LED Video Walls for Residential – The Differences and Important Considerations

Everybody wants a BIG screen in their home. Maybe you’ve seen a giant screen at a concert, at the mall, or your favorite sports game and couldn’t help but think how insane it would be to have one in your own home… And as you can imagine, it’s been done before.

Whether it’s for watching the big game, a home theater, entertaining friends and family, or just to have a little… competitive edge over your neighbor’s big screen across the street, LED Video walls have already proven to offer numerous advantages over projection other forms of large-format display technology. They’re brighter, more vibrant in colors, low maintenance, and fully seamless. They can also come in outdoor-rated variants offering total weatherproofing with higher brightness giving an advantage for outdoor use.

These have all been well achieved in a commercial or entertainment environment, but what about in a residential setting?

What is an LED Video Wall?

If you’re looking to buy an LED screen for your home, it’s vitally important to understand the basics of what they are and how they work. LED walls are commonly assumed to just be a giant TV, which they can be, but there are also assumptions that they work in the same way, and that’s far from the case.

LED video walls are a form of large-format display technology. They consist of modular sections, commonly referred to as “panels” or “tiles”, that connect to create a uniform screen of virtually any size. They are fully seamless with no bezels between each section for a vibrant look, resembling the look of a giant TV aesthetically to an extent. They utilize an array of RGB LEDs to create images, text, and videos.

This operates similarly to OLED technology, but at a larger scale. The LED arrays tend to be a little larger and spaced a little further apart in order to achieve displaying media in a large format.

Therefore, their name is quite literal, a screen that’s practically the size of a wall that uses LEDs to display video.

How does an LED wall compare to other display technology?

In large audience applications, an LED screen is a clear winner, but in the home the dynamics are different. Consumer Video technology has made considerable advancements in the past two decades. Compare what we have today versus what we had in the early-2000’s… Remember rear projection TVs?

The reality is, TVs have been getting larger, smarter, and higher in resolution. Now even outdoor-rated TVs are available that can resist weather elements and provide a brighter image in the sun. Projection technology has also made considerable advancements such as short-throw projection that can cast a large image rear near the wall, eliminating complex wiring and making user installation easier, along with the revolution of laser technology delivering a brighter, more colorful image.

These advancements in home video technology are starting to become more affordable and accessible to the average consumer as it becomes more common. When these technologies didn’t exist or were cost-prohibitive, an LED wall was a clear choice. The same principle applies today, an LED screen will almost always provide its advantages and best ROI in areas where TVs and Projectors cannot. But when TVs and Projectors start fitting bill that was once only capable by an LED wall, the pricing and technology start to correlate. So one must weigh where an LED screen can excel to get the most out of their investment.

The Considerations & Requirements.

When it comes to a residential LED video wall application, the equipment specification can be quite different. 4K resolution is now nearly in every household in the country, which leads to a common misassumption that an LED wall will offer similar clarity right out of the box. To meet this expectation, LED video panels with higher pixel densities are often required, which can contribute to a higher cost for the equipment – Additionally, integration of a jumbotron in the home can also be a more involved process to install and integrate in a way that makes it more home- or user-friendly. It requires careful consideration, planning, and calculations as well as professional installation to make the investment a success. So what should be considered for the next big investment?

Size

Again, TVs are getting bigger… As a result, size is one of the key factors to determine if an LED screen should be considered. The minimum screen for consideration of an LED screen should be no less than 110” diagonal, and this is quite the bare minimum. As of the publishing of this article, TVs within the 100-inch size range have become more accessible where the cost can now be less than entry-level LED walls. This is only a 10-inch difference from the minimum applicable size for an LED screen. So the cost of an appropriate, high-resolution LED screen may be hard to justify if the savings are significant compared to a large TV with near-equivalent dimensions.

If you are seeking a screen size that is less than 110 inches, then a TV or projector should be considered. An LED wall that is too small can present challenges to achieving a desirable resolution and image detail at a justifiable cost. Remember that LED walls are quite literal to their name of being the size of a wall. So an LED video wall’s true advantages will be best experienced and worth the investment if the size is greater than existing TV technology available today and foreseen in the long term.

