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What is an OLED TV, and how does it compare to other options?

When shopping for a new television, you might have encountered the term “OLED TV.” Renowned for their exceptional picture quality and sleek design, OLED TVs are considered a top-tier choice in the world of home entertainment.

But what exactly is OLED technology, and how does it compare to other TV options like LED, QLED, or LCD? Let’s explore everything you need to know about OLED TVs to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your home.

What is an OLED TV?

OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode. Unlike traditional LED or LCD screens, OLED TVs use a revolutionary technology where each pixel emits its own light. This means that every pixel can be individually turned on or off, resulting in stunningly accurate colours, deep blacks, and an impressive contrast ratio. OLD TVs emit less blue light compared to traditional TVs, reducing eye strain and making them more comfortable when watching TV for hours at a time. Recent studies have even shown that OLED TVs may help promote healthier sleep patterns.

How does OLED technology work?

In an OLED display, organic compounds generate light when electricity is applied. Because each pixel can emit its own light, there is no need for a backlight—a feature that sets OLED apart from other types of TVs. This unique design allows for:

  • Perfect blacks: Pixels can turn off completely, creating true black levels that enhance contrast.
  • Infinite contrast ratio: The difference between the darkest and brightest parts of the image is unparalleled.
  • Precise colours: Each pixel produces its own colour, leading to vivid and lifelike images.

What are the key features of OLED TVs?

  • Slim, modern design: Without a backlight, OLED TVs are incredibly thin and lightweight, making them a stylish addition to any living room.
  • Superior viewing angles: OLED screens deliver consistent picture quality from almost any angle, so everyone in the room gets the best view.
  • Minimal motion blur: OLED’s fast response time ensures smooth and clear visuals, even during fast-paced scenes.

View our full range of OLED TVs to find out more.

How does OLED compare to other TV technologies?

OLED vs. LED TVs

LED TVs use a backlight to illuminate their pixels, which limits their ability to achieve the perfect blacks and infinite contrast of OLED. While LED TVs can be brighter, they may struggle with colour accuracy and can appear washed out in darker scenes. However, LED TVs are generally more affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

OLED vs. QLED TVs

QLED (Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode) is a technology pioneered by Samsung that enhances LED TVs with a layer of quantum dots for improved brightness and colour. While QLED TVs can be brighter than OLED, they still rely on a backlight, which limits their ability to produce true blacks. OLED TVs, on the other hand, excel in dark scenes and offer superior contrast and viewing angles.

The Sony XR-65A95L Bravia XR Master Series is renowned for its wide colour range and exceptional image quality, perfect for movies and gaming. With a temperature sensor, high luminance panel and heat diffusion sheet for dissipating heat, this TV detects screen temperature and precisely controls light to deliver 200% as much brightness as its predecessor.

Want the best colour accuracy for your TV?

OLED vs. LCD TVs

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) TVs are the most basic and affordable option when it comes to TVs. They use a backlight and liquid crystals to produce images but lack the colour accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles of OLED. For those seeking a premium viewing experience, OLED is a significant upgrade. However, for casual viewers who prioritise budget, they may be an ideal option.

MicroLED (emerging technology)

MicroLED is a newer technology that combines the best aspects of OLED and LED. Like OLED, each pixel emits its own light, but MicroLED uses inorganic materials, which could potentially eliminate burn-in issues and extend lifespan. However, MicroLED TVs are still in the early stages of development and come with a hefty price tag.

View our summary of the different types of TVs below:

TV Type Pros Cons
OLED
  • Perfect blacks and infinite contrast
  • Superior colour accuracy
  • Excellent viewing angles
  • Exceptional performance in dark scenes
  • Higher cost compared to other types
  • Potential risk of burn-in with static images
LED
  • More affordable, suitable for budget-conscious buyers
  • Brighter screens compared to OLED
  • Limited ability to achieve perfect blacks
  • Colour accuracy can be lower, appearing washed out in darker scenes
  • Mediocre contrast compared to OLED
QLED
  • Brighter than OLED
  • Enhanced colour reproduction due to quantum dot technology
  • Relies on a backlight, limiting true black performance
  • Contrast and viewing angles are inferior to OLED
LCD
  • Most affordable option
  • Widely available
  • Lacks colour accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles compared to OLED
  • Basic image quality
MicroLED
  • Combines the self-emissive pixels of OLED with the durability of inorganic materials
  • No risk of burn-in
  • Potentially longer lifespan
  • Still in early development and often expensive
  • Limited availability
OLED 4K TV

Why choose an OLED TV?

