We all use computers, an indispensable part of which are monitors. From the right choice The monitor depends on the preservation of one hundred percent vision and the level of comfort when working. Under no circumstances should you skimp on a monitor, because no amount of money can buy you vision.

When choosing a monitor for yourself, you should start by determining the type matrices, on the basis of which your future monitor will be assembled. It's worth remembering that different types matrices are better suited for one type of work or another. Next you need to decide diagonally screen. Here a lot depends on the quantity free space on the desktop, which you can place under the monitor. You shouldn’t buy too large a diagonal (it’s not a TV after all), but there’s also no need to waste time on trifles - you’ll simply have difficulty reading small text. This is especially true for users with poor vision.

As for monitor manufacturers, there are quite a few of them on the market, offering models of different quality and design. It all depends on personal preferences and availability in the assortment. In addition, you can always read reviews of specific monitor models on the Internet.

Let's start by choosing matrix types. There are a huge number of types of matrices on the basis of which monitors are created, but the main ones are TN, IPS And V.A.. All others are their various modifications. Also in lately are gaining popularity PLS matrices, but they are still unreasonably expensive.

TN matrix

The simplest and oldest type of matrix, at the same time the cheapest. Monitors on TN matrices have small viewing angles. This is expressed in the following: the picture is distorted at the slightest deviation from viewing at a right angle. But for such matrices minimum response time, i.e. The dynamic picture leaves no trails.

IPS matrices

Monitors assembled on IPS matrices have much more high-quality color rendering, compared to TN matrices. Also typical for such matrices maximum viewing angles. But with all these advantages, there are also a number of disadvantages. Namely: increased response time(presence of trails in dynamic scenes) and high cost production, respectively price.

VA matrices

MVA/PVA matrices are a kind of compromise between TN and IPS matrices. There are also more advanced types of matrices: Premium MVA And S-PVA. Monitors based on such matrices have very close to IPS color rendering , large viewing angles, short response time(slightly more than TN). As for contrast and brightness, they are maximum compared to all existing ones. at the moment matrix types (except PLS). But still, for professional work such monitors are not suitable, since with a minimal deviation of the direction of view from the perpendicular of the monitor, an experienced eye is already able to notice deviations in the halftones of colors. To most average users this will seem like a small thing.

PLS matrices

In principle, PLS is, in a sense, a development of IPS matrices, but a somewhat cheaper option. They have such advantages as high brightness And good color rendition , enough large angles review. Naturally, there were some drawbacks. The response time of PLS ​​matrices is slightly worse than TN, but better than VA.

Summarizing the types of matrices, let's say this: if you have a limited budget, or you are a gamer, choose monitors with TN matrices. For professional photographers and designers, as well as for watching movies, it makes sense to spend money on S-IPS. Well, for office work and drawing graphics should definitely look towards MVA/PVA.

Now let’s decide on the diagonal of our future monitor. In principle, for comfortable work quite enough 24 inches. It makes no sense to take less, because with permission Full HD (1920x1080) The text on the screen becomes too small.

Monitor resolution

It has long been traditional Full resolution HD – 1920x1080. But there are models with more high resolution. These may be required for gamers. Accordingly, your video card must support such high resolutions.

Parameters such as brightness, contrast, dynamic contrast do not make much sense at all, since each manufacturer measures them using its own technology.

Please note connectors located on the back of the monitor. Currently, the most relevant is the combination DVI+HDMI. VGA may only be useful for older machines.

3D technology support

A dubious, and also very expensive pleasure. Better buy 3D TV inches diagonal 50 - in this case, the costs will fully justify themselves.

Any speakers or USB ports built into the case are also completely useless. Pay attention to the stand. It should be quite reliable and be able to rotate/tilt. You may also need to use the monitor in portrait mode – not every monitor model has the ability to adjust the height.

I have listed the main points that are worth paying attention to. As for design, everything here is strictly individual. It's the same with manufacturers.

In order to understand which matrix is ​​best to buy a TV with, you need to study its varieties and characteristics, as well as the main disadvantages and advantages of each type. Today, LCD TV manufacturers use three main technologies:

In the production of LCD TVs, the TN matrix began to be used earlier than others. Due to its simple technology, it is most often used in inexpensive TV models, as well as in screens with a small diagonal. This option is suitable for buyers with a small budget.

The TN matrix consists of liquid crystals, some of which are parallel to the screen plane, others are perpendicular to each other or arranged in a spiral. Due to the fact that the crystals rotate unevenly, the image below different angles distorted. This is one of the main disadvantages of this type of matrix. TVs with TN also cannot boast of good color reproduction: the colors are not bright enough and may not correspond to reality. Another disadvantage of this type of matrix is ​​the possibility of “dead” pixels appearing in the form of dots on the screen that do not display the picture.

