If you recall the days leading up to lockdown in 2019, you might remember the buzz surrounding the LG E8 OLED TV. As someone who spent countless hours glued to its screen, I can attest that it was the perfect companion during isolation. Back then, I wasn’t deeply familiar with OLED technology beyond knowing it replaced traditional backlights with self-lit pixels, offering infinite contrast. However, after immersing myself in games like *Final Fantasy XV* and *The Last of Us Part II*, the sheer vibrancy and depth became undeniable. That experience solidified my love for OLED, prompting me to upgrade to the LG C2 65-inch model a few years later.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to review numerous OLED-powered devices, realizing that not all screens are created equally. While the concept remains consistent, variations in technology mean some OLED panels deliver far superior performance. To answer the question on everyone’s mind—“How many OLED types exist?”—the list is extensive. However, for practical purposes, there are three main categories you should focus on: WOLED, QD-OLED, and AMOLED.
WOLED, QD-OLED, and AMOLED: How They Work
LG pioneered WOLED (White OLED), which differs slightly from conventional OLED by employing a white OLED layer paired with an RGBW color filter. This approach addresses issues related to uneven degradation of red, green, and blue emitters, reducing the risk of burn-in. However, this method introduces challenges such as imbalanced brightness and reduced color volume. Higher-end models attempt to mitigate these issues with technologies like Micro Lens Array.
Samsung introduced QD-OLED in 2022, replacing the white layer with a blue one enhanced by quantum dot color converters. Unlike the RGBW filter, quantum dots absorb light and re-emit it as red or green, preserving brightness and delivering richer colors.
AMOLED, often seen in mobile devices, employs a thin-film transistor (TFT) layer for faster pixel activation. While this improves response times, it sacrifices the infinite contrast synonymous with OLED.
WOLED, QD-OLED, and AMOLED: Which Is Best for Gaming?
Choosing the ideal OLED technology depends on your priorities. For most gamers, QD-OLED stands out due to its balanced performance. Its blue OLED layer ensures vibrant colors and higher brightness across the spectrum, making it ideal for immersive experiences.
However, WOLED shines in environments with significant glare. My LG OLED TV maintains deep blacks even under direct sunlight, whereas my QD-OLED monitor reflects light, producing a purplish hue. While QD-OLED excels in color accuracy and brightness, WOLED offers superior visibility in reflective settings.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your budget and setup. High-end WOLED panels command premium prices, but they deliver unmatched image quality.
The Future of OLED: PHOLED
While WOLED and QD-OLED dominate today’s market, LG recently unveiled PHOLED (Phosphorescent OLED) technology. PHOLED uses phosphorescent materials, promising 100% luminous efficiency compared to 25% in fluorescent alternatives. This breakthrough could lead to brighter, more energy-efficient displays. Although PHOLED won’t appear in TVs immediately, expect it to debut in smartphones and tablets sooner rather than later.
