Is OLED better than IPS for designers?

When it comes to choosing between OLED and IPS displays for design work, both have their unique advantages and drawbacks. Understanding the differences between these two display technologies can help you make a more informed decision based on your needs as a designer.

OLED vs. IPS for Designers: Key Differences

1. Color Accuracy and Vibrancy

• OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) displays offer incredible color vibrancy, contrast, and black levels. Each pixel on an OLED screen is its own light source, meaning it can produce true blacks (because the pixels can turn off completely) and achieve excellent color contrast. This can be a huge advantage when working with photography, video editing, or any design work where precise color representation is key.
• IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels are known for their color accuracy and wide viewing angles. While IPS screens might not achieve the same contrast levels or perfect blacks as OLED, they provide excellent consistency and are generally color-calibrated for design work. IPS panels are a common choice for designers because they offer accurate color reproduction across the screen and from various angles.

2. Black Levels and Contrast

• OLED has a distinct advantage when it comes to black levels and contrast ratio. Since OLED pixels can turn off completely to create true blacks, the contrast ratio on an OLED screen is far superior to that of IPS. This feature can make dark shadows and subtle details pop, making it beneficial for tasks that require highly accurate shading or depth, such as video editing, motion graphics, or 3D design.
• IPS, on the other hand, tends to suffer from "grayish blacks" because it relies on a backlight. Even with advanced technology, IPS cannot achieve the same pure blacks as OLED.

3. Viewing Angles

• Both OLED and IPS panels offer wide viewing angles compared to older LCD technologies. However, OLED panels usually have even better viewing angles due to their self-emissive pixels. This means that the color and brightness won't degrade as much when viewed from different angles.
• IPS panels are also very good when it comes to wide viewing angles, but color shift and brightness degradation can be noticeable in certain models, especially those with lower-quality panels.

4. Brightness Levels

• IPS displays tend to be brighter overall, which can be an advantage when working in well-lit rooms or environments where you need to see the screen clearly without reflections or glare.
• OLED displays, while capable of high brightness, often can’t compete with IPS in terms of peak brightness. However, OLED compensates for this with its superior contrast, as dark areas of the screen remain true to black even when brightness levels are moderate.

5. Burn-In Risk

• One major drawback of OLED for design work is the potential for burn-in. Burn-in happens when static images (like a logo or toolbar) are left on the screen for extended periods, causing uneven pixel wear. This is a significant concern for designers who work with static interfaces, grids, or elements that stay on screen for long periods.
• IPS displays, on the other hand, don’t suffer from burn-in issues, making them a more durable choice for designers who use their displays for long hours with static content.

6. Lifespan

• OLED displays may degrade over time, with brightness and color accuracy potentially deteriorating after several years of use. This is mainly due to the organic nature of OLED pixels.
• IPS displays, while not perfect, tend to have a longer lifespan and maintain color accuracy for a longer period, making them a safer investment for professionals who need reliability over many years of use.

7. Price

• OLED displays, especially in larger sizes, are generally more expensive compared to IPS displays. While the price difference has narrowed over time, OLED still commands a premium, especially for high-end monitors.
• IPS monitors are often more affordable and come in a wider range of prices, making them accessible for both amateur and professional designers.

Which is Better for Designers: OLED or IPS?

The choice between OLED and IPS largely depends on your specific needs and type of work:

When OLED is Better for Designers:

• High-End Color and Contrast: If you require the best color reproduction, deepest blacks, and outstanding contrast (e.g., photo editing, video production, motion graphics), an OLED screen is likely the better choice. The superior color depth and vibrancy can be a game-changer for visual tasks.
• Creative Projects with Rich Visuals: If you're working with projects that demand stunning visuals, such as graphic design for media, game development, or 3D rendering, OLED’s contrast and vibrancy can help you see the finer details more clearly.

When IPS is Better for Designers:

• Long-Term Reliability and Durability: For designers who need a reliable, long-lasting display without the worry of burn-in, IPS is the better option. If you're working with static design elements (like UI/UX design or logo creation) where content might stay static on the screen for long periods, an IPS display is a safer choice.
• Accurate Color for Professional Work: If color accuracy is your top priority (e.g., print design, product design), high-quality IPS monitors are specifically designed to meet the needs of professionals who require precise color matching. Many IPS monitors are factory-calibrated for color-critical work.
• Budget Considerations: If you're on a budget but still need good color accuracy and viewing angles, IPS displays offer a more affordable solution.

Recommended Monitors for Designers: OLED vs. IPS

Best OLED Monitors for Designers:

1. LG UltraFine OLED Pro (32EP950)
   • 31.5-inch OLED display with excellent color accuracy and deep contrast.
   • Perfect for video editing and photography.
   • Price: ~$3,500.
2. ASUS ProArt PA32DC OLED
   • 32-inch OLED monitor designed for color professionals with 100% Adobe RGB and DCI-P3.
   • Ideal for color-critical tasks.
   • Price: ~$2,000.

Best IPS Monitors for Designers:

1. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q

   • 27-inch 4K IPS monitor with excellent color accuracy (99% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3).
   • Great for photo editing, graphic design, and video production.
   • Price: ~$650.

2. BenQ PD3220U

   • 32-inch 4K IPS monitor with HDR support, 100% sRGB, and 95% DCI-P3.
   • Perfect for designers and creative professionals who need color accuracy.
   • Price: ~$800.

Conclusion: OLED vs. IPS for Designers

• If you're working in color-sensitive fields like photography, video editing, or motion graphics, OLED can offer superior contrast and vibrant colors, but the risk of burn-in and limited lifespan may make it less practical for long-term use in design.
• IPS remains the more practical choice for many designers, especially those working with static content or those who need reliable, long-lasting color accuracy without the risk of burn-in.

Ultimately, the choice between OLED and IPS depends on your specific needs, budget, and how you plan to use the monitor. Both technologies have their place in a designer's toolkit!