To increase the viewing angle to the TN matrix, some models use special coating– Film.

TN advantages:

• low cost;
• high response speed;
• minimal power consumption.

IPS: pros and cons

During development IPS technology Manufacturers have taken into account all the shortcomings of the TN matrix. This allowed us to obtain a higher quality product. All IPS crystals are in the same plane - parallel to the screen, and rotate simultaneously.

• large viewing angle;
• high level of image brightness and clarity;
• deep color supply;
• long service life;
• low level effects on the eyes.

Cons of IPS:

• high cost;
• in some models it is observed low speed response;
• black color is not deep enough;
• low contrast level.

There are several types of IPS matrices. The most common:

• E-IPS;
• AS-IPS;
• P-IPS;
• H-IPS;
• AH-IPS;
• S-IPS.

The most expensive are AH-IPS and P-IPS. They have the highest image quality. The cheapest option is E-IPS.

Another type of matrix developed according to the IPS principle is PLS. It has higher light transmittance and consumes less electricity. The downside of PLS ​​is the lowest contrast level among all existing matrices.

V.A.

VA matrix is ​​a compromise between TN and IPS. It is a popular type of matrix and is used in many modern models LCD TVs. In VA, the liquid crystals in the off state are perpendicular to the screen plane. This allows for rich blacks that cannot be achieved with TN and IPS. The crystals are able to move freely, so the colors are not distorted when changing the viewing angle. TVs that use VA technology are suitable for rooms with low lighting.

VA matrices are superior to TN in image quality, but they are not good enough compared to IPS. However, in the production of VA, new technologies are gradually being introduced to correct many of the shortcomings of this type of matrix. These technologies include MVA and PVA.

Which matrix is ​​better to choose?

The choice of a specific type of matrix for a TV depends on the buyer’s budget and his needs. If you need an inexpensive option with minimum requirements In terms of image quality, a TV with TN is suitable. Models of such TVs are no larger than 32 inches diagonally. This option will be successful for a summer house, kitchen, office. A TN TV can be used as a gaming monitor. Fans of special effects and dynamic scenes in films will also appreciate this type of matrix.

Well-known TV manufacturers mainly use IPS and VA technologies. IPS is ideal for a home theater where you will be collecting large number people. It allows you to display high-quality video of any format from any viewing angle. Also, such TVs can be used to demonstrate presentations where required high definition graphics and photos. TV models with VA matrix are slightly inferior in image quality, but are in a lower price category. This model is quite suitable for private viewing of a small family.

What types of matrix do famous brands use?

Toshiba, a well-known Japanese manufacturer, uses IPS technology in its TVs.

Sony, Sharp, Panasonic use their own developed improved version of VA in most of their models. Sharp produces a unique matrix in limited quantities - UV 2 A. It is considered the best among the developments of the VA type.

70% of LG and Samsung TVs have VA matrices. Other models use IPS. Samsung has also developed its own version of VA-S-PVA. They are used in high-end TVs. This type of matrix guarantees a wider viewing angle and deep black color.

Philips uses Sharp and LG developments in its production.

How can you independently determine the type of matrix on your TV?

There are several tips that will help you determine the type and quality of the matrix on your TV:

1. You can press lightly on the matrix. If the image is distorted, then the TV uses VA or TN technology.
2. Look at the image from different viewing angles. If, when viewed from the side, the picture changes its colors, then this also indicates a TN matrix.
3. When buying a TV, you should definitely check the different operating modes. Special demo versions are used in stores. In this mode it is difficult to detect flaws.
4. It is necessary to test for “broken” pixels. To do this, you can bring with you a USB drive with recorded files. The files are backgrounds of different colors: red, blue, green and black. The test is passed when there are no dots on the screen that differ in color from the main background.
5. To check the response, you can use videos with quick change actions. At high speed response, the image remains clear and does not double. You can record special test videos on a flash drive.
6. You should check the gradation level gray. The quality of dark scenes in films will depend on this indicator. The more shades of gray the matrix shows, the better the quality of the dark picture will subsequently be. This test takes place in the “Cinema” mode.
7. View contrast and brightness levels in different modes settings.
8. Make sure there are no green or pink spots that may appear on the white background. Such spots are normal for some types of matrices, but can cause slight discomfort when watching TV.
9. When buying a TV in an online store, look for videos with an overview of the selected model.

The popularity of each product depends on two factors. This is the quality of the product and its price. TN matrices, which dominated the market for many years, were attractive due to their low cost. However, with the development of IPS technology and its subsequent reduction in cost, the choice of buyers was predetermined. The laurels of the “people's favorite” went to the new contender.

