If you regularly organise events or exhibitions, it’s likely that you use some form of lighting technology to display images, marketing messages or information. Traditionally a light projector and screen was the go-to method, but in recent years the benefits of LED video walls have made them a very popular choice.

Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and your final choice will be dependent on variables such as your budget, the size and environmental conditions of the space, and the type of content you want to display. Here’s a look at the merits and potential drawbacks of each. 

Image quality capabilities of LED screens

LED walls emit their own light source, rather than projecting light off a screen, so they are capable of very bright intense light regardless of the levels of light in the room or environment. The brightness can be adjusted, or even adjust automatically, to any conditions so that the content can easily be seen even bright sunlight or dull cloudy weather.

LED screens also have the ability to display high resolution images with crystal clear clarity, as they are available with pixel pitches as low as 0.9mm. This is important for content that includes a lot of text, or is intended to be viewed from closer distances. 

The video walls can also provide wide viewing angles of up to 160 degrees, ensuring that content can be clear and visible whatever the position of the viewer. Furthermore, LED screens can display vibrant colours with deep contrasts that are consistent throughout the whole image. 

Image quality capabilities of traditional projectors

Traditional projectors have to reflect light rather than emit it from the source, so some of the intensity and brightness is lost by the distance. This may mean that they are less effective outdoors or in brightly lit interiors with a lot of ambient light. Typically, other lighting in the room needs to be dimmed in order to get the optimum level of brightness from a projector.

If the display is intended for a low light environment, then this should not present any problems for a traditional light projector. However, unless the room is completely pitch black, the projector will have suboptimal levels of contrast as it is not capable of projecting deep blacks; it is more likely to produce a range of weaker greys.

Projectors are not capable of providing wide viewing angles, so audiences who do not have a direct view of the screen will have a worse quality of vision. 

Durability and maintenance: LED video walls

The lifespan of an LED wall will depend to a certain extent on the manufacturer, type and model of screen, but overall a good quality screen or LED wall from a reputable supplier should withstand continuous operation for up to 100,000 hours or more. 

LED screen technology has evolved significantly in recent years. For example, it is now possible to include Glue on Board technology, sometimes also known as ResinProtect, which is a clear protective coating. This enhances the resistance to dust, dirt, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, and accidental damage.

LED screens that are specifically designed to resist weather and pollution are suitable for outdoor use and capable of withstanding extremes of temperatures, whether deep freezes or intense heatwaves. The screens may require the occasional clean or fine tuning, but in general they are considered to be very low maintenance.  

Durability and maintenance: projectors

Projectors are more likely to need regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly, because the filters and lens need to be kept clean and free of dust. The bulbs will need to be changed more frequently as they have a limited lifespan of between 2,000 to 6,000 hours. The bulbs can heighten the risk of overheating and malfunction of the device.

Projectors are not always compatible with outdoor environments as they are prone to damage from heat, moisture, dust, and humidity. Overall, traditional projectors are less durable and more high maintenance than LED screens. 

Cost effectiveness: LED video walls

The cost of an LED display will vary depending on the size, resolution, and make and model. However, they are typically priced higher than projector equipment. This extra upfront cost may be offset by lower maintenance costs, superior performance, versatility, and longevity.

Cost effectiveness: projectors

Projectors have a lower initial cost, although they can be more expensive to run and maintain.