Importance of the Right Viewing Angle
Explanation of the term viewing angle and it’s use in commercial displays.
Bob van Holland
9/27/20231 min read
Definition and Measurement
Viewing angle, in the context of display technology, refers to the maximum angle at which a display can be observed while maintaining acceptable visual quality. It is measured by considering the horizontal and vertical directions relative to the centre of the display. This measurement provides a understanding of the range within which the display's content remains visible without looking acceptable.
The maximum viewing angle has about a 90° range for both the horizontal and vertical directions. Beyond this range, the contrast ratio, which represents the difference in brightness between the brightest and darkest parts of an image, might not be acceptable anymore. The screen will be hard to read.
Importance and Applications
A wider viewing angle prevents color distortion and degradation, offering enhanced visual uniformity regardless of the observer's position.
In contexts such as retail where audiences are mobile and viewing angles change frequently, maintaining a consistent and high-quality visual experience is important. A display with a large viewing angle ensures that content remains visually appealing and accessible, even when viewers are not directly facing the screen.