IPS display: what is it?

IPS display
IPS display
IPS Display

Now most smartphones are equipped with an IPS screen. What are the advantages of such a matrix?

For a long time, computer monitors and cell phones were equipped with a TFT display. It seemed that the capacity of such a matrix is ​​sufficient to view high-quality images. But gradually it became clear that there are other technologies that can significantly increase viewing angles, as well as improve color reproduction. One of these technologies is IPS, which will be discussed in this article.

IPS screen structure

At one point, the invention of IPS displays allowed the creators of smartphones and tablets to make a big leap in the quality of the displayed image. For the first time, mobile devices have brought this parameter closer to plasma TVs! Now smartphones can boast of almost maximum viewing angles, and color rendering has begun to be pleasing to the eye.

Subpixel location options
Subpixel location options

The matrix made in IPS technology consists of thin film transistors arranged in parallel to each other. Or liquid crystals, because they are called much more often. Another difference compared to the TFT display is the fact that the crystals do not rotate in the absence of voltage (when you need to get a black display). It is these two properties that lead to the fact that the colors are almost not distorted, regardless of what angle of view the viewer chooses. It is also clearly seen that the IPS screen produces a deeper black color, especially its expensive variant, embedded in flagship smartphones or expensive TVs.

Disadvantages of the IPS matrix

The parallel arrangement of pixels plays a negative role. Unfortunately, the IPS screen has a  long response time  . If developers have not used expensive tricks, this parameter will be about 5-8 ms. In the TFT matrix, this parameter usually does not exceed 2-3 ms. Of course, in ordinary life a person is unlikely to notice such a difference. I feel a decent response time only in some games. Speech in this case applies to games on PS4 and Xbox One, on a smartphone such problems are not felt at all.

Another disadvantage of the technology is the   high energy consumption  . Whether you like it or not, smartphones with an IPS display consume quickly. This is due to the fact that rotating the system of crystals arranged in parallel (it is necessary to show one or another color) is much more difficult – this requires more tension. That is why phones with IPS screens are usually equipped with a capacious battery or energy-saving processor.

But the price is certainly not possible to increase. Of course, the TFT matrix is ​​even cheaper because they are still built into mobile phones. But the difference is not so great, so even ultra-budget Android smartphones are increasingly receiving an IPS display. But you must understand that not all screens created by this technology are the same. The cheapest ones still have some color distortion when viewed from certain viewing angles. But even such matrices give a much better image than TFT products.

Which screen is better: IPS or AMOLED?

Of course, now it is asking for comparison with much more expensive screens made using AMOLED technology. Such matrices are based on organic light-emitting diodes. This means that their pixels are not only parallel to each other, thanks to which maximum viewing angles are achieved, but also shine independently! Therefore, the display based on organic light-emitting diodes provides deeper black colors, therefore the image realism is significantly increased.

So AMOLED vs IPS. Who is winning? Of course, more expensive matrix. There is a reason why OLED screens are built into the most advanced TVs. The difference between the two types of displays is very easy to notice, especially when comparing matrices built into relatively inexpensive smartphones. Nevertheless, we must not forget that the production of compact AMOLED displays in normal quantities is organized only at Samsung. Of course, Koreans from South Korea sell a certain amount of their products, but AMOLED screens are rarely found on other smartphones. Therefore, buyers do not have to choose – if the amount for the purchase of the device is not particularly large, then you will need to look for the device with an IPS screen.

Summarizing

IPS technology will not be forgotten for a very long time. Now made on its screens have the best value for money. Under no circumstances buy a smartphone equipped with a TFT display – this technology has already survived. Think of the AMOLED screen is only necessary if there is a sufficiently large free amount.