When it comes to gaming displays, the choice between QLED and OLED technologies has become a hot topic among gamers. Both offer incredible display quality, but they do so in different ways. To make the best decision, you need to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each. Here’s a deep dive into QLED versus OLED gaming monitors, along with insights from some reliable sources to back up the analysis.
What Is QLED?
QLED stands for Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode. These screens use quantum dots to enhance the brightness and colour accuracy of traditional LED-backlit displays. The quantum dots work as a filter between the backlight and the screen, producing vivid, bright images with excellent colour saturation. Samsung popularised this technology, and many other brands have followed suit.
What Is OLED?
OLED, or Organic Light Emitting Diode, differs fundamentally from QLED. It doesn’t rely on a backlight. Instead, each pixel generates its own light. This means OLED can deliver perfect blacks by turning off individual pixels, something QLED can’t achieve. OLED technology is known for producing deeper contrast and rich colours. It has also gained attention for its ability to offer fast response times, a crucial factor for gaming.
Brightness: QLED Shines
When it comes to brightness, QLED screens outshine OLED displays. Thanks to the backlight technology, QLED screens can get incredibly bright. This is especially useful for gamers playing in well-lit rooms. High brightness levels enhance the overall image quality, making QLED monitors ideal for daytime gaming or environments where controlling the light is difficult.
OLED, on the other hand, doesn’t perform as well in bright conditions. Its self-lit pixels don’t offer the same level of brightness as QLED displays. While OLED delivers better contrast and black levels, its brightness struggles in rooms with direct sunlight or strong artificial lighting. Gamers who play in darker environments may not notice this issue, but it’s something to consider if you game during the day.
Contrast and Blacks: OLED Reigns Supreme
OLED takes the crown when it comes to contrast and black levels. Because each pixel on an OLED display can turn off completely, it achieves true blacks. This creates infinite contrast ratios, making games appear more dynamic and immersive. In dark scenes, OLED provides more detail, which can make a massive difference in games with shadowy environments.
QLED, by comparison, can’t deliver the same level of contrast. While QLED screens use local dimming zones to improve black levels, they can’t match the precision of OLED. You may see some light bleed or greyish blacks, especially in dark scenes. For horror games or titles where shadow detail is crucial, OLED’s ability to offer perfect blacks provides a more immersive experience.
Longevity and Burn-In: QLED Has the Upper Hand
One of the major concerns with OLED technology is burn-in. Burn-in occurs when static images remain on the screen for long periods, causing those images to “burn” into the display permanently. Over time, the image may leave a ghost like imprint on the screen.
QLED monitors, using traditional backlight technology, are not susceptible to burn-in. This gives QLED a distinct advantage in terms of longevity. Gamers who plan to use their monitor for several years without worrying about image retention should consider this factor when choosing between the two.
OLED manufacturers have made strides in reducing burn-in risk with various technologies. However, it remains a potential issue, especially for gamers who log long hours in the same game. For those concerned about their displays’s longevity, QLED offers peace of mind.
Pricing
OLED monitors generally come with a higher price tag. The technology behind OLED is more expensive to produce, and this is reflected in the cost. Gamers looking for the best display may feel OLED is worth the extra investment. However, for those on a budget, QLED provides a more affordable alternative while still offering excellent image quality. The difference in quality is often hard to notice unless compared side by side.
Both technologies have their place in gaming. Your decision should depend on your environment, budget, and gaming habits. Whether you choose QLED or OLED, both will offer an exceptional gaming experience. For gamers who want a high-quality monitor without breaking the bank, QLED often makes more sense.
Recommended QLED Gaming TV
Hisense 55 Inch 144Hz QLED Gaming TV 55E7KQTUK PRO. The 144Hz Game Mode Pro automatically activates on this Hisense QLED TV when a gaming connection is detected via HDMI 2.1 ports. Picture quality is enhanced by Quantum Dot technology, which accurately reproduces over a billion shades of colour for more natural and true-to-life hues. Currently available on Amazon for £549.00.
