Comparing QNED vs QLED – A Comprehensive Guide
These days, TV tech skyrocketed, and LG and Samsung are *leading the charge* with mind-blowing picture quality and performance.
As a result, consumers are faced with an array of options when shopping for a new TV.
Two of these cutting-edge technologies, QNED and QLED, offer impressive visuals and features that rival even the popular OLED TVs.
But how do they compare to each other in the QNED vs QLED debate, and which one is the better choice for your next TV upgrade? Let’s dive in and find out.
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Short Summary
The differences between the two technologies are also summarised in the table below:
| Parameter | QNED | QLED |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Quantum-Dot NanoCell LED, developed by LG | Quantum Dot LED, developed by Samsung |
| Quantum Dots | Yes | Yes |
| Unique Features | Uses a layer of nanoparticles (NanoCell) to absorb excess light and produce accurate colors. | Uses a metal quantum dot layer to produce brighter and more colorful TVs. |
| Peak Brightness | Up to 1,000 nits | Up to 2,000 nits |
| Contrast Ratio | High | Higher than QNED |
| Black Uniformity | Good | Superior to QNED |
| Color Accuracy | Excellent | Excellent |
| Color Gamut | Wide | Wide |
| Panel Type | In-Plane Switching (IPS) | Vertically Aligned (VA) |
| Viewing Angles | Superior (IPS) | Limited (VA) |
| Color Consistency | Better with IPS panel | Slightly less accurate when viewed off-axis |
| Response Time & Ghosting | Better with IPS panel | Slower response time and more ghosting (VA panel) |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision | HDR10+ |
| Gaming Features | HDMI 2.1 and Nvidia G-Sync | HDMI 2.1 and Nvidia G-Sync |
| Price | Generally lower than QLED | Higher than QNED |
I also have an article in which I have compared QNED TVs to OLED TVs. I highly recommend you check it out.
Understanding QNED and QLED Technologies
QNED and QLED represent the latest advancements in display technology, both developed as alternatives to OLED TVs, which have long been praised for their exceptional image quality.
LG’s QNED (Quantum-Dot NanoCell LED) and Samsung’s QLED TV (Quantum Dot LED) both utilize quantum dots, semiconductor nanocrystals that generate a broad spectrum of colors, to create stunning visuals.
However, each technology has its unique set of features and innovations that set them apart. QNED TVs feature a NanoCell display, which uses a layer of nanoparticles to absorb excess light and produce more accurate colors.
Samsung’s QLED TVs, on the other hand, use a metal quantum dot layer to produce brighter and more colorful TVs.
QNED: Quantum-Dot NanoCell LED
LG’s QNED technology, featured in the LG QNED TV, is a Mini-LED-based display that combines Mini LED backlighting, NanoCell, and Quantum Dot technology to deliver remarkable color and contrast performance.
The Mini LED backlighting system provides peak brightness levels and an enhanced contrast ratio compared to traditional LCD TVs, which enhances the overall viewing experience.
While QNED offers a similar experience to OLED displays, it does so at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for consumers who desire the benefits of OLED without the premium price tag.
For a more detailed view, check out my QNED technology guide.
QLED: Quantum Dot LED
Samsung’s QLED technology also relies on quantum dots to improve color and brightness. However, their Neo QLED iteration introduces Mini LED backlighting for even better performance.
The Mini LEDs are 1/40th the size of earlier models, resulting in a more efficient and precise backlighting system.
QLED TVs not only benefit from the quantum dots layer for improved color accuracy and a wider color gamut but also showcase Samsung’s Quantum Matrix technology.
This technology delivers precise dimming, optimized local power distribution, and a Black Detail Boost option to extract additional detail from darker areas.
Also read: Do QLED TVs Burn In?
Display Performance: QNED vs QLED
While both QNED and QLED technologies provide impressive display performance, there are some distinctions that set them apart. In this section, we will compare their brightness, contrast, color accuracy, and gamut to help you decide which TV technology is the right choice for you.
