EdgeLED DirectLED FALD OLED. Lighting type TV LED

 The type of lighting (backlighting) of our LED TV is one of the characteristics to be considered when we are going to choose our new TV, although this characteristic is not usually advertised in advertising, it is one of those that we consider most important since it will greatly affect the quality. of image, specifically in the uniformity of the panel and in the light leaks. For more information on what characteristics a TV should have, you can read our TV Buying Guide.

What is LED backlighting?

LED backlighting is the way the TV turns on "the bulbs" so that the image can be seen, that is, how the diodes illuminate the screen.

Lighting type differences Which one is better?

There are 3 types of backlighting for LCD-LED televisions and apart from there are OLEDs.

EdgeLEDs are the cheapest and probably the worst too, the lighting is usually in the lower part and from there the entire screen is illuminated. The main drawback is that the lighting is not uniform and the main advantage is that they allow very thin televisions.

The DirectLEDs are the second step, these distribute the diodes throughout the screen evenly, this allows all the screen to be illuminated equally so it improves uniformity, on the contrary, the contrast is low, since when illuminating the entire screen they fail a little when there is much constrate since the blacks are also illuminated.

The FALD (Full Array Local Dimming) are the best, it is a version of the DirectLED but the diodes are controlled by zones, the "bulbs" are distributed throughout the screen but these are grouped together and can be switched on and off independently by groups of others so that in addition to presenting good uniformity, they allow better contrast.

What type of TV to choose?

Our budget will largely mark what type of panel our new TV will have.

The EdgeLEDs are the cheapest, they are recommended for those who do not go to watch TV in the dark, which is when the little uniformity of the light on the screen is most noticeable.

The DirectLEDs are not too widespread, good for watching TV, for sports and in general for content with little contrast

The FALDs are the best and are ideal for video games, cinema, ...

Conclusion

Our conclusion is that you should buy the TV that best suits your budget, always choosing a FALD panel if you can afford it, although this aspect is not advertised and it is not explained to you in the stores is very important and it is easy when you get home with your new TV: turn off the lights and put on some "dark" film, you will see clearly if the lighting comes from the edges or if it really is a FALD that controls the lighting independently.