Understanding TV technologies: QLED, ULED, HDR, Dolby Vision, Mini LED...
The world of modern TVs is full of technical terms: QLED, ULED, HDR10, Dolby Vision, Crystal UHD, Mini LED, Quantum Dot, and more. If you're in the market for a new TV, understanding these acronyms is essential to making an informed choice. Here's a simple, clear guide to deciphering all these technologies, with examples from brands like Hisense , Samsung , LG , and TCL .
1. Resolution: Full HD, 4K UHD, 8K
- Full HD (1080p) : 1920x1080 pixels. Sufficient for small screen sizes (<40")
- UHD / 4K : 3840x2160 pixels. Current standard, ideal for 43" and larger
- 8K : 7680x4320 pixels. Reserved for very large high-end TVs
👉 Resolution Differences - Les Numériques
2. QLED (Quantum Dot LED)
QLED is a Samsung technology that uses a Quantum Dot filter to enhance color and brightness. It is based on conventional LED backlighting.
- Excellent brightness (ideal in bright rooms)
- Very bright colors
- Shallower blacks than OLED
3. ULED (Hisense)
ULED is a proprietary technology from Hisense , combining several innovations: precise backlighting, image processing, contrast and color enhancement.
- Good value for money
- Often supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 4K
- Competitive against mid-range QLEDs
👉 Learn more about ULED - Hisense
4. Crystal UHD (Samsung)
Crystal UHD is Samsung's entry-level/mid-range 4K lineup. It doesn't use Quantum Dot but offers decent color and contrast thanks to good image processing.
- Affordable price
- Good for everyday use (movies, sports, streaming)
- Less color accuracy than a QLED
5. Mini LED
Mini LED is a highly advanced type of LED backlighting with thousands of tiny diodes. It allows for better contrast control, deeper blacks, and powerful brightness.
- Contrast close to OLED
- Ideal for gaming, HDR movies
- More expensive than classic LED
6. HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
HDR (High Dynamic Range) improves contrast and color richness.
- HDR10 : basic standard
- HDR10+ : dynamic version (Samsung, Hisense)
- Dolby Vision : dynamic version + Dolby license (LG, TCL, Hisense high-end)
👉 Dolby Vision - Official Site
7. Dolby Atmos (audio)
Some TVs also support Dolby Atmos , an immersive audio technology for 3D sound.
- Featured on select Hisense ULED, LG OLED and high-end Samsung TVs
8. Quick comparison of technologies
| Technology | Brands | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| QLED | Samsung, TCL | Intense colors, good brightness |
| ULED | Hisense | Excellent image at a competitive price |
| Crystal UHD | Samsung | Affordable 4K, efficient image processing |
| Mini LED | LG, TCL, Samsung | Very high contrast, precise backlighting |
| HDR10 / HDR10+ | All brands | Better contrast and color dynamics |
| Dolby Vision | Hisense, LG, TCL | Premium HDR, cinema quality |
Conclusion
If you're looking for a quality TV that's ready for streaming, movies, and gaming, consider QLED, ULED, or Mini LED models with HDR10+ or Dolby Vision . Brands like Hisense (ULED), Samsung (QLED, Crystal UHD), LG (Mini LED, Dolby Vision), and TCL offer great options for your budget.
