In reality, LED TVs are members of the LCD TV family - insofar as technology is concerned. By this, we mean that both types of televisions employ liquid crystal displays. However, there is one crucial difference. This difference involves the method of backlighting employed by the two TV types that can dramatically alter the characteristics of their subsequent picture qualities. This is the main reason why it's important to check on this prior to purchasing your TV.

Traditional LCDs and LEDs

Traditionally, fluorescent lighting has been employed in the displays of LCD TVs. This was achieved either with technology involving the use of tubes - to a more advanced form of technology that utilized a flat array of lights.

With an LED TV, light emitting diodes (hence the initials, "LED") are used when lighting the LCD panel. However, there are different types of fluorescent lighting used in traditional LCDs - just as there are different types of LED backlighting. For example, there are models of LCD TVs that employ a panel of LED lights located behind the LCD panel. The LEDs can be tri-colored and controlled, in banks, for a visual effect known as "local dimming". This effect will allow the darker areas of a picture to be dimmed behind the image, which will result in a greater degree of contrast and deeper black image levels.

Different lighting methods can be employed

In other models, the LED lights can surround the panels - resulting in a much more slim TV design. But, this design will not allow for local dimming and thus, these models are similar in picture quality to traditional LCD TVs. In those traditional LCDs, the backlight is constantly on when there TV is powered on. In order to create dark or black areas, the screen will twist the light emitting crystals into a closed configuration. This will usually result in lower contrast and less detailed imagery in the dark areas of the picture. This is the main disadvantage in LCD technology that is being addressed by LED TVs with local dimming. Controlled backlighting allows LEDs to be dimmed in the image's dark areas - which will result in darker blacks with greater image detail in dark scenes.
ADVANTAGE: Local dimming LED TV technology demonstrates a clear advantage in contrast and deep black levels. This will promote a much sharper and more realistic image, thus enhancing your viewing experience.
For more information regarding the differences between LED and LCD TV technology (click here).