2014, but users were attracted by the frameless Mi Mix shown in 2016. By the summer of 2017, a number of companies announced their intention to release such gadgets. Today, the market is rapidly filling up, with the newest models costing less than $100.
To date, there are several variations of the bezel-less screen: elongated displays that have reduced bezels at the top and bottom; familiar displays, devoid of frames on three sides (except the bottom). The first type includes the Samsung Galaxy S8, a pair of smartphones from LG (G6 and). To the second -, Doogee Mix, Xiaomi Mi Mix and many others, whose ranks are constantly replenished.
Frameless smartphones look really cool, and the low cost allows everyone to try out modern technologies.
The well-known company Apple in the iPhone 6S introduced a new technology at the time of release - 3D Touch. With it, the screen began to respond not only to touch, but also to the force of pressing. Technology began to be used, as a rule, to perform any quick actions. Also, 3D Touch made it possible to work with text, draw with great comfort (the brush reacts to the force of pressure), and so on. The function did not become something completely unusual, but it found its user. Later, a similar technology appeared 6, was also announced in .
Touch screen type
Not a particularly important criterion when choosing a smartphone screen, but, nevertheless, let's dwell on it a little. There are several types of touch displays: matrix (very, very rare) resistive and capacitive. Resistive screens were ubiquitous until recently, but today they are only found in very rare and cheap smartphones. This type is different in that it reacts to any touch: with a finger, a pen, or at least control another phone. It supports only one touch, it does not always work accurately. In general, an obsolete type.
Capacitive screens are vastly superior to their predecessors. They already support more than one simultaneous touch, have better sensitivity, work much more accurately. However, their production is more expensive.
Like it or not, the vast majority of companies have abandoned resistive screens in smartphones. And this is for the best. In addition, the cost of capacitives is constantly decreasing, which allows manufacturers to install them in the cheapest smartphones.
Another important aspect when choosing a smartphone screen is the number of simultaneous touches. This parameter determines what operations you can perform on the display. The first smartphones equipped with resistive screens were limited to one simultaneous touch, which was not always enough. The screens of modern smartphones often support 2, 3, 5 or 10 simultaneous touches. What gives a large number of simultaneous touches:
- Scaling and zooming. One of the first features that appeared in the iPhone - the first smartphone with support for two simultaneous touches. For example, you can reduce or enlarge images by pinching or spreading your fingers on the screen.
- Gesture control. Multiple fingers make it possible to use various gestures.
- Management in games. Most modern games require the use of several fingers at the same time.
Do not chase support for 10 simultaneous touches if you do not play on a smartphone. For the vast majority of users, 5 touches are enough, and even less demanding ones will not experience discomfort with 2.
Significant parameters when choosing a smartphone screen go hand in hand. The diagonal of the display reflects its dimensions in inches.
An inch corresponds to 2.54 centimeters. For example, the screen diagonal of a 5-inch smartphone in centimeters is 12.7 centimeters. note: Diagonal is measured from corner to corner of the screen, excluding bezels.
What screen size to choose? You will have to answer this question yourself. The market of modern smartphones offers a variety of diagonals, starting from about 3.5-4 inches, ending with almost 7 inches. There are also more compact options, but you can ignore them - working with miniature icons is not very convenient. The best way to choose a diagonal is to personally hold the smartphone in your hands. If you are comfortable using one hand, then the diagonal is “your”.
It is also impossible to recommend specific numbers because each person has a different hand size, finger length. One and 6-inch is comfortable to use, the other - and 5 inches is a lot. It is also worth considering that smartphones with the same diagonal can be of different sizes in general. A simple example: a 5.5" is comparable to a 5" model with regular bezels. Therefore, when choosing a smartphone screen, it is also desirable to take into account the thickness of the frames.
Be that as it may, there is a tendency to increase the diagonals of the screen. If in 2011 the vast majority of users were limited to 4 inches, then in 2014 the largest percentage belonged to 5 inches, today the market is captured by solutions with 5.5 inches.
With permission, the situation is simpler.
Resolution reflects the number of pixels per unit area. The higher the resolution, the better the picture quality. Again, the same resolution looks different on two different diagonals. Here it is worth mentioning the density of pixels per inch, which is denoted by the abbreviation PPI. Here the same rule as in the case of resolution: the higher the density, the better. True, experts do not agree on the exact figure: a number claims that a comfortable value starts at 350 PPI, others give large numbers, and others give smaller ones. At the same time, it is worth remembering that human vision is very individual: someone will not see a pixel even at 300 PPI, while the other will find something to complain about even at 500 PPI.
- with a diagonal of up to 4-4.5 inches, most smartphones get a resolution of 840x480 pixels (about 250 PPI);
- 4.5 to 5 inches HD resolution (1280x720 dots) is a good choice (density ranges from 326 to 294 PPI)
- more than 5 inches - you should look towards FullHD (1920x1080 pixels) or even higher resolutions
The latest Samsung smartphones and a number of models from other companies receive a resolution of 2560 × 1440 pixels, which provides high pixel density and a clear picture. The recent flagship from Sony was even presented with a 4K screen resolution, which at 5.5 inches guarantees a record 801 PPI.
Screen coverage
Until recently, the screens of mobile devices were covered with ordinary plastic, which quickly scratched, distorted the color rendition, and did not feel very tactile. It was replaced by glass, which does not care about the keys lying around in your pocket. Now on the market there is not a single type of glass that differs in strength and, accordingly, in price. 2.5D glass, curved from the edges, has gained particular popularity today. They not only guarantee high reliability, but also give the smartphone a more stylish look.
In addition, the screens of modern smartphones have a special oil-repellent coating (oleophobic layer), which provides good finger gliding and prevents stains. To determine the presence of an oleophobic layer, it is enough to place a drop of water on the screen. The better the drop retains its shape (does not spread), the better the layer.
Naturally, the quality of the oleophobic layer and glass affect the cost of the smartphone. You will hardly find a budget model that can boast the same durable glass as the flagship solution. Today, the most popular manufacturer of protective glasses is Corning, whose line ends with Gorilla Glass 5.
Additional screen
If one display is not enough for you, then a number of companies offer smartphones with additional screens. They are usually small, but serve to display notifications. And YotaPhone 2, known to many, offers a second E-link display that occupies the entire back side, which is convenient to read. In the LG lineup there are solutions with a small screen that displays notifications. Recently, a similar smartphone with an additional screen was noted by Meizu with its flagship.
The second screen is a rather peculiar feature that not everyone needs. Nevertheless, such smartphones find their user, and more than one.
Conclusion
Well, they seem to have told about all the intricacies of choosing a smartphone screen. The material turned out to be quite extensive, we hope that everyone will find answers to their questions. You should not chase the most expensive screen, but it is also contraindicated to save too much - we are looking for that very golden mean. Although the current mobile electronics market itself will direct you in the right direction, pointing out what is popular and in demand. Today, the risk of stumbling upon a low-quality display, which will be dull when pressed, is much lower, manufacturers have significantly raised the quality bar. Even third-tier companies use quite solid matrices in their ultra-budget smartphones. Well, we can only wish you good luck in your choice.
By the way, the line of articles on the criteria for the right choice does not end there. We have already talked about that, check it out. Materials on the topic of choosing a processor and cameras will appear soon, so subscribe to notifications and the Vkontakte group.