But it's not that simple. The development of IPS has given rise to many variations of this matrix. The most famous of them is PLS. Which of the two options is better?? What are the differences between other types of IPS? The answers to these questions will guide the buyer to the right choice.

IPS technology

By 1996, the hegemony of TN matrices came to an end. Hitachi and NFC have successfully completed the joint development of innovative technology. IPS matrices were released and presented to the masses.

The main purpose for which this product was created was to replace the outdated TN predecessor. Such ailments as common at that time, such as poor color reproduction, low contrast and small viewing angles, are a thing of the past. New monitors naturally became market leaders.

"In-Plane Switching" literally translates as " intra-site switching". High quality The images of this matrix are achieved due to a fundamentally different arrangement of liquid crystals. If in TN they were arranged in a spiral, then in IPS they were parallel to each other.

Perfect picture

Offers a new solution immediately several advantages, taking this into account, their predecessors simply cannot stand up to the competition:

High-quality color rendition	Full depth RGB colors gives maximum realistic image without any deviation or distortion. Over one billion colors and their shades. Photographers and designers will appreciate this.
High brightness and contrast	Improved brightness and contrast significantly improve picture quality. TN remains the loser. The sparseness, grayness and dullness of the image cannot be completely corrected even by professionally setting up the monitor.
Increased viewing angles	The viewing angles of the IPS matrix are also strikingly wider than its predecessor - up to 178°. The color of the image is not distorted even with such a large deviation of the view from the center of the monitor. On various TN matrices this parameter ranges from 90° to 150°.
Safety at work	The arrival of IPS matrices was a real gift for user eyes. Ophthalmologists claim that this option is more convenient when long work behind the monitor than TN.

There was also a small but pleasant detail. Reaction to physical impact is excluded. If you point your finger at a TN monitor, clearly noticeable “waves” will appear at the point of contact, distorting the image. In-Plane Switching does not have this problem.

Not without flaws

However, even so innovative technology cannot be called an ideal. IPS matrices still have obvious disadvantages:

Modern matrices are also not without the above-mentioned disadvantages . However, it would be unfair to say that the technology has remained in place compared to previous variations.

Further development

With the opening in 1996, the desire for a perfect picture only gained momentum. The technology needed to be reduced in cost and improve its high response time. An equally important task was to improve its strengths.

The “inherent” disadvantages of “In-Plane Switching” have become less critical. Especially when compared with what happened in 1996.

However, the cost of this matrix and its response time are still far from ideal. This was the starting point for the development of an alternative that has gained wide popularity in the monitor market.

With the arrival of pls

At the end of 2010 Samsung company presented to the world her vision of progress for modern matrices- “Plane-to-Line Switching”. PLS was positioned as fundamentally new replacement imperfect IPS. Representatives of Samsung did not provide any descriptions of their own technology.

True, at one point the corporation indirectly recognized its matrix as a type of IPS. This happened during litigation with LG. The lawsuit filed by Samsung claimed that AH-IPS is a modification of their PLS technology. In fact, this was not true. On the other hand, nothing cancels the series technical advantages PLS in comparison with a competitor:

The image quality and RGB color gamut in PLS are in no way inferior modern IPS. However, data from various expert studies is contradictory. Some conclude that PLS is somewhat superior to its competitor in this regard. D others believe that there is no difference here and both matrices are equal.

The conclusion follows from this: if there is still a difference in image quality/color reproduction between PLS and IPS, then it is insignificant.

Connoisseurs of bright, realistic pictures and clear dynamic scenes are advised to look towards PLS. Yes, the response time of this matrix is ​​slightly higher than that of TN. However, the difference is not critical - the effect of “blurring” of objects on the display is eliminated in both options. But color rendition, brightness, contrast and viewing angles here definitely weigh in favor of PLS. A worthy option for a wide audience interested in games and cinema.

“In-Plane Switching” deserves the attention of those who care exclusively about color rendering (photographers, designers, etc.). The number of modifications of this technology is much wider than the most popular ones that were discussed earlier. However, professional work with graphics and color requires individual approach. For various tasks A monitor on a PLS matrix is ​​also quite suitable. At the same time, it will cost much less than any specific type of IPS.

The average user will also appreciate modern varieties this matrix. Under two conditions:

1. A monitor based on it has similar characteristics to an analogue based on a PLS matrix that is comparable in the price range.
2. This monitor with a matrix is ​​cheaper than the same analogue on PLS.

Do you wish high quality image With low time response? PLS matrix at your service. Do you need a monitor purely for professional graphics work? The same PLS and many varieties of IPS will satisfy your needs - the choice depends on compliance with the required technical parameters and the cost of the product. Have you found a monitor with a modern IPS matrix whose characteristics are close to a PLS analogue of comparable price, but at the same time cheaper? A worthy option to purchase.