Pixel Pitch, Resolution, and Cost

We have seen how TVs and projectors alike have rapidly advanced from HD to 4K and now 8K. For LED video walls, this resolution standard is not as common. Since they are designed for large-format use, each LED diode is spaced further apart to display an image on a large scale, which can actually count as one pixel.

There are many variations as to how far apart LED pixels can be spaced out. This metric is referred to as the pixel pitch. What can result is not only what the actual resolution of the LED wall is, but also what kind of viewing distance is required to see a clear image without pixelation. While LED walls have become more affordable, the most attractive price points for LED displays are mainly limited to standard pixel pitches. Standard common pixel pitches are typically in the 3mm to 6mm range, which can require a minimum viewing distance of anywhere from 10-20’ away from the screen.

Then there are fine pixel pitches. These can come in between 0.7mm – 2.5mm. With pitches 0.7 – 1.2mm range being considered Direct-View LED walls where minimal viewing distance is required. The lower this number is, the higher the resolution, as these mm numbers depict the spacing in millimeters between each LED diode (or pixel).

Residential environments are generally smaller spaces and therefore will typically have a closer distance between the big screen and where someone is viewing it. Ultimately, this can require a fine pitch or even a direct-view LED wall to meet expectations for clarity and image detail. Which can ultimately result in a higher cost than one may expect compared to standard pixel pitches – The ideal pixel pitch for your home specifically will depend on a few variables such as screen size, room size, viewing distance, and whether it is required that the screen be true-4K or even native-8K resolution.

From a general perspective, the ideal pixel pitch range for residential use is around 1.2–1.9mm indoor, going as low as 0.7 for the pinnacle of full-scale clarity and 2.6mm for something more cost-effective in a larger space. For outdoor, ideal pixel pitches can range from 1.9mm – 3.9mm, as outdoor areas can tend to have larger spaces and further viewing distances. Specifications can vary for outdoor spaces depending on brightness requirements for outdoor daylight visibility.

Sound

LED screens don’t have speakers. Because they are modular in nature for scalability and can be used in large-audience situations, audio requirements where an LED screen may be used can vary significantly. Undoubtedly, a big screen is only proper if there is a BIG sound to go with it.

However, it’s not just a matter of not having speakers. The processing units for the LED screen where inputs will connect are not equipped with any audio outputs either. So a separate sound system, such as a receiver, must be installed that can extract audio from your input source and disburse it to speakers. In most cases, it’s going to be best to design a sound system that works for the area where the screen is installed. However, while an LED Video wall processing unit can support common HDMI inputs, they cannot support eARC or wireless speakers that receive signal via BlueTooth, so most common sound bars are not natively compatible.

Inputs & Advanced Image Processing

LED walls can support most input sources as most LED video processors that drive the LED screen offer HDMI inputs. An LED wall isn’t going to be smart, but one can easily connect a smart TV box like AppleTV to get access to all the common smart functions and streaming apps. Cable boxes can also be connected as well. However, most input sources and devices are going to follow the standard 16:9 widescreen ratio that is used in TVs today. If the LED screen is ultra-wide or a unique format outside of the 16:9 ratio, special processing or a dedicated computer can be required to support the unique resolution and maybe even custom media content depending on what needs to be displayed.

One of the competitive features found in TVs today besides the resolution is their image processing capabilities. Within TV technology alone we have seen advancements like OLED and QLED, along with High Dynamic Range (HDR) to provide exceptionally vivid color reproduction and even high-refresh rates up to 240Hz for gaming. LED video walls have made their own unique advancements in LED technology as well. Better optimizing the color performance and image quality displayed on the LED screen. Such as Ultra-Black LEDs, 4-in-1 MiniLED (IMD), and Chip On Board (COB), which can enhance color performance. In fact, some LED wall options can even offer HDR, 3D, and the ability to support 240Hz input frame rates. However, these options are not always standard, and can sometimes be misconfigured where the function is cannot be enabled or the effect is not well achieved due to the use of low-quality components. So one must do due diligence just as they would when purchasing a TV or projector.

