LG's Dual Mode OLED Displays

Jul 7, 2024

LG's Dual Mode OLED Displays

Introduction

  • LG introduces a new generation of OLED displays named Dual Mode.
  • Allows switching between 4K resolution and 1080p resolution.
  • Unlike conventional monitors, it offers native display without scaling issues in both modes.

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Dual Mode Concept

  • Dual Mode: Switch between native 4K 240 Hz and 1080p 480 Hz.
  • Benefits include outstanding picture clarity, HDR, and color performance.
  • Challenges: Overcoming display port link limitations.

Testing Different Modes

  • 4K at 240 Hz: High picture and motion clarity.
  • 1080p at 480 Hz: Better refresh rate but less clear image compared to 4K.
  • Performance similar in both modes, but resolution and clarity differ.

EDID and Mode Switching

  • EDID (Extended Display Identification Data): Metadata reporting display capabilities.
  • The monitor has two EDIDs, switchable through OSD or a button.
  • 4K mode: Max 240 Hz.
  • 1080p mode: Max 480 Hz, less resolution listed.

Performance Evaluation

  • Color Accuracy: SRGB mode is okay but a bit cool. Gamer mode is flashy but less accurate.
  • Processing Latency: Extra frame latency in higher refresh rates.
  • HDR: Low peak vs. High peak brightness modes, over 1,200 nits in a 1% window for high mode.
  • Input Latency: 4K mode has worse input latency compared to 1080p mode.

Responsiveness

  • Subjective Experience: Both modes are great but have small differences.
  • Fast switching improves motion clarity in OLED due to eye perception.
  • Higher refresh rates reduce latency and improve clarity.

Scaling Challenges

  • Integer Scaling: Converts higher resolution clearly without blurring.
  • 4K can be divided cleanly by 1080p, 720p, and 240p.
  • Certain scaling issues noted, e.g., slight pixel offsetting in 4K mode when using 1080p.
  • Scaling in non-integer resolutions often introduces blurring.

Conclusion

  • Intriguing, advanced product with a few drawbacks and workarounds.
  • Potential future optimizations from LG and other manufacturers.
  • High cost ($1,400), but impressive technology for early adopters.

Future Outlook

  • New timing controllers (TCONs) may enhance performance beyond 480 Hz.
  • OLED's potential for extreme refresh rates due to fast pixel response times.
  • Gearing towards future technology with ultimate motion clarity requiring closer to 1,000 Hz.

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