Liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) can be classified as either full-array or edge-lit depending on their backlighting. All LCDs have backlighting. The pixels within LCDs aren’t self-illuminating like those within plasma displays. As a result, LCDs require backlighting.
There are different backlighting technologies used for LCDs, two of the most common being full array and edge lit. While you choose an LCD with either of these backlighting technologies, full array is typically the best choice. Full-array LCDs offer several noteworthy benefits that make them a popular choice.
Better Contrast
Full-array LCDs offer better contrast than edge-lit LCDs. They are characterized by the use of a grid-like arrangement of backlighting bulbs. Some full-array LCDs have light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, whereas others have cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) bulbs. Regardless, the bulbs are arranged in a grid behind the pixels. This arrangement allows full-array LCDs to create darker black images and brighter white images, thus improving the contrast.
Improved Viewing Angle
In addition to better contrast, full-array LCDs offer an improved viewing angle. Viewing angle, of course, the viewing angle degree at which you can see the images on a display device. Regardless of the type of display device, you probably see the images when standing or sitting directly in front of it. As you move towards the side, though, you may or may not be able to see its images.
When compared to edge-lit LCDs, full-array LCDs offer a wider viewing angle. You can view the images on full-array LCDs when sitting or standing farther to the side. Edge-lit LCDs have a much narrower viewing angle. Even if you’re just a few feet to the side, you may not be able to see the images on an edge-lit LCD.
Local Dimming
Full-array LCDs support local dimming. What is local dimming exactly? It’s a backlighting feature that allows a display device to selectively dim or turn off the lighting for specific areas of pixels. Local dimming is essentially why full-array LCDs offer better contrast than their edge-lit counterparts. They can turn off the lighting for individual sections of pixels so that they look darker than the surrounding pixels.
Edge-lit LCDs, on the other hand, don’t offer local dimming. Edge-lit LCDs are characterized by the use of backlighting bulbs around the perimeter of a display device. The backlighting bulbs aren’t arranged in a grid-like formation. Rather, they are arranged along the edges. As a result, edge-lit LCDs don’t offer local dimming. You’ll need to choose a full-array LCD to take advantage of local dimming.