QNED TVs offer up to 1,000 nits of peak brightness, while QLED TVs can reach up to 2,000 nits. QNED TVs also have a higher contrast ratio.
Brightness and Contrast
QLED TVs are known to have higher peak brightness and better contrast ratios than QNED TVs. This is particularly evident in Samsung’s Neo QLED TVs, which boast even higher brightness and contrast levels thanks to their Mini LED backlighting system.
Black uniformity, which refers to the consistency of the black color on the display, is also superior in QLED TVs. This results in richer, deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, making it an attractive option for those who watch TV in dark rooms or enjoy high-contrast content like movies and games.
Color Accuracy and Gamut
When it comes to color accuracy and gamut, both QNED and QLED TVs excel. They both provide outstanding color accuracy and a wide color gamut, ensuring that the images displayed on the screen are true to the original source.
However, there are slight variations in color volume between the two technologies. While both technologies deliver impressive color performance, it is essential to consider the specific models and settings when comparing them, as these factors can influence the overall color accuracy and gamut.
Panel Types: IPS vs VA
IPS Vs VA Panels
Another aspect to consider when comparing QNED and QLED TVs is the type of panel used. LG’s QNED TVs typically use In-Plane Switching (IPS) panels, while Samsung’s QLED TVs employ Vertically Aligned (VA) panels.
Both panel types have their strengths and weaknesses, which we will explore in the following sections.
Viewing Angles and Color Consistency
IPS panels, used in LG QNED TVs, are known for their superior viewing angles and color fidelity. They provide consistent color performance across a wide range of viewing angles, making them an excellent choice for viewers who watch TV from various positions in the room.
On the other hand, VA panels, employed in Samsung QLED TVs, offer a deeper black level and a higher contrast ratio. However, this comes at the cost of more limited viewing angles and slightly less accurate color reproduction when viewed off-axis.
Response Time and Ghosting
In terms of response time and ghosting, VA panels found in Samsung QLED TVs generally have a slower response time and greater ghosting compared to IPS panels used in LG QNED TVs.
Slower response times and increased ghosting can result in motion blur and image ghosting, which can detract from the viewing experience, particularly during fast-paced action scenes or sports events.
However, it is essential to note that panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and the difference in response times between VA and IPS panels may not be as noticeable as it once was. For most viewers, either panel type would provide an adequate viewing experience.
HDR Support: Dolby Vision vs HDR10+
High Dynamic Range (HDR) support is another crucial factor to consider when comparing QNED and QLED TVs. LG QNED TVs offer Dolby Vision support, while Samsung Neo QLED TVs are compatible with HDR10+.
In the following subsections, we will explore the differences between these two HDR formats.
Dolby Vision in LG QNED TVs
Dolby Vision, supported by LG QNED TVs, is a high-dynamic range format that provides enhanced contrast, brightness, and color fidelity.
Dolby Vision employs dynamic metadata to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color of the image for an optimized viewing experience, leading to a more lifelike image with deep detail and vivid colors.
The primary advantage of Dolby Vision in LG QNED TVs is the enhanced HDR performance it provides. The use of dynamic metadata ensures that the image is consistently optimized for the most optimal viewing experience, resulting in a more realistic and immersive visual experience.
HDR10+ in Samsung Neo QLED TVs
Samsung Neo QLED TVs feature HDR10+, an advanced version of HDR10 that offers enhanced colors and contrast for displayed media. HDR10+ provides up to 4000 nits of peak brightness and employs dynamic metadata to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color of each scene.
HDR10+ in Samsung Neo QLED TVs offer adaptive HDR performance, which dynamically adjusts brightness, contrast, and color based on the content and viewing environment to optimize the viewing experience.
This adaptive performance ensures that images are always stunning and lifelike, regardless of the lighting conditions in the room or the content being displayed.
Check out Is it Worth Buying a QLED TV?
Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1 and Nvidia G-Sync
For gaming enthusiasts, QNED and QLED TVs offer features such as HDMI 2.1 and Nvidia G-Sync support, ensuring a smoother gaming experience and improved compatibility with gaming consoles.
HDMI 2.1 is an updated version of the HDMI standard that supports a range of higher spatial resolutions and improved frame rates, including 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz.
Nvidia G-Sync, on the other hand, is a technology developed by Nvidia that synchronizes the refresh rate of a TV with the frame rate of a GPU, minimizing screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag for a smoother gaming experience.
These features make both QNED and QLED TVs attractive options for gamers seeking an immersive and responsive gaming experience on their TVs.
Price and Value: Which Offers Better Bang for Your Buck?
In terms of price and value, QNED and QLED TVs offer comparable performance and features. However, QNED TVs usually come at a lower price range than QLED TVs. When making a decision, factors such as display performance, features, and brand reputation should also be taken into consideration.
Ultimately, the choice between QNED and QLED TVs will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Both technologies provide excellent image quality and performance, so either option would be a worthwhile investment for your home entertainment setup.
Alternatives to QNED and QLED: OLED and MicroLED
While QNED and QLED TVs offer impressive visuals and features, it’s worth considering alternative display technologies such as OLED and MicroLED.
OLED TVs are known for their superior picture quality, with independent dimming control, deeper blacks by switching off individual pixels, and more consistent colors when viewed from a wider angle.
MicroLED TVs, on the other hand, boast enhanced brightness and contrast, along with improved color accuracy and gamut.
These alternative technologies, including mini LED technology, may provide better contrast, color accuracy, and response times compared to QNED and QLED TVs, making them worthy of consideration when shopping for a new TV.
Also read: QLED vs. Plasma – Differences Explained
Summary
In conclusion, both QNED and QLED TVs offer remarkable image quality and performance, thanks to their use of quantum dots technology and innovative features.
While QLED TVs generally have higher peak brightness and better contrast, QNED TVs offer a more affordable alternative with comparable performance.
Ultimately, the choice between QNED and QLED TVs will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
By considering factors such as display performance, features, and brand reputation, you can make an informed decision and invest in a TV that will provide you with a stunning and immersive viewing experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between QNED and QLED?
The main difference between QNED and QLED is that QNED uses mini LEDs and a nanoparticle layer in front of the Quantum Dot filter, whereas QLED relies on full-sized blue LEDs for its backlighting.
This gives QNED TVs more accurate colors and deeper blacks compared to QLEDs.
Which is better OLED or QNED?
QNED offers brighter visuals and improved color accuracy, which makes it the better option for viewing HDR content. OLED, on the other hand, is still superior in terms of image quality, with deeper blacks, higher contrast and better viewing angles.
Ultimately, it’s a trade-off between brightness and image quality, so choose what’s right for you.
Is QNED worth the extra money?
For most consumers, QNED TVs offer an excellent balance between value and picture quality. Their picture quality is among the best on the market, making them a great investment for those who can afford it.
Ultimately, whether or not QNED is worth the extra money depends on individual needs and budget.
What are the benefits of QNED TVs?
The benefits of QNED TVs include improved picture quality, increased contrast and a higher level of brightness, allowing for more subtle shadows and details to be displayed.
Additionally, QNED TVs also reduce reflections on the screen, making them an ideal choice for high-quality home entertainment.
What is the difference between QNED and Neo QLED?
QNED and Neo QLED are two different technologies used in TVs. QNED stands for Quantum Nano Emitting Diodes and is LG’s technology which uses Quantum dots in combination with Nano Cell technology and Mini-LEDs. On the other hand, Neo QLED from Samsung is an upgraded version of QLED that also uses Quantum Dots and Mini-LEDs. Hence, there are some similarities between the two, but ultimately they differ in terms of composition.
Both technologies offer great picture quality and are used in high-end TVs. QNED is more energy efficient and offers better contrast and black levels, while Neo QLED offers better brightness.