If you’re in the market for the best TVs, it’s essential to understand the OLED 4k vs QLED 8k debate. In this article, we’ll look over what sets them apart and help you decide which is right for you.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The OLED TV is the best display technology on the market and has the best image quality.
- The QLED TV is also a dominant technology and is more affordable.
- OLED displays have after response times because every single pixel operates individually.
Differences Between 4k OLED and 8k QLED TVs
It’s the battle between the quantum dot and the individual pixel. The vast majority recognize the OLED TV as the just-about-undisputed champ in picture quality. But the QLED TV isn’t without its merits, and it’s worth understanding how each rival technology woos consumers with their respective viewing experiences. And for shoppers looking for information on different display types, it’s also worth looking into the differences between nano cell TVs vs OLED.
Insider Tip
To prevent OLED TV screen burn, turn brightness levels down, and don’t keep the TV on pause for too long.
Picture Quality
As stated, the OLED TV has the most dynamic range of color and response times on the market. OLED stands for “organic light-emitting diode,” meaning that every pixel is individually lit as it is needed to produce an image. No backlight, just each single-pixel dancing to its own tune. This technology has perfect blacks, a sharper image, and faster frame rates than any other TV out there.
On the other hand, QLED technology is the next generational step in your typical LCD backlit screen. QLED stands for “quantum-dot light-emitting diode.” These quantum dots are like tiny particles on a thin film inserted in the standard LCD layering structure. This film reflects light to enhance the color display.
So which form of technology offers a better viewing experience? Just about everyone sides with OLED, especially when creating deep blacks. However, some say that QLED can be better for bright images. The OLED TV, with its unique style of pixel lighting, has a hard time getting as bright as a backlit screen.
Prices
While having the highest quality, the OLED TV also has the highest price. Looking at the cheapest models, the most affordable OLED TV is close to 3x as expensive as the lowest price Samsung QLED TV. And if you want to get a wider view of the TV market, it’s a good idea to also know the conversation surrounding OLED TV vs LED TV.
Pixel Response Times
Again, OLED TV technology wears the crown regarding how fast pixels can change colors. For a QLED TV, typical response times clock in at around 2 to 8 milliseconds, and for OLED, it can be as low as 0.1 milliseconds.
Warning
Watch out for what’s known as screen burn with OLED TVs, where the screen shows a remanence of an image even after it’s been onscreen. Screen burn happens when high-contrast images are shown for too long.
F.A.Q.S
Is Samsung the only brand making QLED?
Samsung is not the only manufacturer using QLED TV technology. LG, TCL, and HighSense also offer models with quantum dot tech. However, Samsung Neo QLED technology is unique and can’t be found under any other manufacturer.
Can you get an OLED TV that is also 8k?
You can, but this model is the most expensive OLED TV on the market. It will cost you close to $30,000.
When is the best time to buy a smart TV?
If you’re looking to buy the newest tech the market has to offer, springtime is usually when new tech hits the shelves. However, if you’re looking for the best price, the holiday season is a good bet to find offers.
STAT: 8k TVs have twice the resolution as 4k, meaning that screens have twice the amount of pixels crammed in the same space. (source)
