Crystal UHD vs QLED: Which is Better?
“Crystal UHD” and “QLED” are marketing names for groups of TVs in the Samsung lineup. But which one is best for your needs?
What is QLED?
Samsung introduced QLED TVs in 2017. The letter “Q” stands for the use of a layer with quantum dots in the structure of the LCD screen.
In addition, Samsung has developed QLED, which is short for Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode. It uses a layer of quantum dots with LED backlighting to create a broader range of colors and brighter images.
Unlike Crystal UHD, QLED TVs are part of Samsung’s premium lineup, offering superior picture quality and additional features.
They enhance the colors on the screen and how the TV displays them, giving you a wider range of colors to enjoy. It is placed after the backlight from the LEDs and before the layer with liquid crystals.
Color televisions require only red, blue, and green backlighting, with crystal strips applied to the film in these colors. Blue can pass from the LED backlight, but manufacturers do not use quantum dots to create the blue backlight color.
Quantum dots enhance the RGB backlight spectrum, minimizing dirty halftones and producing more transparent, richer colors on the screen.
In 2021, researchers and engineers made significant advancements in “QLED” screen technology. The backlight began using mini LEDs instead of LEDs, and the novelty was the trade name “Neo QLED.” QLED TVs belong to the middle class, while Neo QLED has a high-end status. They can be 4K or 8K in resolution.
MiniLED backlighting uses smaller LEDs. This technology improves backlight control and creates more control zones.
What is Crystal UHD?
Crystal UHD is a term coined by Samsung to describe its entry-level 4K Ultra HD TVs.
These models feature LED backlighting and a Crystal Processor 4K, improving picture quality by enhancing color and clarity.
Crystal UHD offers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. It provides solid performance despite lacking the advanced technologies of higher-end models.
Introduced in 2020, the name means junior models with basic technology without technological innovations.
Crystal UHD stands for Ultra High Definition, Ultra HD, or UHD. Crystal UHD TVs use the same technology as other LCD TVs to create a 4K (3840×2160 pixels) resolution.
Samsung manufactures Crystal HD TVs with 4K compatibility using LCD (LED) technology. Crystal UHD TVs use LED backlight technology, distinguishing them from the newer Neo QLED and QLED models. These models use thousands of mini-LEDs to provide greater clarity.
Before 2020, the junior televisions in the lineup were considered premium TVs. These are regular 4K UHD models.
The main difference between these and QLED models is the absence of a layer with quantum dots. The backlighting works on conventional LEDs.
Samsung Crystal UHD TV is the entry-level 4K TV on the market. Check out this excellent 60Hz refresh rate that comes with a bunch of cool Smart TV features! You get game mode, SmartThings integration, a voice assistant, and Wi-Fi Direct, all without breaking the bank.
The price of QLED TV is noticeably higher because the picture display technology is of better quality than Crystal UHD.
Samsung’s 2022 television series no longer employs the marketing term Crystal UHD. However, the processors of the younger models are called Crystal Processor 4K.
A Comparison of The Two Technologies
Right off the bat, let’s say that QLED and Crystal UHD TVs are liquid crystal LCD (LED) screens. The backlighting of the display is all about this. For example, OLED technology is entirely different in structure and means a different display technology.
Since QLED refers to advanced TVs in the line of models with better features, they are better than Crystal UHD TVs.
QLED refers to quantum dot light-emitting diode technology. Many manufacturers are releasing TVs with QLED displays.
What do different companies call quantum dot displays?
- Samsung — QLED
- LG — NanoCell
- Sony — Triluminos
- SHARP — Q-COLOUR
- Hisense — ULED
Quantum dots are physical crystals that glow when light hits them. Depending on their size, crystals glow in different colors. A TV screen uses red, green, and blue colors, requiring crystals that are several nanometers in size.
Differences Between Crystal UHD and QLED
Crystal UHD (Ultra High Definition) is the technology that processes video signals to crystal clarity (as the ads say). It is a regular 4K resolution TV with standard LED backlighting that uses the Crystal Processor 4K.
