It is not very easy for one to decide between the two or even which is better between the two; IPS, LED. In this article, you’ll know the detailed analysis of these technologies in 2024.This will ensure you make a better selection depending on your needs.

What Are IPS and LED Displays?

What Is an IPS Display?  

IPS is short for In-Plane Switching, and is a type of technology used in constructing an LCD panel. It was first launched by Hitachi in 1996 with the purpose of surpassing the flaws of TN (Twisted Nematic) panels such as having the ability to display such colors or not and inadequate angles for viewing.

IPS panels rearrange the liquid crystals to allow better light transmission for an improvement in color accuracy and consistency. This ultimately provides vibrant color, wide viewing angles, and minimal color distortion. Over time, IPS technology evolved. Offering response times and energy efficiency that made it the go-to professional display choice for pros in photography, graphic design, and video editing.  

What Is a LED Display?

LED is an abbreviation for Light Emitting Diode. In displays, LED is used to denote the backlighting system used in the LCD panels. Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp backlights are replaced by LED backlights which provide more brightness, energy efficiency and slender frame construction.

Even though LED displays have hit the market since the 1970s. It also became common among the consumer in the early 2000s. Currently, LED lamps and bulbs have taken hold of the market. With several panel types such as TN, VA, and even IPS using an LED backlight.

Worth noting is that IPS refers to panel technology. LED refers to the backlighting used in LCDs. So, an IPS display can well use the LED backlighting to implement the advantages of both technologies.  

How Do IPS and LED Displays Work?  

IPS Display Technology

The IPS display functions by aligning the liquid crystals parallel to the screen surface. Thereby helping to regulate the way light passes through the panel. This is also one of the reasons why IPS has a minimal light leakage that maintains brightness and color fidelity across the screen uniformly. 

Here’s how IPS technology works: 

1. Backlighting: The most prevalent in the use of IPS panels as a backlight is LED backlights. As they are most consistent in their illumination source.

2. Crystal Alignment: The liquid crystals’ orientation is parallel to the two glass substrates to regulate the passage of the light consistently. 

3. Light Diffusion: The crystals control the way light will pass through to create brilliant colors and wide viewing angles. 

Since IPS panel design enables you to view the screen from various angles without much color distortion. It is suitable for shared screen viewing. 

LED Display Technology

LED displays use light-emitting diodes as the primary source of backlighting for LCD panels. This backlighting method enhances brightness and reduces power consumption.  

Here’s how LED technology works:  

1. Backlighting: Tiny LED diodes are placed behind or along the edges of the panel.

2. Panel Structure: The liquid crystals in the LCD panel reflect the LEDs’ light to block or allow light through in certain places and thereby create the image. 

3. Local Dimming: In some LED displays, the ability of the display to dim locally enhances the contrast. By adjusting the brightness in certain zones.

In this regard, LED displays can be mated with various panel technologies like TN, VA, or IPS. It provides a wide range of choices for different use applications.  

IPS Vs LED: Key Differences

1. Image Quality

• IPS: The image quality of an IPS panel is of very high quality. Colors are accurate and there is great sharpness. Professional work that requires detail and color fidelity is best done on an IPS display.

• LED: The quality of images on an LED depends on the panel type. For example, TN panels all but abandon color accuracy in favor of speed. Whereas VA panels offer far more contrast. But still are not quite as color-accurate as their IPS counterparts.  

2. Color Accuracy and Vibrancy

• IPS: By far, the most accurate color representation is from IPS displays. Which can show colors just about as they are meant to be portrayed. Thus, they are ideal for graphic designers and photographers.  

• LED: These displays can offer great colors, but once again, it’s all about the panel technology used. LED IPS displays do quite well. Whereas TN panels mostly don’t measure up in terms of color accuracy.  

3. Viewing Angles

• IPS: Wide viewing angle 178 degree with minimal color distortion. This makes IPS suitable for collaborative work or situations where multiple people are viewing the screen. 

• LED: TN panels commonly used in LED displays have narrow viewing angles. VA panels offer only moderate improvement. 

4. Performance in Various Environments

• IPS: Works best in indoor or artificially lit environments. On the other hand, IPS displays have difficulty operating under very bright conditions.  

• LED: Scores high in terms of brilliance.  Hence, it’s more suitable for outdoors or in a well-lit room.  

5. Power Consumption

• IPS: Draws more power because the alignment of liquid crystals in IPS is pretty complex and requires more power to backlight them.

• LED: Very energy-efficient, requiring less power than standard LCDs.  

6. Response Times

• IPS: Exhibits slower response times in the region of 4-5ms average. Which can be quite unsatisfactory for competitive gamers.  

• LED: It can boast quicker response times.  Especially with TN panels. Hence suitable for gaming.  

7. Cost

• IPS: It is generally pricier because of its advanced technology and superior color accuracy.  

• LED: It offers a wide range, from very affordable. Even for budget-conscious buyers.  

8. Durability

• IPS: Durable but prone to backlight bleeding in case of improper handling.  

• LED: Long-lasting LEDs enhance overall durability. But the quality of the panels is variable depending on the type.  

Which Display Technology Is Best for Your Needs? 

Gaming 

LED displays with TN panels  are the most in demand for their fast response times and high refresh rates. However, IPS displays are starting to gain more converts for gaming. As their better colors and wider viewing angles make for a more immersive experience.

Professional Work 

IPS is the way to go for color accuracy, it is unparalleled, ensuring that your visuals come out precisely as they should and consistently so. That makes it a no-brainer for the creative professional. 

Casual Use 

In general use, such as web browsing, video watching, or office work, LED displays suffice. Brightness and affordability make them a practical choice for this kind of casual work.

Advantages and Disadvantages 

Advantages and Disadvantages of IPS Displays  

Advantages 

1. Wide Viewing Angles: It is completely possible to watch the screen from various perspectives without it causing any decrease in its quality. 
2. Color Accuracy: They show colors as no other panels do – absolutely realistic. Excellent for professionals.  
3. Consistency: Uniform lighting  and consistent colors make it reliable for precision tasks. 

Disadvantages

1. Higher Price: IPS displays are costlier compared to TN or VA panels.  
2. Slower Response Times: Not very well suited for fast-paced gaming.  
3. Power Consumption: IPS panels are more power graping because of their design.  

Advantages and Disadvantages of LED Displays  

Advantages

1. Brightness: LED displays are clearer and effective for outside or places where there is great light.
2. Energy Efficiency: It requires less power. Thus being very eco-friendly and budget-friendly.  
3. Affordability: It is offered across different price tiers suitable for different price points.  

Disadvantages

1. Poor Viewing Angles: TN panels, which are popular among LED displays at the moment, have low viewing angles.

1. Color Variation: Quality and accuracy may vary depending on the panel. Some do not stand up to IPS standards.  

Conclusion

Both IPS and LED displays have different needs they can cover. While IPS is peerless in color accuracy and viewing angles. It’s just perfect for professionals. LED displays, in turn, shine in brightness and affordability. Thus, allowing versatility in casual and gaming uses. Your choice, therefore, depends on your priorities.