What is QLED and why does it matter when you buy a television?
When it comes to technology in consumer electronics, it can be challenging to distinguish between marketing gimmicks and true innovation. Understanding what sets QLEDs apart is essential when choosing a television, as advanced display technologies directly impact picture quality, colour accuracy and the overall viewing experience.
With advancements in nanotechnology and AI further shaping the industry, it is more important than ever to cut through the noise and identify innovations that deliver tangible benefits. So how can consumers distinguish true breakthroughs from bells and whistles and ensure they’re investing in the real deal when it comes to QLED TVs?
The truth about QLED
At its essence, QLED technology is driven by quantum dots, with microscopic semiconductor particles of nanoscale size – ranging from 2 to 10 nanometres. That’s unimaginably tiny, even invisible to the naked eye. To put this in context, a strand of human hair is approximately 80,000–100,000 nanometres wide. These tiny dots emit precise colours when exposed to light. They are layered on a quantum dot sheet, a critical component that ensures uniform light distribution across the screen.
“A great display is not just about brightness, it is about accuracy, consistency and how well it brings the content on the screen to life,” said Mohamad Sharif Oubaid, Director and Head of the Visual Display Division at Samsung Gulf Electonics. “Quantum Dot technology gives QLED TVs the ability to deliver richer colours and deeper contrast, so what you see on screen stays true to the creator’s intent, whether you are streaming your favourite TV show, gaming or watching live sports. Samsung’s 19-year leadership in the global TV market has been enabled by the trust and support of our customers. We look forward to continuing to shape the future of the TV industry with innovations like AI-powered TVs, delivering products and services to enrich people’s lives.”
The Science Behind QLED Technology
Creators, film directors, even consumer brands are extremely particular about how their visuals look to an audience. It’s not just blue or red, but very specific blues and reds, mandated through rigorous guidelines on how these colours are reproduced.
In the case of televisions, Quantum Dots technology provides the level of accuracy they want. Samsung’s QLED TVs, for example, enable more than a billion colours, showing them how creators intended them to be seen. With 100% Colour Volume, Samsung QLED TVs Quantum Dot technology takes light and turns it into breathtaking colours that stay accurate in various levels of brightness.
Why It Matters
While many brands use the QLED label, not all TVs bearing this term meet the same standard of quality and authenticity.
The key differences in Quantum Dot TVs lie in how the technology is implemented and overall quality of the display. A premium viewing experience also depends on three key factors. First, the amount of Quantum Dot content. At least 3,000 ppm of Quantum Dots are required for a meaningful difference in picture quality. Secondly, the quality of the Quantum Dot film – a key factor in determining colour representation and longevity in the ability to express vivid colours. Thirdly, consider QD material with no cadmium, for a safer, non-toxic viewing environment.
Recognising the potential negative environmental impact of cadmium-based quantum dot solutions, Samsung led the charge with the industry’s first cadmium-free Quantum Dot TVs, based on indium Phosphide (InP) instead. This is a new standard for eco-friendly display technology that consumers can trust.
For consumers, understanding the science behind QLED technology is essential to making informed purchasing decisions. A real QLED TV offers not just superior picture quality but also peace of mind that the product is environmentally responsible and built to last.
When choosing your next TV, look beyond the label. Delve into the technology, ask the right questions, and make sure your choice is backed by innovation and integrity.