From conference rooms to lobbies, selecting the right video wall depends on the use case, space constraints, and budget. We will explore reasons to invest in a video wall, learn more about the differences between LCD and LED video walls and compare the advantages and disadvantages of each, and identify other factors to consider before you choose a video wall.
Why Invest in A Video Wall
Video wall technology is transforming modern environments, providing a powerful platform for dynamic content delivery. Integrating a video wall experience into your space creates a clean and bright image quality, creating an immersive viewing experience.
What is the Difference Between LCD and LED Video Walls?
The two major types of video wall displays are LCD and LED.
LCD Video Walls
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) video walls use thin bezel LCD displays arranged in a grid to create a seamless image or video display and are ideal for closer distance viewing. LCD video walls are a great option for conference rooms and training rooms to support high-resolution presentations and video conferencing with multi-display setups for interactive sessions.
Advantages Of LCD Thin Bezel Video Walls
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High Resolution: LCD panels typically deliver sharp visuals with small pixel pitches, making them ideal for displaying detailed information.
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Thin Bezels: Modern designs minimize seams, enhancing the visual continuity.
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Versatility: Easily integrates into multi-display modes for Zoom calls, training setups, or mixed-use environments.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than LED for similar resolutions.
Disadvantages Of LCD Thin Bezel Video Walls
- Bezel Seams: Even the ultra-thin bezels create visible interruptions in large walls.
- Lower Brightness: Less effective in high ambient light environments like open lobbies.
- Durability: LCDs generally have a shorter lifespan in 24/7 operations.
LED Video Walls
LED (Light Emitting Diode) video wall panels are more suitable for large formats and need to be viewed from farther distances away. LED video walls are typically recommended for boardrooms, open lobbies and home theaters because they deliver vibrant visuals, offer premium contrast and color accuracy and provide a bezel-free, polished viewing experience.
Advantages Of Traditional Video Walls (Direct-View LED)
- Pixel Pitch Flexibility: Offers a wide range, from ultra-fine pitches (<1mm) for boardrooms to larger pitches (2–4mm) for distant viewing in lobbies.
- Seamless Display: No bezels, ensuring uninterrupted visuals for immersive experiences.
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Brightness: LEDs can achieve high brightness, making them ideal for environments with significant ambient light.
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Scalability: Accommodates wider or taller walls without sacrificing visual integrity.
Disadvantages Of Traditional Video Walls (Direct-View LED)
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Cost - High upfront cost, especially for fine-pitch LED panels.
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Maintenance - Repairs can be more complex and expensive.
- Distance Limitation - Large pixel pitches may look pixelated up close.
What to Consider Before You Choose a Video Wall
Each environment is unique based on the specific space requirements and objectives. There is a lot to consider even before choosing between a LCD or LED video wall such as pixel pitch, brightness, aspect ratio, and whether a multi-display mode will be needed. Understanding technical terms like pixel pitch and multi-display capabilities ensures optimal configurations for conference rooms, training spaces, lobbies, and beyond.
Pixel Pitch
Pixel pitch is a key factor in determining the image quality and viewing experience. Pixel pitch is the distance between the centers of two adjacent pixels on a display, usually measured in millimeters. A small pixel pitch (0.4–1.5mm) is ideal for close viewing distances, such as in boardrooms or training rooms, where fine details matter. A large pixel pitch (2.5mm or higher) is better for larger spaces like lobbies, where viewers are farther away. For multi-purpose walls, selecting a balanced pixel pitch ensures versatility.
Brightness
Brightness defines how visible the display is under ambient light and is measured by nits.
High brightness (800–1,200 nits) is necessary for lobby displays or spaces with natural lighting. Moderate brightness (350–700 nits) suffices for conference rooms or training rooms with controlled lighting.
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio refers to the height-to-width ratio of the display. Maintaining flexibility in aspect ratio is key for multi-display setups or unconventional wall shapes.
Multi-Display Mode
Multi-display mode allows dividing a video wall into sections to display multiple sources, useful for Zoom and Teams calls, training sessions, or simultaneous content streams in lobbies. The multi-display design enhances engagement during meetings or training sessions and provides a centralized communication hub for large groups.
Which Video Wall is Right for You?
Choosing between LCD and traditional LED video walls involves balancing factors such as pixel pitch, brightness, and scalability against budget and space requirements. With the right choice, video walls can transform any environment into a cutting-edge, visually captivating space.
Consult a Video Wall Technology Expert
Profound Technologies is an expert in large format LED, LCD and video wall system design, installation, and configuration. They specialize in providing customized video display systems that match the user’s environment and support their mission or branding goals.
Schedule a free consultation with an AV video wall expert today!
