Should you buy a laptop with LED or OLED display

Gamers love a great display and so when it comes to brightness, contrast, and color, there is really no question: OLED is superior to LED.

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When it comes to choosing a laptop, one of the key factors to consider is the display type. LED (Light Emitting Diode) and OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) are two popular display technologies available in the market. In this article, we will explore the differences between LED and OLED displays and discuss whether it’s worth investing in a laptop with an OLED screen.

Understanding LED and OLED Displays

LED displays utilize semiconductor light-emitting diodes to display characters by turning on or off the lights. On the other hand, OLED displays employ organic light-emitting diodes or organic light-emitting displays. OLED technology has seen significant advancements in recent years, with monochrome, multicolor, and color devices reaching mass production levels.

The Advantages of OLED Displays

In the past, LED displays had been the go-to choice for laptops. However, OLED displays have emerged as a strong contender due to their impressive characteristics. One notable advantage of OLED screens is their ability to display true blacks. Unlike LED displays, which require a backlight and cannot be completely turned off, OLED displays can achieve pure black, resulting in higher contrast and more vibrant colors.

The difference in contrast between OLED and LED displays is quite significant, as demonstrated in various tests and comparisons. When an OLED display shows a pure black image, it registers zero brightness on the screen, highlighting the display’s ability to produce deep blacks and enhance overall image quality. The transition from gray shades to pure black can be observed not only in movies and TV shows but also in everyday tasks like browsing the web, making the viewing experience more visually appealing and reminiscent of print media.

Battery Life Considerations

While OLED displays offer remarkable visual enhancements, they do come with a drawback: battery life. According to tests conducted by Digital Trends, laptops equipped with OLED screens showed a decrease in battery life ranging from 10% to 25% compared to their LED counterparts. This impact on battery life is most prominent when performing tasks that require high screen brightness, such as browsing white backgrounds. However, for video playback with predominantly low brightness scenes, the impact on battery life is minimal.

The higher energy consumption of OLED displays can be attributed to the absence of a backlight. Since each pixel in an OLED screen emits light independently, fully illuminated OLED displays consume more power than LED displays.

Although the reduction in battery life may not be ideal for users who require long-lasting power, it may not be a significant concern for those who typically use their laptops for shorter periods of time.

The Cost of OLED Screens

Another aspect to consider when contemplating an OLED laptop is the cost. OLED displays are generally more expensive compared to LED displays. The additional cost of an OLED screen can vary depending on the laptop model. For instance, the OLED option for a laptop like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga costs approximately $125, while high-end laptops like the HP Spectre x360 with an OLED display can be priced at around $1500. As a result, mainstream laptops priced around $600 are unlikely to feature OLED screens.

However, for users considering purchasing high-end laptops, OLED displays are worth considering, despite the higher cost. The display is a vital component of any laptop, and its longevity surpasses that of other hardware components. In situations where there is a choice between upgrading the screen or the processor, opting for an OLED screen could be a wise decision. The sacrifice of some battery life may be acceptable if the visual enhancements are of greater importance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, OLED displays offer significant improvements in contrast, color reproduction, and overall visual experience. However, they do have a noticeable impact on battery life and come at a higher cost. If you are a user who prioritizes exceptional image quality and is willing to trade off some battery life, investing in a laptop with an OLED display may be worthwhile. However, for those seeking more budget-friendly options or requiring extended battery life, LED displays remain a reliable choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual preferences, usage patterns, and budget constraints.