OLED vs. AMOLED: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Published on December 21, 2023
OLED is a display technology with organic compounds emitting light when electrified; AMOLED includes additional layers for touch and active matrix for pixel control.
Key Differences
OLED, short for Organic Light Emitting Diode, utilizes organic compounds to produce light when an electric current passes through. These compounds are situated between two conductors and emit light, making OLED screens capable of deep black levels and high contrast ratios. AMOLED, standing for Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode, is an advancement of OLED. It incorporates an active matrix of OLED pixels that are controlled more precisely, leading to faster response times and lower power consumption.
In an OLED display, each pixel emits its light, allowing for thinner screens as they do not require a backlight. This technology is known for its excellent color accuracy and wider viewing angles. On the other hand, AMOLED displays integrate a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) layer that acts as a series of switches to control the current flowing to each pixel. This added layer in AMOLED screens improves the screen's ability to refresh and handle motion.
Power efficiency is a notable aspect of OLED displays. Since pixels can be turned off individually, it saves power, especially in displaying darker images. AMOLED displays enhance this efficiency further. They are more energy-efficient than traditional OLEDs due to the active matrix system, which allows for more precise control over each pixel, resulting in better battery life for devices.
Durability and lifespan are considerations in these technologies. OLED screens can suffer from burn-in over time, where static images leave a permanent mark. AMOLED displays, while also prone to burn-in, typically have a longer lifespan due to their advanced pixel control mechanisms. This makes AMOLED more suitable for devices with prolonged usage, like smartphones.
The application scope of OLED technology spans across various devices, including TVs, computer monitors, and smartphones. AMOLED displays, however, are more commonly found in high-end smartphones and tablets due to their superior color reproduction, responsiveness, and power efficiency.
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Comparison Chart
Full Form
Organic Light Emitting Diode
Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode
Pixel Control
Individual pixel lighting
Active matrix for precise pixel control
Power Efficiency
High, with individual pixel off capability
Higher, due to active matrix technology
Response Time
Fast
Faster due to active matrix
Common Usage
TVs, monitors, some smartphones
Primarily high-end smartphones and tablets
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OLED and AMOLED Definitions
OLED
OLED displays are known for their energy efficiency and color accuracy.
The photographer preferred an OLED screen for its true-to-life colors.
AMOLED
AMOLED is an advanced OLED with an active matrix for pixel control.
The AMOLED screen on her phone was incredibly responsive.
OLED
OLED technology offers superior contrast ratios and viewing angles.
The OLED monitor provided an immersive gaming experience.
AMOLED
AMOLED displays integrate a TFT layer for improved refresh rates.
The high refresh rate of the AMOLED tablet made scrolling smooth.
OLED
OLED is a display technology using organic compounds to emit light.
The OLED TV displayed vibrant colors and deep blacks.
AMOLED
AMOLED offers enhanced power efficiency and color vibrancy.
His AMOLED watch display was both power-efficient and visually striking.
OLED
OLED screens are self-illuminating, requiring no backlight.
The OLED smartphone screen was remarkably thin and lightweight.
AMOLED
AMOLED technology is prevalent in high-end mobile devices.
The new smartphone featured an AMOLED screen for better viewing.
OLED
OLED panels can suffer from burn-in with static images over time.
The airport's OLED display showed signs of burn-in from static flight information.
AMOLED
AMOLED screens are susceptible to burn-in but have longer lifespans.
Despite heavy usage, the AMOLED display showed no signs of burn-in.
OLED
A light-emitting diode that uses an organic compound to emit light.
FAQs
How do OLED displays work?
OLED displays work by passing electricity through organic compounds that emit light.
What is OLED?
OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode, a display technology using organic compounds.
What makes AMOLED different from OLED?
AMOLED includes an active matrix that allows for precise control of each pixel.
Can OLED screens suffer from burn-in?
Yes, OLED screens can suffer from burn-in with prolonged exposure to static images.
What is AMOLED?
AMOLED means Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode, an advanced OLED with an active matrix.
Is AMOLED more power-efficient than OLED?
Yes, AMOLED is generally more power-efficient due to its active matrix technology.
Do AMOLED displays have better color accuracy?
AMOLED displays often have better color accuracy and contrast than standard OLEDs.
How does OLED benefit from not having a backlight?
Without a backlight, OLED screens can be thinner and display true blacks.
Are AMOLED screens more expensive?
AMOLED screens are often more expensive due to their advanced technology.
Are AMOLED displays good for gaming?
Yes, AMOLED displays, with their fast response times, are excellent for gaming.
Are OLED screens better for the eyes?
OLED screens can be better for the eyes due to their natural lighting and reduced blue light.
What devices commonly use OLED technology?
OLED technology is used in TVs, computer monitors, and some smartphones.
Can AMOLED screens be used in flexible displays?
Yes, AMOLED screens are often used in flexible and foldable devices.
What advantages does the active matrix in AMOLED provide?
The active matrix in AMOLED provides faster response times and better power management.
How long do OLED screens last?
OLED screens typically last around 100,000 hours before brightness diminishes.
Why do OLED screens show deeper blacks?
OLED screens show deeper blacks because each pixel can be completely turned off.
Are AMOLED screens visible in bright sunlight?
AMOLED screens are generally visible in bright sunlight, especially with anti-reflective coatings.
Does OLED technology have environmental benefits?
OLED is more energy-efficient and can be more environmentally friendly than traditional LCDs.
Does OLED offer wide viewing angles?
Yes, OLED offers wide viewing angles with consistent color and brightness.
Is the lifespan of AMOLED longer than OLED?
AMOLED can have a longer lifespan due to better pixel control.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
