QLED vs QD-OLED - what's the difference?

QLED vs QD-OLED - An image of a QLED TV and a QD-OLED TV side by side

QLED vs QD-OLED - An image of a QLED TV and a QD-OLED TV side by side

If you find yourself in the market for a new TV, you are likely to encounter the latest technologies, QLED and QD-OLED. In case you're unsure about the differences between them, this QLED vs QD-OLED guide can provide the clarity you need.

QLED and QD-OLED are two different display technologies used by the best TV brands. Before investing, it is important to know the strengths and weaknesses of each technology so you can choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.

We'll be conducting a QLED vs QD-OLED comparison to determine which Quantum Dots technology performs more effectively. But before that, we suggest reading our QLED vs OLED comparison for a deeper understanding.

QLED vs QD-OLED - what's the difference?

QD-OLED (Quantum Dot Organic Light Emitting Diode) is an advancement to traditional OLED technology. It incorporates a layer of Quantum Dots in the display to improve colour accuracy and brightness compared to standard OLED TVs.

On the other hand, QLED (Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode) is an enhancement to traditional LED-LCD technology. It incorporates a layer of Quantum Dots in the display to improve colour accuracy and brightness compared to standard LED-LCD TVs.

QLED
QD-OLED
Panel technology
LED
OLED
Picture Quality
Good
Better (Superior colour accuracy, deep blacks)
Brightness
Better (Higher brightness levels)
Good
Viewing Angles
May have limitations
Wide viewing angles
Contrast
Good
Exceptional
Burn-in Risk
No
Potential risk
Lifespan
Long
Relatively shorter
Affordability
More budget-friendly
More expensive

In short, the difference between QLED and QD-OLED lies in their base technology: QD-OLED enhances traditional OLED, while QLED enhances traditional LED-LCD, both incorporating Quantum Dots to improve colour accuracy and brightness in their respective displays.

QLED vs QD-OLED - which is better?

There is no definitive answer as to which is better between QLED and QD-OLED, as both technologies have their strengths and weaknesses.

In terms of picture quality, contrast, pixel response time, and viewing angles, QD-OLED surpasses QLED. However, when considering factors like brightness, colour gamut, burn-in risk, lifespan, and affordability, QLED emerges as the better choice.

If you prioritise having the best-in-class picture quality, with superior contrast, and viewing angles, then QD-OLED TVs would be the preferred choice. Samsung S95C and Sony A95L are two viable choices you can consider.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a longer lifespan and are concerned about burn-in risk, then QLED TVs would be a better fit. The Samsung QN95C makes for an excellent choice among QLED TVs.

Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.

And that concludes our QLED vs QD-OLED comparison. You have enough information to decide what to do next. Still, if you're looking to buy a smart TV for gaming and watching movies, we highly recommend exploring the best gaming TVs of 2023.