LED screens have become ubiquitous in today’s world. We can see their wide range of applications. For instance, stage, retail, meeting room, transportation, and so on. Many factors influence the quality of an LED screen, and one of the most critical is the viewing angle. In this article, we will explore the concept of LED screen viewing angle and its importance.
What is the LED screen viewing angle?
LED screen viewing angle is the maximum angle we can view without reducing image quality. Typically, we use degrees to define it. It is between the center of the screen and the point at which the image quality drops below a certain threshold.
LED displays have a directional light source. It means the light emitted from the LEDs travels in a straight line. As a result, it only appears bright and clear when viewed head-on. When viewed from an angle, the light scatters, and the image appears distorted and washed out. We can describe the viewing angle of an LED display from horizontal and vertical points.
Horizontal viewing angle:
The horizontal viewing angle is what we view from left to right without distortion of images. Therefore, it is an essential factor to consider for LED screens when there is a large audience.
For example, an LED screen for a sports event or concert should have a wide horizontal viewing angle. It ensures that everyone in the audience can see the action, regardless of location. On the contrary, a narrow horizontal viewing angle may suit an LED screen for a boardroom or control room. It is because you can view the screen from a limited number of positions.
Vertical viewing angle:
The vertical viewing angle of an LED display is different. It refers to the angle we view from top to bottom without degradation of image quality. We should consider this aspect when we mount the screen on rooftops or airports.
For instance, an LED screen mounted high up on a wall or ceiling needs to have a wide vertical viewing angle. So people walking below can see the content. In contrast, a narrow vertical viewing angle may be suitable for an LED display mounted at eye level. It is ideal for those advertising displays in retail stores.
Combining horizontal and vertical viewing angles:
When describing the viewing angle of an LED display, we use horizontal and vertical ones. For example, a screen with a viewing angle of 160° (horizontal) and 120° (vertical) has a wide range of angles. And we can view it from a big view angle.
Here, I emphasize one point. The viewing angle of an LED screen can vary depending on the screen’s size, resolution, pixel pitch, and so on. We recommend you consult the manufacturer about the maximum viewing angle. It would be better for you to make the purchasing decision.
Why is the LED screen viewing angle important?
The viewing angle is essential to consider when choosing an LED screen. It is because it can affect the viewing experience of the audience. Here are some reasons:
Audience experience:
The viewing angle determines the area where the audience can see the contents. If the viewing angle is too small, people sitting on the sides may not be able to see the content. It can lead to a poor viewing experience.
Display location:
The location of the LED display can also affect the viewing angle. For example, a wider viewing angle is necessary if you mount the screen high, such as in a stadium.
Multiple viewers:
When many people watch the LED display, we suggest you choose a wider viewing angle. This situation can be in a sports stadium or concert. It can ensure a perfect viewing experience.
Content design:
The viewing angle can also affect how you design the content for the LED screen. For example, placing the critical content in the screen center is better if the view angle is slight. In this way, the content stands out. And all viewers can see it.
Brand image:
The viewing experience can affect the brand image of an organization or event. So, it is vital to choose a wide viewing angle screen. It can create a high-quality view experience.
Factors that affect LED screen viewing angle：
Several factors can affect the viewing angle of an LED screen. Here are some of the elements:
Pixel pitch:
Pixel pitch refers to the distance between the centers of adjacent pixels on an LED display. A smaller pixel pitch means the pixels are closer together, which can result in a wider viewing angle. It is because the light from adjacent pixels can overlap. So it can create a smoother and more uniform image. In contrast, a larger pixel pitch means the pixels are further apart. And it can result in a narrower viewing angle.
LED technology:
The type of LED technology used in the LED display can also affect the viewing angle. Here we will elaborate on SMD (Surface Mounted Device) and DIP (Dual In-line Package).
DIP refers to through-hole LEDs. It has a narrower viewing angle compared to SMD LED screens. For larger LED screens, we can consider the DIP type.
Brightness and contrast:
Brightness refers to the amount of light an LED display emits. It can affect how visible the screen is from different viewing angles. In general, brighter screens tend to have a wider viewing angle. It is because:
- A brighter screen can overcome the effects of ambient light.
- It can maintain its contrast even when people view it from an angle.
Contrast ratio is the difference between the lightest and darkest shades of an image. High contrast screens can produce sharper and more vivid images. However, they can also be more sensitive to changes in viewing angle. For example, the LED screen contrast can decrease when we view it from an angle. So it can bring a loss of detail and clarity.
Most LED display manufacturers have developed some techniques to settle these issues. One method is to use materials that reflect light more evenly across the screen surface. For instance, anti-glare coatings or diffusing layers. Another one is to adjust the brightness and contrast of the screen. For example, some screens can automatically adjust their brightness and contrast levels.
Screen size:
The LED screen size also has an impact on the maximum or minimum angle. In general, larger LED screens need a bigger viewing angle than smaller screens. It is because larger screens have a greater viewing distance. It can increase the angle at which the light travels to reach the viewer’s eye.
Viewing distance:
As viewing distance increases, the LED display viewing angle also increases. This way, viewers can have an excellent experience.
Screen curvature:
Curved LED screens can provide a wider viewing angle. So it allows viewers to see the image more clearly from a greater range of angles. The screen curvature enables viewers to see the light more directly. It reduces the impact of ambient light and other environmental factors.
Screen coating:
One common type of LED display coating is an anti-glare coating. It can reduce reflections and glare on the screen. As a result, it helps to improve visibility and reduce eye strain. Anti-glare coatings are beneficial in environments with bright or uneven lighting. Reflections and glare are significant issues in such situations.
Another type is a matte coating. Its function is to reduce reflections and improve contrast. So, it can improve the LED viewing angle and make the image appear more uniform and consistent.
How to choose the right LED screen viewing angle?
It depends on a few factors to choose the right viewing angle for LED screens:
Determine the distance between the viewer and the LED screen:
The closer the viewer is to the LED display, the smaller the viewing angle needs to be. Conversely, a larger viewing angle may be more appropriate if the viewer is far from the LED screen.
Consider the placement of the LED screen:
If you mount the LED screen high, choosing the larger viewing angle is better. However, the viewing angle can be smaller if the LED screen installation is low.
Determine the size of the LED screen:
It is better to choose a larger viewing angle for more giant screens. It can ensure that viewers can see the entire screen.
Consider the content:
A smaller viewing angle may be more appropriate if the content is text-heavy. In this way, the text is legible. On the other hand, a larger viewing angle can be available if the content is more visual.
Test the viewing angle:
Before making a final decision, testing the viewing angle is always a good idea. You can ask an audience to view the screen to see if it meets their needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the viewing angle of an LED display is an essential factor to consider. A wide viewing angle is crucial to ensure the image quality remains consistent.
We also discussed several factors influencing an LED screen’s viewing angle. If considering them, you can get an LED screen to meet your specific needs. And it can provide a high-quality viewing experience.
