You might find models with “full-array”, or local dimming, if you are looking for a new TV. This technology improves the quality of your television by increasing the contrast ratio.
How do LED TVs work?
To understand full-array local dimming, you need to be familiar with how TVs work.
(Image Source: Samsung)
The LCD panel (liquid crystal display) is the most important filter in a TV. This panel can be opened or closed to allow light through at the pixel level.
LCD TVs with low contrast ratio. This can make blacks appear darker and duller colours.
(Image Source: Samsung)
TV manufacturers have added “local dimming”, which improves contrast, onto their LED TVs.
What’s Local Dimming?
Local dimming allows you to dim the backlights of your TV using a method that makes blacks appear deeper.
(Image Source: TCL)
Local dimming can improve the contrast ratio of LED TVs but it won’t be as effective if you are watching movies in darkened rooms. Local dimming will enhance the visual appeal of high dynamic range (HDR), content.
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But not all LED TVs can be considered equal.
Edge-Lit vs. Full-Array Local Dimming
Edge-lit TVs feature a row of LED lights at both the top and bottom as well as the sides. Full-array TVs also have LED lights at each of the top, bottom and sides.
(Image Source: LG)
All LED lights should be installed at the edges of edge-lit TVs. You can turn on local dimming to create long streaks around brighter areas.
(Image Source: LG)
A smaller dimming area means a better result. This reduces blooming, and improves the overall contrast ratio.
Blooming can also be caused by local dimming. This happens when dark areas become darker.
Mini-LED TVs need local dimming
TV manufacturers designed mini LED TVs to make it easier for backlight management. Due to their greater local dimming, TVs have higher contrast ratios.
(Image Source: TCL)
These mini-LED TVs show the power of local dimming. Each dimming zone has about 10 LEDs.
Are OLED TVs capable of local dimming?
OLED (organic-light-emitting diode TVs) can individually control each pixel, unlike traditional LED TVs. OLED TVs are able to turn off all pixels in dark scenes. Each pixel is its own dimming zone.
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(Image Source: LG)
OLED TVs can burn in and are not very bright. This is why these models are so expensive.
Is local dimming worth it?
For those who aren’t looking to invest in OLED and microLED TVs, local dimming is a good option. Many LED TVs offer local dimming options that are similar to OLED TVs.
You can disable the local dimming function by changing the TV’s settings.
How many local dimming zones are you requiring?
Today’s TVs have hundreds, if not thousands of dimming options. Remember that the larger your TV, the more dimming options it will require.
The starfield test can be used to determine your TV’s dimming capabilities.
Local dimming can also cause motion problems. To test your local dimming, you can use the Test
You now know how to dim all of the TVs. Take our quiz to find the best smart TV setup for your home theatre.
