It is understandable if you are confused about all the different acronyms in ultra-high-definition (UHD) televisions. There are so many labels for the same technology that it can be challenging to track what each one means and which features are essential.
In the case of QLED and crystal UHD televisions, these two labels describe two significant aspects of the television's performance and capabilities. Both acronyms stand for something specific, but it can be challenging to determine precisely what.
Fortunately, this article will explain exactly what each term means concerning QLED and crystal UHD TVs and assist you in deciding which is more important for your specific needs.
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What Does QLED Mean?
QLED stands for quantum dot LED. The first two components of the acronym are reasonably simple to understand; a quantum dot is a specific type of nanocrystal. The dots are used to make various types of display technology. In the context of televisions, quantum dots are used to improve the quality and brightness of the panel's backlighting. This helps to create a more vivid and lifelike picture, even when the screen is viewed in less than ideal conditions. QD-LED also helps to improve the color performance of the TV and allows for more accurate color reproduction. This is due to the quantum dot's ability to adjust its size and surface charge in response to the light intensity and wavelength.
What Does Crystal UHD Mean?
Crystal UHD televisions are made with genuine crystals. Not just any crystals, but crystals that are specifically grown for use in the display panel. When you look at a standard liquid crystal display (LCD) TV, you are probably aware that the screen is made of two parts: the front glass panel and a thin layer of liquid between two sheets of glass. You might not know that this liquid must be pumped through the panel at a very high rate and temperature to work correctly. This requires a significant amount of energy. Indeed, the energy costs associated with operating an LCD TV are one of the few drawbacks of this technology. On the other hand, Crystal UHD panels are driven by genuine crystals instead of liquid. This enables them to use significantly less energy and produce a clearer picture.
Similarities between QLED and Crystal UHD TVs
There are some crucial similarities between QLED and crystal UHD televisions. The QD-LED and the crystal UHD technology offer better contrast, brightness, and color reproduction than standard LCD televisions. Both technologies are also designed to consume less power than LCDs and produce less heat while they do it. This means they don't require unique cooling systems to keep from overheating. Finally, both QLED and crystal UHD televisions are designed to be capable of displaying HDR content. This includes a high dynamic range (HDR10) and hybrid log gamma (HLG).
The Differences Between Crystal UHD and QLED
How Are QLED and Crystal UHD TVs Different in video resolution?
Resolution is defined as the number of individual dots of color, referred to as pixels, contained on display. Resolution is represented by identifying the number of pixels on the horizontal axis (rows) and the number on the vertical axis (columns). The main difference between QLED and Crystal UHD is their resolution. A TV's resolution determines the number of pixels, which determines the picture's sharpness. The standard resolution for most TVs is 1080p (Full HD). Crystal UHD TVs have a resolution of 3840×2160 (4K), and QLED TVs have a resolution of 2960×1440 (QHD). This means that crystal UHD TVs have a higher resolution than QLED ones. In other words, crystal UHD TVs have a more detailed picture than QLED TVs. This difference becomes more noticeable as you sit closer to the TV.
How Are QLED and Crystal UHD TVs Different in terms of audio?
Another difference between QLED and crystal UHD TVs is the type of audio technology they use. When we talk about audio in TVs, we're talking about sound. The most important thing about TV sound is that it needs to be synchronized with the picture. This means the sound needs to reach your ears simultaneously as the image comes to your eyes. Crystal UHD TVs use the standard audio technology: stereo speakers. QLED TVs, on the other hand, use acoustic fluid speakers, which are speakers that vibrate a fluid to create sound. The significant difference between Crystal UHD and QLED is in audio output is sound quality. Crystal UHD TVs have relatively basic speakers that don't create high-quality sound. QLED TVs have speakers that make a more realistic sound and don't sound as “tinny.” So if you're a fan of crisp, high-quality sound, you should choose a crystal UHD TV over a QLED TV.
How Are QLED and Crystal UHD TVs Different in terms of hardware?