OLED TVs offer a range of benefits that make them a standout choice for many households. Here are some of the reasons an OLED TV may be ideal for you:

  1. You struggle with eye strain when watching TV. If you find yourself suffering from headaches or eye strain after watching TV, an OLED TV may be the perfect option for more comfortable viewing.
  2. You are looking for a modern, slim design. The ultra-thin screens of OLED TVs blend seamlessly into any space, often doubling as a piece of art when turned off. Shop our range of OLED TVs to see this for yourself.
  3. You prioritise picture quality. The wide viewing angles of OLED TVs means everyone in the room gets the same exceptional picture quality, no matter where they’re sitting. With perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and vibrant colours, OLED TVs provide a viewing experience that’s as close to reality as possible.
  4. You are looking for the perfect TV for gaming. With low input lag and fast response times, OLED TVs are ideal for gamers who demand high performance.
  5. You prioritise energy efficiency. By eliminating the need for a backlight, OLED TVs can consume less power, particularly in darker scenes. If you are an eco-conscious buyer, an OLED TV would make an ideal option.

Are you looking for a new OLED TV? Shop our complete range of OLED TVs here.

Considerations when buying an OLED TV

Before investing in an OLED TV, there are a few factors to consider:

Consider your budget

OLED TVs are a premium product and are priced accordingly. While they are often more expensive than LED and QLED options, many users find the superior picture quality and design worth the investment.

Measure the space you have available

Most OLED screen sizes start at around 42 inches and go up to 88 inches or more, making them suitable for medium to large rooms. At Crampton and Moore, our OLED TVs go up to 97 inches. Smaller sizes are not typically available, so consider your space before purchasing.

Usage

Before purchasing an OLED TV, it is worth researching whether you will get enough use out of the TV and whether it is the right option for you.

OLED TVs are perfect for:

  • Movie lovers who want a cinematic experience at home.
  • Gamers who value responsive and immersive visuals.
  • Homeowners seeking a high-end, modern entertainment setup.

Do you have a specific brand in mind?

Popular brands offering OLED TVs include:

  • Samsung: Known for their picture quality and a responsible approach to business and global citizenship, Samsung TVs remain a top favourite among TV-savvy buyers.
  • LG: Known for pioneering OLED technology and offering a wide range of models. LG caters to various budgets and feature preferences, making it an excellent all-rounder.
  • Sony: Renowned for its premium picture processing capabilities. Sony delivers a premium viewing experience with unmatched detail and clarity, ideal for cinephiles and gamers alike.
  • Panasonic: Celebrated for its colour accuracy and cinematic quality, Panasonic is a strong choice for those seeking a home-theatre-like experience.
  • Hisense: Offering excellent value for money, Hisense OLED TVs pack solid performance and modern features into affordable models, making high-quality OLED technology more accessible.
  • Loewe: Known for its luxury craftsmanship and sleek designs, Loewe OLED TVs deliver stunning visuals and premium aesthetics, perfect for those who appreciate high-end European engineering.

View our OLED TV brands here.

Why choose Crampton and Moore?

At Crampton and Moore, we combine decades of expertise with a passion for premium home entertainment to help you find the perfect TV. As authorised retailers of leading brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG, we offer an extensive range of OLED and QLED TVs, competitive pricing, and expert advice tailored to your needs.

With excellent customer service, flexible finance options, and fast delivery, shopping with us ensures a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether you're upgrading your setup or buying your first premium TV, Crampton and Moore is the trusted choice for quality and value.

View our range of premium TVs here.

Frequently asked questions

What does OLED stand for?

OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode.

How is OLED different from QLED or LED?

OLED doesn’t require a backlight, allowing for perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and a thinner design. QLED and LED rely on backlighting, which limits their performance in these areas.

Are OLED TVs better for gaming?

Yes, OLED TVs offer low input lag, fast response times, and stunning visuals, making them an excellent choice for gaming. The vibrant colours and deep blacks make games more engaging.

What sizes are available for OLED TVs?

Most OLED TVs range from 42 inches to 88 inches, catering to a variety of room sizes. At Crampton and Moore, our OLED TVs go up to 97 inches, securing them as premium TVs with outstanding viewing quality.

How long does an OLED TV last?

Modern OLED TVs are designed to last for many years, with most manufacturers estimating a lifespan of 100,000 hours or more.

Do OLED TVs have issues with burn-in?

Burn-in is rare with normal usage and can be mitigated by varying the content displayed and using features like pixel-shifting.

Are OLED TVs worth the higher price?

For those who prioritise picture quality, design, and performance, OLED TVs are a worthwhile investment.

Where can I buy authentic OLED TVs in the UK?

Explore a wide range of OLED TVs from trusted brands at Crampton and Moore.

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