The Difference Between QNED, OLED and QLED

Want the best picture on your TV or monitor? OLED, QLED, QNED, and MicroLED all promise sharp colors and deep blacks, but they each perform in different ways. Here's how they compare and how to choose the right one for you.

Comparing OLED, QLED, QNED and MicroLED

OLED, QLED, QNED, and MicroLED are the best display technologies available. They all offer high dynamic range, wide color gamuts, and high brightness, and can display true HDR content . While they're all capable devices, the differences in technology will affect their performance depending on the environment, which is something you should consider when buying a new TV.

Here is a table of typical specifications for QLED, QLED, QNED and MicroLED displays:

OLED and MicroLED are both self-emissive, meaning each pixel produces its own light. This allows them to deliver perfect blacks and incredible contrast, but MicroLEDs go one step further with even higher brightness and no risk of burn-in due to the use of inorganic materials. MicroLEDs are also more durable, but they're still incredibly expensive, even compared to the high cost of OLEDs.

In contrast, QLED and QNED are advanced versions of LCD technology. QLED uses a layer of quantum dots and an LED backlight to increase brightness and color, making it a great choice for bright rooms and general use. QNED builds on this by adding a Mini LED backlight. Both QLED and QNED can be very bright and are widely available at a variety of price points, but because they rely on backlighting, they can't match the perfect blacks or contrast of OLED and MicroLED.

Although the two are similar, one technology is much more practical than the other.

Side by side, MicroLED excels in brightness, sharpness, and durability, but it's still not practical for most people. OLED still leads the way for home theaters and anyone who wants the best picture in a dark room. QLED and QNED are strong all-around technologies, especially in well-lit spaces or for families who want a reliable, bright, colorful TV that's inexpensive.

Which monitor is right for you?

If you're shopping for a new TV or monitor in 2025, OLED and QLED are still the best options for most people. OLED is the top choice for movie buffs and anyone who wants deep blacks and rich colors, especially in a dark or dim room. On the other hand, you might want to switch to QLED if you're into gaming, where only one or two people will be in front of the screen. QLED displays handle motion better than OLEDs, as most QLEDs offer variable refresh rates (VRR) and low input lag.

Additionally, QLED TVs are generally cheaper and more widely available in most markets, unlike QNED displays. QLED and the latest QNED models shine in bright rooms, sports, and gaming, delivering great color and brightness at a more affordable price point. QNED's new color system and Mini LED backlighting deliver better color and contrast, making it a strong alternative to QLED if you want a premium LCD experience.

MicroLED, while impressive in theory, isn't practical for most buyers right now. It's incredibly expensive, and models only come in large sizes. For now, MicroLED feels more like a glimpse of the future than a real option for your living room. If you want the best balance of quality, price, and availability, OLED, QLED, and QNED are still your best options.

No matter which display technology you choose, you'll have a front-row seat to the best picture quality we've ever seen on TVs and monitors. OLED, QLED, and QNED all deliver stunning images, each with their own strengths for different rooms and viewing habits, while MicroLED hints at an even brighter future as it becomes more accessible. As these displays get better, brighter, and more affordable, you can be confident that your next upgrade will bring your movies, games, and everyday viewing to life like never before.

Micah Soto

Update 11 June 2025