Why ARE LG OLED Panels Less Bright than LED and Mini LED: The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra Exception

OLED TVs are inherently not as bright as most LED/LCD TVs, including QLED and miniLED, due to the heat generated from higher brightness and the impact on the life of the organic OLED pixels. However, in environments where the room can be made dark, such as a home theater or media room, OLED TVs shine.

The Main Issue

The primary concern with OLED TVs is that the brighter the display, the higher the chance of permanent screen burn-in. OLED pixels can suffer from this issue, but it is a limitation of the technology. While this can be avoided with careful use, the longevity of the display is a key consideration for premium TVs. For smartphones, the average ownership period is 2-5 years, so by the fifth year, some screen burn-in may occur, but users are likely to upgrade their devices by then.

Why LG OLED TVs Have Lower Brightness

1. High Cost and Consumer Incentives:

Manufacturing OLED TVs with high brightness capabilities is more expensive. The cost is not just in the display itself but also in the electronics and power management required to maintain high brightness levels over prolonged periods. The smaller display area of a smartphone makes it more economical to produce with high brightness compared to a large TV screen.

2. Risk of Screen Burn-In:

There is a risk of severe screen burn-in with OLED displays if the brightness is too high. OLED manufacturers, such as LG, are aware of this and take steps to mitigate the risk. This includes balancing brightness with the longevity of the OLED pixels.

3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Viewing:

OLED TVs are designed for indoor use, where there is less direct sunlight. This means the screen does not need to be as bright as it would be if used outdoors. In contrast, smartphones are intended for outdoor use, where the sun's brightness can make the screen difficult to read. Therefore, a brighter screen helps in keeping the display readable, but it is not necessary for OLED TVs as they are typically not used in such intense lighting conditions.

The Unique Case of Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra has a brightness level of 1342 nits, significantly higher than most LG OLED TVs, which typically range between 500-600 nits. This difference is due to the different design goals of smartphones and TVs.

Mobility and portability play a significant role in how smartphones are used. Users often require high brightness to see the screen clearly when outdoors, especially in direct sunlight. This is why OLED smartphones can have very high brightness levels, but it comes at the cost of potential screen burn-in over time.

In conclusion, while LG OLED TVs are intentionally designed to be less bright than LED and mini LED displays, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra stands out as an exception. This highlights the different priorities and design considerations between the two types of devices. For users in search of high brightness and a long-lasting display, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra might be the choice, while for those focused on ensuring a longer product lifespan and superior image quality indoors, LG OLED TVs are the better option.

Keywords: OLED display, brightness, screen burn in, LG OLED, Samsung S20 Ultra