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LED display purchasing guide

Choosing an LED display is a significant investment that requires careful planning. In this guide, we will go through the key factors to consider when selecting an LED display for your company or organisation.

Choosing an LED display is a significant investment that requires careful planning.
In this guide, we will go through the most important factors to consider
when choosing an LED display for your business or organisation.

1. Purpose and location

Before you start searching for an LED display, clearly define its intended use.
This directly affects the type of display that best suits your needs.

Ask yourself:

  • Where is the screen located? (indoors or outdoors?)
  • What is the primary purpose of the screen? (advertising, information, entertainment?)
  • How far are the viewers from the screen?
  • What are the lighting conditions around the screen?
  • Is the screen fixed or movable?

2. Indoor or outdoor display?

One of the most important choices is whether you need an indoor or outdoor display. These differ
significantly in terms of technical characteristics.

Indoor displays

  • Smaller pixel pitch (P1.2 – P4)
  • Higher resolution when viewed up close
  • It doesn't need to withstand the weather
  • Lower brightness is sufficient
  • Suitable for: shops, events, offices

Outdoor displays

  • Larger pixel pitch (P4 – P20+)
  • High brightness (5000+ nits)
  • Durable weather conditions
  • IP65 protection or better
  • Suitable for: advertising displays, stadiums, outdoor events

3. Pixel pitch and resolution

Pixel pitch determines the minimum viewing distance at which the screen can be viewed
without individual pixels becoming visible. It is measured in millimeters as the distance between the centers of two pixels.

Rule: The closer the viewers are, the smaller the pixel pitch required.
The general rule is that the optimal viewing distance is approximately 1-3 metres per millimetre of pixel pitch.
  • P1.2 – P2: Screens viewed nearby (e.g. shops)
  • P2.5 – P4: Viewed from a medium distance (e.g. events)
  • Pages 5-10 Views from a distance (e.g. stadiums)
  • P10 Plus Highly visible from a distance (e.g. outdoor advertising screens)

4. Screen size and aspect ratio

Screen size is usually defined in square metres or pixel count. It is also important
to take the aspect ratio into account so that the content displays correctly.

  • Measure the available space accurately
  • Also consider the space required for installation and maintenance
  • Choose an aspect ratio that suits your content (16:9 is the most common)
  • Consider the screen visibility from different angles

5. Brightness and contrast

The screen brightness is measured in nits (cd/m²). Sufficient brightness ensures that the is content
clearly visible in all lighting conditions.

  • Internal displays 500-1500 nits is usually sufficient
  • Monitors At least 5000 nits, often 8000+ nits
  • A high contrast ratio improves image quality
  • Be aware of direct sunlight on outdoor displays

6. Durability and maintenance

An LED display is a long-term investment, so durability and ease of maintenance are
important factors.

  • Check the IP rating (protection against dust and water)
  • For outdoor displays, at least IP65
  • Check the manufacturer's warranty and support availability
  • Find out the maintenance costs and complexity
  • Check modularity – makes repairs easier

7. Software and compatibility

The screen's software determines how easy content management and updates are.
Ensure the system supports the features you require.

  • Remote control capability
  • Scheduled screen programs
  • Support for different file formats (images, videos)
  • Compatibility with existing systems
  • Easy-to-use interface

8. Budget and costs

There are several costs associated with acquiring an LED display. Consider the total life cycle costs,
not just the purchase price.

Please note the following costs:

  • The purchase price of the screen itself
  • Installation and configuration
  • Electricity consumption (long-term cost)
  • Maintenance and repairs
  • Content management system
  • Potential licences and subscriptions

9. Manufacturer and support

Choose a reliable manufacturer with a good reputation and strong support services. This will ensure,
so that you receive help if necessary.

  • Research the manufacturer's reputation and experience
  • Check the warranty terms
  • Ensure support is available in Finland
  • Ask for references from other customers
  • Check that the spare parts are available

Summary

Choosing the right LED display requires careful planning and consideration of several factors.
Keep in mind that the cheapest option is not necessarily the best,
in the long term – invest in quality and reliability.

Once you have selected the right LED screen, the next step is content planning.
Explore in relation to our content production
to get tips for effective content creation.