Control Convenience Capabilities

With TVs and Projectors, we’ve become quite accustomed to being able to turn it on, switch between input devices, even and adjust any settings just through the click of a button on the included remote control. An LED video wall does not come with a remote control. They are considered advanced, professional-grade video equipment, which can operate in a much different manner working alongside professional-grade video units. An LED wall requires special software via a PC computer to configure and make any adjustments to its settings. Some processors can switch between inputs but can only be done directly on the unit itself. Additionally, there is also no power switching, to turn off the LED screen when it’s not in use, a common practice to prolong its lifespan. – Integrating these same convenience features found in a TV, if desired, can require special advanced home automation to control. This is not quite the DIY home automation a homeowner can easily set up themselves like Amazon Echo or HomeKit.

Professional Installation Requirements

The installation of an LED wall is not as easy as hanging a TV, trust us. It is critical to ensure LED panels are mounted level, with precise alignment and equal weight distribution. Otherwise, seams can occur and compromise the viewing experience. Additionally, LED walls can weigh a significant amount, anywhere from 300 – 2,000 lbs, and must be installed securely for the safety of the homeowner and their family. For a home, this can require structural reinforcement in order to support the weight of the screen.

Then there are power and data requirements. LED walls can actually consume a lot of power, often requiring multiple dedicated circuits in order to operate which will need to be installed by a licensed electrician. For data, the LED video panel themselves actually receive their signal through RJ45 connections and connect to a controller or video processor that is separate from the screen. This can require low-voltage data to run through the wall and with a video controller and input sources in a different location, sometimes even a separate room.

That being said, installation should only be performed by a qualified AV integration professional. Most LED walls will not be sold equipment only to a homeowner for liability reasons. If the installation is performed incorrectly the product’s warranty may be voided and if any damage occurs to your home, insurance issues may arise. Typically an LED video wall will stay with the home when it’s sold, so it must be installed correctly if it’s going to be a selling feature and pass inspection.

By working with a qualified installer, they can help navigate the requirements of installing an LED video wall. If the installer is a full-service AV integrator, they can also help integrate other aspects such as sound and automation to ensure the full big-screen experience is seamless. Additionally, LED video walls are designed to have a long life span, so they can require service and maintenance from time to time. A local qualified installer can be available to quickly assist with any servicing needed down the line.

What makes home LED screen installation successful?

There are certainly a lot of points to cover about using an LED wall in the home. But is it unrealistic or even impossible to install an LED wall in the home? No, but in today’s world with advancing consumer video technology, an LED screen will provide its best ROI with its cost more justified when it can achieve what other technologies cannot.

Before beginning the journey of integrating an LED wall at home, if you’re simply looking for a large screen, research the latest consumer-grade options first to determine if an LED wall will be the right fit. Some examples might be screen sizes over 120″ indoors, screen sizes over 110″ outdoors, curved screens, or creative displays with a unique format.

Tips for a successful home LED wall installation:

• Identify the needs and requirements of your space where you want to install the screen. Measure out the length and width of the area (if applicable).
• Consider what the viewing distance might be from the wall to where viewers may be standing, this may require some furniture planning. 
• Consider an optimal pixel pitch between 1.2 – 2.6mm for indoor environments; 1.9 – 3.9mm for outdoor environments. 
• Work with a well-qualified AV integrator that can perform the installation and future maintenance as well as mitigate any installation requirements or challenges. 

With DVS. There is an extensive line of products to choose from that offer exceptional image performance and can even be configured for HDR and 3D functions. All are ETL-listed for the highest safety compliance and our extensive network of nationwide dealers is available to assist with seamless implementation.

[Photo Credit: One Shot Productions, Jim B.]