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?
QLED TVs were introduced in 2017. The letter “Q” stands for the use of a layer with quantum dots in the structure of the LCD screen.
QLED, short for Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode, is another technology developed by Samsung. It uses a layer of quantum dots in combination with LED backlighting to produce a wider color gamut and enhanced brightness.
Unlike Crystal UHD, QLED TVs are part of Samsung’s premium lineup, offering superior picture quality and additional features.
They improve the colors on the screen and the color reproduction of the TV itself, resulting in an expanded color gamut. The layer with the quantum dot film is placed after the backlight from the LEDs and before the layer with liquid crystals.
For color television, only red, blue, and green colors are needed in the backlight, and crystal strips are applied to the film using these colors. Blue can pass from the LED backlight, but quantum dots are not used to create the blue backlight color.
Quantum dots improve the RGB backlight spectrum, reducing dirty halftones on the screen and making the color much more transparent and richer.
In 2021, “QLED” screens improved. 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 high-end status. They can be 4K or 8K in resolution.
The use of smaller LEDs distinguishes miniLED backlighting. This improves the backlight control, and there are more control zones. This improves HDR video, contrast, and black level.
What is Crystal UHD?
Crystal UHD is a term coined by Samsung to describe its entry-level 4K Ultra HD TVs.
These models use LED (light-emitting diode) backlighting and a Crystal Processor 4K, which enhances picture quality by optimizing color and clarity.
While it may not feature the advanced technologies of higher-end models, Crystal UHD delivers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers seeking solid performance.
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.
The Crystal HD TV is 4K compatible and is made using LCD (LED) technology. Note that the Crystal UHD TVs use LED backlight technology, hence their LED designation, differentiating them from the more recent Neo QLED and QLED technologies. These models use thousands of mini-LEDs to provide greater clarity.
Before 2020, junior TVs in the lineup were called 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 on the market. It provides a 60Hz refresh rate picture and offers Smart TV features, game mode, Smart Things, a voice assistant, and Wi-Fi direct, all at a lower price.
The price of QLED TV is noticeably higher because the picture display technology is of better quality than Crystal UHD.
Samsung’s 2022 TV line does not use the marketing name 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 stands for quantum dot screen technology. Many manufacturers are releasing TVs with QLED displays.
What 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. As stated above, the TV screen needs red, green, and blue, so the crystal size should be between 1 and 3 nanometers.
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.
QLED models have Quantum processors that are better than 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 |
Since the QLED display is already more expensive, this model includes only the best features regardless of the cost. These include wireless communication technology, the Tizen operating system, an audio system, a tuner set, video processing quality, and motion smoothing.
However, Crystal UHD TVs have good 4K picture quality, though not the best. Their affordable price is a big plus. So, if you need a standard 4K TV with basic features, the Crystal UHD models are a good choice.
Feature | Crystal UHD | QLED |
Picture Quality | Suitable for general viewing, with decent colors | Excellent brightness, vibrant and accurate 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 ideal for general viewing, with decent colors |
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 are generally the better option for those who value premium features and superior picture quality, while Crystal UHD TVs are more economical for everyday use.
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.