Answer:
A Quantum Dot display uses a layer of nanoparticles that increases its color gamut and brightness.
An LED-backlit quantum dot display features a Quantum Dot Enhanced Film (QDEF) layer consisting of nanoparticles placed between the panel and the backlight. The result is improved color gamut and luminance of the display.
These particles can be applied to any LED panel technology, including IPS, TN, and VA, and they can increase the display’s color gamut to cover 95% of the DCI-P3 color space (equivalent to ~130% sRGB relative size), which is essential for a good HDR (High Dynamic Range) viewing experience.
Samsung also applies this technology to OLED displays, which are branded QD-OLED and offer improved image quality.
Samsung is the main producer of LED quantum dot enhanced displays (including both TVs and desktop monitors) that are branded as ‘QLED.’
You may also have seen the term ‘Neo QLED‘ on Samsung’s TVs. These displays combine the QDEF layer with a mini LED backlight for an even brighter image and better local dimming control with more zones.
While Samsung primarily applies quantum dot technology to their VA panels, LG uses the Nano IPS technology to improve the LED backlights of their IPS-panel displays.
Even though Nano IPS displays can have a wider color gamut (~98% DCI-P3), Samsung’s QLED TVs are more popular as VA panels offer a significantly higher contrast ratio. Nano IPS technology is more popular with desktop monitors.
Of course, other panel manufacturers, such as Innolux and AU Optronics also make their own LCD panels – all of which can be combined with custom mini LED backlights to achieve even higher brightness levels and color gamuts covering full DCI-P3 and Adobe RGB color spaces.
Samsung’s QD-OLED panels, however, offer a wider color gamut and a higher color luminance brightness than LG’s W-OLED panels. LG’s latest W-OLED panels, however, have a higher white luminance.
For the best HDR viewing experience, a display needs more than just a high-quality panel. So, be sure to check out our best HDR monitors and our best TVs buyer’s guides for the best options and more information.
