IPS vs TN: How to choose the right display technology for industrial screens?

In industrial applications, the choice of display screen is crucial, as it directly impacts operational efficiency, visual experience, and overall equipment performance. IPS (In-Plane Switching) and TN (Twisted Nematic) are two common liquid crystal display technologies, each with its own advantages and limitations. This article will compare IPS and TN technologies from the perspective of industrial screens to help you choose the most suitable display solution.

I. Core Technological Differences between IPS and TN

(I) Display Principle

IPS: IPS technology achieves better viewing angles and color performance through horizontally arranged liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecules rotate within the same plane, resulting in a stable light transmission angle, thus providing good color reproduction and stable contrast.

TN: TN technology controls light by twisting the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules. Under the influence of an electric field, the liquid crystal molecules change the polarization angle of light. When the viewing angle deviates from the front view, the light transmittance of the liquid crystal changes significantly, leading to color deviation and decreased contrast.

(II) Viewing Angle

IPS: IPS offers an extremely wide viewing angle, up to 178°. Even when viewed at extreme angles, the displayed content will not exhibit severe color distortion or brightness reduction.

TN: Narrower viewing angle, typically around 140°. Color distortion is more likely to occur when viewed from the side, and contrast and brightness decrease significantly.

(III) Response Time

IPS: Longer response time, typically between 5ms and 16ms. However, modern Fast IPS technology has reduced the response time to 1ms or even lower.

TN: Extremely short response time, typically between 1ms and 5ms, suitable for applications requiring rapid refresh rates.

(IV) Color Performance

IPS: Provides richer and more accurate color performance with high color accuracy, suitable for professional design and high-definition video display.

TN: Weaker color performance, typically only 16.2M colors, with generally lower color reproduction, suitable for applications with less demanding color requirements.

(V) Brightness

IPS: Generally brighter than TN screens, making screen content more clearly visible in bright environments.

TN: Lower brightness, resulting in poor display performance in strong light environments.

(VI) Price

IPS: Higher production costs, therefore a relatively higher price.

TN: Lower production costs, making it more price-competitive.

II. Application Comparison in Industrial Scenarios

(I) Industrial User Interfaces

IPS: In industrial user interfaces, the wide viewing angle and high color accuracy of IPS screens ensure that operators can clearly see the screen content from different angles, reducing the risk of misoperation.

TN: The narrow viewing angle of TN screens may make it difficult for operators to see the screen content from non-frontal angles, increasing the risk of visual fatigue and operational errors.

(II) Monitoring and Display

IPS: In industrial monitoring systems, IPS screens provide clearer and more stable images, suitable for long-term monitoring.

TN: TN screens have poor readability under strong light and are not suitable for use in complex lighting environments.

(III) Automated Equipment

IPS: For automated equipment requiring high-precision display, the color stability and wide viewing angle of IPS screens are ideal.

TN: The fast response time of TN screens makes them suitable for some background testing equipment with extremely high speed requirements.

III. FQA Section

(I) Q: Are IPS screens suitable for industrial applications?

A: IPS screens are very suitable for industrial applications, especially scenarios requiring high viewing angles, color accuracy, and brightness. It can reduce the risk of misoperation and improve operational efficiency.

(II) Q: What are the advantages of TN screens in industrial applications?

A: The advantages of TN screens are fast response time and lower cost. If industrial applications do not have high requirements for color and viewing angle, but have high requirements for response speed, TN screens are an economical choice.

(III) Q: How much more expensive are IPS screens than TN screens?

A: IPS screens have higher production costs, so they are usually more expensive than TN screens. The specific price difference depends on the screen size and functions, but generally speaking, IPS screens may be 30% to 50% more expensive than TN screens.

IV. LEEHON Technology’s Solutions

LEEHON Technology focuses on providing high-performance display solutions for the industrial sector. Our IPS screen products undergo rigorous quality control and color calibration to ensure optimal display performance in various industrial environments. Whether you need a high-precision monitoring screen or an operating interface that needs clear visibility under strong light, LEEHON Technology can provide you with customized solutions.

Conclusion
Choosing between IPS and TN screens depends on your specific needs and application scenarios. If your industrial applications require high viewing angles, color accuracy, and brightness, an IPS screen is ideal; if you have extremely high requirements for response speed and a limited budget, a TN screen is also a good option. If you have further questions about IPS or TN screens, or need customized display solutions, please contact LEEHON Technology. We will provide you with professional technical support and services.