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Liquid crystal displays (IPS, MVA, PVA technologies)

Sergey Yaroshenko

When creating LCD displays, three main technologies are used: TN + film, IPS and MVA. Since TN + film technology was discussed in detail in the previous article, we will focus on its technological competitors.

TN + film technology

Twisted Nematic + film (TN + film). The “film” part in the technology name means an additional layer used to increase the viewing angle (approximately up to 160°). This is the simplest and cheapest technology. It has been around for a long time and is used in most monitors sold in the last few years.

Advantages of TN + film technology:
- low cost;
- minimum pixel response time to control action.

Disadvantages of TN + film technology:
- average contrast;
- problems with accurate color rendering;
- relatively small viewing angles.

IPS technology

In 1995, Hitachi developed In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology to overcome the disadvantages inherent in panels made using TN + film technology. Small viewing angles, very specific colors and unacceptable (at that time) response time prompted Hitachi to develop new technology IPS, which gave good results: decent viewing angles and good color rendition.

In IPS matrices, the crystals do not form a spiral, but rotate together when an electric field is applied. Changing the orientation of the crystals helped achieve one of the main advantages of IPS matrices - viewing angles were increased to 170° horizontally and vertically. If no voltage is applied to the IPS matrix, the liquid crystal molecules do not rotate. The second polarizing filter is always turned perpendicular to the first, and no light passes through it. The black color display is perfect. If the transistor fails, the “broken” pixel for an IPS panel will not be white, as for a TN matrix, but black. When voltage is applied, liquid crystal molecules rotate perpendicular to their initial position parallel to the base and transmit light.

Details Igor Rybachuk Questions and answers

To answer the question which matrix is ​​better, VA or IPS, you need to clearly understand your scenarios for using the TV. The same type of matrix will look better in some conditions and noticeably worse in other conditions.

These matrices have different structure pixels, due to which they have strengths and weaknesses.

For example, a VA matrix has a significantly higher native contrast - 2000-6000:1. Which gives a more voluminous image, especially in dark scenes. And a deeper black color, which is important for the perception of films. The negative side of the VA matrix is ​​poor viewing angles horizontally and, especially vertically. Horizontally, the shades will be distorted; vertically, the detail in the shadows will be distorted. General trend to lighten shades.

The IPS matrix has wide viewing angles, the pixels are oriented in such a way that the light is scattered to the sides. But because of this, the contrast suffers (usually 700-1300:1) and the black level is only sufficient for viewing in a well-lit room. In a darkened room, the sensitivity of the eyes to the perception of details in the shadows increases and “black” becomes gray.

Thus, several sub-points can be distinguished optimal use such matrices in televisions.

Matrix VA or IPS - which is better for a TV?

If the TV is primarily for cinema. Viewing in the dark or with low light, or, conversely, in a very bright room. In this case, the movie will be watched directly in front of the screen - the best option there will be a TV with a VA matrix (if we are talking only about LCD technology)

If the use of TV is more universal, often with lighting, but not too bright, IPS will be more interesting due to wider viewing angles. Such a TV does not have to be optimally positioned in height in front of the viewer - it is less demanding on the place where it will be located.

VA or IPS matrix - which is better for a monitor?

If you use a TV as a monitor, you need to clearly define the emphasis - will the TV be used for working with graphics and video or is it just a large universal screen.

In the first case, you definitely need IPS. Moreover, it is “correct” when each pixel has three color subpixels.

IPS RGBW example:

IN in this case The brightness on white, all other things being equal, is higher on TV, but the color gamut is lower (one of the color subpixels is replaced by white) and, most importantly, because... pixels are organized not in columns, but in honeycombs; it is impossible to get straight lines one pixel wide. IPS RGBW is used in budget 4k LG TVs. However, it may also occur in other brands.

In the second case –VA will be more interesting, because higher contrast, black depth, and viewing angles are often not important.

VA or IPS matrix - which is better for games?

In terms of pixel response you need to look specific models. In TVs, as a rule, budget IPS have a lower response and shorter cable lengths.

But the lack of a good anti-reflective filter, weak contrast and spotty Direct backlight are not encouraging. Again, there are exceptions everywhere.

In terms of the image as a whole - if you play with lighting, before you used TN or IPS matrices - you can take IPS.

If you play with weak light in the dark or without it at all, ideally an OLED, or at least a VA matrix. Dark scenes will look better on these panels.

Which matrix is ​​better - TN or IPS?

TN matrix structure:

At the moment, such matrices are used very rarely in TV and in small diagonals. There is only one advantage of such a matrix - its low cost. In modern realities, it is better to avoid these matrices.

In this article, we did not discuss anti-glare filters, pixel response, backlight types, how it works in terms of flickering, etc. – all this can be found out in more detail on our