In Samsung’s lineup of TVs, Crystal UHD models occupy the entry-level spot.
What About QLED Models?
QLED models are equipped with superior Quantum processors, delivering enhanced performance compared to Crystal 4K.
This processor can process 8K resolution video, which is impossible for Crystal UHD models.
Also, QLED has HDMI 2.1 ports, while Crystal UHD can have HDMI 2.0b at most, which gives less ability to connect to other equipment.
| Crystal UHD | QLED | |
| Resolution | 4K (3840×2160) | From 1080p to 8K max |
| Processor | Crystal 4K | Quantum |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 60 – 120 Hz |
| HDMI 2.1 | No | Yes |
Given that the QLED display is already more expensive, this model includes only the best features, regardless of the cost.
The Samsung TV has excellent wireless features and is user-friendly because of the Tizen operating system.
The superb sound system has a built-in tuner for all your channels. The video quality is top-notch, and it even smooths out motion well for a better viewing experience.
Crystal UHD TVs deliver decent 4K picture quality, but aren’t the best choice for discerning viewers. Their affordable price is a big plus. Therefore, if you need a standard 4K TV with basic features, Crystal UHD models are a solid choice.
| Feature | Crystal UHD | QLED |
| Picture Quality | Suitable for general viewing, with decent colors | It is perfect for general viewing, with decent colors |
| HDR Performance | Limited | Outstanding |
| Viewing Angles | Standard LED limitations | Ideal for general viewing, with decent colors |
| Brightness | Adequate for dimly lit rooms | It is better, but not as wide as OLED TVs |
| Price | More affordable | Higher price, especially for larger sizes |
| Durability | Good longevity | It is better but not as wide as OLED TVs |
| Gaming Features | Basic support | Advanced features like VRR, low input lag |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Crystal UHD if:
- You are on a budget.
- You want a reliable 4K TV for casual viewing.
- You don’t need advanced HDR or high brightness levels.
- Choose QLED if:
- You prioritize picture quality, especially for HDR content.
- You watch TV in bright rooms.
- You’re a gamer or cinephile who values features like deeper blacks and better motion handling.
Conclusion
QLED TVs deliver premium features and exceptional picture quality in today’s competitive television market. Meanwhile, Crystal UHD TVs offer a more affordable alternative for mainstream consumers.
If budget allows, QLED is worth the investment for a richer viewing experience.
F.A.Q.
Can QLEDs play 4K 120Hz?
Yes. However, not all QLED TVs work with 4K 120Hz, so you need to check the model specifications.
What’s a better 4K UHD model or Crystal UHD model?
Crystal UHD is what Samsung’s 4K TVs are. Only the video processor is Crystal Processor 4K. UHD and 4K mean the same thing — a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels.
Is QLED worth the extra money compared to Crystal UHD?
Yes. The video quality is noticeably better with quantum dot models.
Is Samsung Crystal UHD better than QLED?
No, Crystal UHD is not better than QLED. If you take the primary purpose of the TV, which is to show video movies, then the quantum dots in the structure of the screen will have the advantage.
Is Crystal UHD better than OLED?
OLED is the best technology for building a TV screen today. Therefore, even TVs with mini LED backlights cannot show a picture comparable to OLED screens.
Great breakdown of the differences between Crystal UHD and QLED! I’ve been considering upgrading my TV and this really helped clarify which technology might suit my needs better. I appreciate the insights on color performance and brightness – they are crucial for my setup. Thanks for the informative post!
Great comparison! I appreciated the detailed breakdown of the differences between Crystal UHD and QLED. It really helped me understand which might be a better fit for my viewing preferences. I’m leaning towards QLED for the enhanced colors and brightness, but I’ll definitely consider the budget aspect as well. Thanks for the insights!
Great comparison! I’ve been debating between a Crystal UHD and QLED TV for my home theater. Your insights on color accuracy and brightness really helped clarify the differences. I’m leaning towards QLED now, especially for those vibrant colors. Thanks for the detailed analysis!