The hardware of a TV is the stuff inside it. It determines how powerful the TV is, how long it will last, and how much it costs to maintain. You should know two main things concerning QLED and crystal UHD TVs: processing power and panel type. Crystal UHD TVs use the standard “Quad Core” processors, while QLED TVs use “Quad Core + Quantum dot” processors. Essentially, the “+ Quantum dot” in the QLED processors means that they handle HDR better. What does this mean in practice? The more powerful a processor is, the quicker the TV can process information. So, with a more powerful processor, QLED TVs can handle 4K content better than crystal UHD TVs. Also, a more powerful processor means that the TV will last longer, requiring less power to run, and can handle more tasks more efficiently.
How Are QLED and Crystal UHD TVs Different in price?
The last difference between QLED and crystal UHD TVs is their price. In general, QLED TVs are more expensive than crystal UHD TVs. The reasons for this are subjective, but you should be aware of them. Crystal UHD TVs use older technology (IPS), while QLED TVs use newer technology (IPS). So, crystal UHD TVs are more affordable because they use older, cheaper technology. QLED TVs are more expensive because they use a newer, more expensive technology. Essentially, QLED TVs have better picture quality than crystal UHD TVs but are also more costly. Therefore, if picture quality is your main concern, you should choose a crystal UHD TV. But if you want the best possible picture quality, select a QLED TV.
Which TV Technology is Best: Crystal UHD or QLED?
In general, we would recommend going with the Crystal UHD technology. There are a few reasons for this, but the most important is that it has a higher resolution than QLED. This means it can display more detail than a QLED TV. Crystal UHD televisions also tend to have better color reproduction than QLED. This implies that the colors on the screen will look more accurate than they would be in real life.
Recommended TVs
We usually recommend to go at least for 65″ for both technologies. Here are our two top recommendations for both crystal UHD and QLED.
Crystal UHD TV
The Samsung AU8000 is our top recommendation for Crystal UHR.
3 used from $647.95
Amazon.com
- HANDPICKED BY AMAZON: They did the research so you don't have to..Image Aspect ratio:16:9.Connectivity technology : Bluetooth 4.2, IPv6 Support : Yes..Power Supply (V) : AC110-120V 50/60Hz. Standby Power Consumption : 0.5
- DYNAMIC CRYSTAL COLOR: Witness millions of shades of color through powerful Dynamic Crystal technology. Supports Ethernet : Yes
- CRYSTAL PROCESSOR 4K: See every detail with stunning clarity; The powerful processor, specifically tuned for Crystal Displays, converts what you're watching to 4K
QLED TV
The Samsungs Q60A is our top recommendation for QLED.
2 used from $877.95
Amazon.com
- A BILLION BRILLIANT COLORS: Enjoy vivid, lifelike color, regardless of brightness from 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot
- DYNAMIC CONTRAST: See bold detail delivered by dedicated warm and cool Dual LED backlights that adjust in real time
- EXPANDED COLOR RANGE: Go beyond HDTV with Quantum HDR that delivers a vivid spectrum of color and contrast to your Smart TV
- AIR SLIM DESIGN: Elevate your space with a sleek TV aesthetic
Here's a great video that compares the Q60A with the AU8000 by Tech Steve:
Conclusion
When creating an ultra-high-definition television, quantum dots and crystals are not the first things that come to mind. But, they are the materials that make QLED and crystal UHD televisions. QLED televisions use quantum dots to improve the brightness and color of the screen. In contrast, crystal UHD TVs use genuine crystals to reduce energy consumption, produce a clearer picture, and increase the television's lifespan. They also display HDR content, including HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG). These technologies can create a more vivid picture than standard LCD televisions and are becoming more common. If you're looking for a new 4K TV, you don't want to miss out on these advanced display technologies. You must understand everything before making your purchase decision.
You want to buy a TV that will last you for years to come, after all. Which TV technology is best for you will depend on your specific needs. If you want the best display possible, you may opt for a Crystal UHD TV. Nevertheless, if you are searching for a more affordable option or are okay with a slightly lower resolution, then a QLED TV is a great option.
