While an average person thinks that all monitors are the same, besides the resolution and size, there are so many other intricate details that make up a monitor. In the modern models, details like the color reproduction, response time, viewing angles and input lag are the differentiating factors for monitors. The PLS monitor is made by Samsung and claim to offer better viewing angles than the IPS monitors. Ideally, the PLS or Plane to Line Switching monitor is similar to the IPS technology.
The two panels have the same advantages and disadvantages, with a few additions on the PLS monitors. The overall production cost of the PLS monitors, by Samsung is about 15% less than the IPS counterpart, which makes the monitors relatively cheaper.
Essentially, the PLS monitor promises more functionality like better image quality, more brightness, and all these will be at a lower price than the IPS models. With this in mind, there are a number of people who are out there looking for the best PLS monitor and tend to be confused due to the various models in the market, and not to mention the competition from the IPS panel monitors.
Surprisingly, there is very little difference between these panels, which may make it quite difficult for someone to choose the right monitor. With this article, we will try and demystify the few aspects that set the PLS monitors apart, and hopefully make it easier for you to pick the right monitor that will serve your needs, in the best way possible.
Benefits
As mentioned earlier, the PLS monitors share the same advantages with the IPS display panels. However, there are some additional benefits that PLS monitors promise to offer. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Compared to the IPS panels, the PLS monitors are relatively cheap due to the lower production costs associated with them.
- The PLS monitor offer enhanced color and better image quality, making them ideal for professional tasks that require accurate color reproduction.
- The PLS monitor has increased brightness and is visible even in well-lit places.
- You will enjoy a wider viewing angle with this type of monitor, and the color is consistent, irrespective of the angle you are sitting at.
- The PLS technology enhances the quality of the image and as such, there will be minimal instances of dark areas or ghosting effects on the screen.
- There are elements that will control external interferences like light, heat, and temperature such that the image quality is not distorted.
Who Can Use PLS Monitors
Whether you need better viewing angles, more brightness, more flexibility or a consistent color reproduction, the PLS monitor will be a perfect choice. While there are some people who may not really tell the difference, gamers, photographers, graphic designers and video editors will appreciate the amazing features that the PLS panel has.
If your profession involves multi-monitor setup, then you should also consider the PLS technology. While the PLS monitors seem to be more costly than the ordinary screens, you will find that the features that they have to offer are worth the price.
As such, the PLS monitors can be used for entertainment or for professional use. They have been made in such a manner that they will offer the best features. It is worth noting that there a number of brands on the market and each may have distinctive features.
Cons
There are so many people who really love the PLS monitor and this is the main reason for the growing popularity and demand. However, there are some disadvantages that are associated with these PLS panels.
- One of the main challenges of these monitors is the response time, which is slower than the TN models. This makes it rather disappointing for the fast-paced scenes in a game or movie.
- In as much as the PLS monitors are cheaper than the IPS monitors, they are still somewhat expensive for most people. As a result, the average consumer cannot enjoy the great functionality of the PLS monitors.
- They are generally quite fragile, attributable to their design and slim profile.
- Some of the stands on this monitor are not sturdy and after a while, they start wobbling.
Ideally, the advantages of the PLS monitors outweigh the disadvantages. It is also important to note that these drawbacks do not cut across the board; you may find some setbacks with a particular model, but this does not necessarily mean that it affects all PLS monitors. This is why it is imperative to consider all factors before settling for a particular model.
Key Features to Consider
Having established that there are some pros and cons of the PLS monitors, there are some basic features that you should pay attention to when buying these monitors. Some of the main features to look out for include:
- Size: You should consider the size of the monitor that you wish to buy. This is mainly influenced by the purpose that you intend to use the monitor for. In most cases, a good PLS monitor size is from 21 inches, upwards.
- Response Time: This is quite important, especially for the gamers. This is the time the screen takes to process data and display an image. A good monitor should have a response time of about 4ms.
- Connectivity: Your PLS monitor will be used with various devices and as such you need to look at the connection options available. Some of the best inputs to look out for include HDMI, VGA, Display Port, DVI and USB.
- Resolution: The resolution of the monitor will determine the image quality and color that is displayed. Your PLS monitor should be at least Full HD so that you can get the best from it.
- Refresh Rate: This will determine the transition from one window frame to another. This is also an essential element for those who are into gaming.
Top Manufacturers
- Samsung
- Qnix
- Yido Display
- Yamakasi
- Philips
- Wasabi Mango
- ASUS
Review of Best PLS Monitors
With all the information provided above, you now have a clear idea about the PLS monitors. You can easily one that suits your needs, based on the details that we have discussed above. In order to help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed some of the top models that use the PLS technology below.
Samsung 370 S24E370DL
This monitor has a blue semi-transparent finish on all sides, which gives it an appealing look. The ultra-thin bezel gives you more viewing space and complements the great design. This means that your eyes will be drawn to the screen without any distractions. The Touch of Color is a feature enunciation and the T-shape stand gives this screen a refined finish.
The screen uses the PLS panel technology and this provides a wider viewing angle deeper colors and more brightness. With the Full HD resolution, and a 178 degree wide viewing angle, you will get the best quality images and a comfortable viewing angle. The monitor has AMD FreeSync and has a response time of 4ms.
The Eye Saver Mode will reduce the flickers and the blue light emissions so as to prevent eye fatigue. As such, you can watch movies, play games and read for longer periods, without any eye strain.
YIDO Display 325FHDCV
This is a 32” curved screen that has a PLS display. With this combination, you will be able to enjoy great viewing from different angles, without the color reproduction being compromised. The screen has a response time of 5ms and 2ms G to G. This will make it easier to enjoy gaming and running other applications on this screen.
The Yido monitor has a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. You can connect to a number of devices using the D-Sub, DVI and HDMI connectivity inputs.
The flicker free technology will keep your eyes free from strain, even when you have to work for longer periods. The monitor has a flexible aluminum stand that allows you to adjust the monitor to your comfortable view. It has a dynamic contrast ratio of 5 million: 1, which enhances the quality of the images displayed.
Philips 272P4QPJKEB
This is a professional monitor that has a PLS Quad HD display technology. The resolution of 2560 x 1440 will ensure that all the images are crystal clear and rich in color. The technology ensures that you get 8 bit color, and 109 ppi images. You can enhance your productivity using the multitier feature.
You can enjoy a dual view and connect, while the webcam will make it easier to collaborate, which eventually saves you time and money. The monitor is quite flexible and adjustable.
You can enhance your vertical display view using the 90-degree pivot feature. The SmartConnect feature allows you to connect devices using Display Port, Dual-link DVI, and the HDMI ports. You can use the USB ports to transfer data and to power your devices.
With the PowerSensor feature, you will get to save up to 80% of the energy costs. The SmartErgoBase allows ergonomic adjustments on the screen.
New Qnix Qx2710 LED Evolution ⅱ 2
This Qnix screen is made in Korea and uses PLS technology to offer exceptional performance. The 27” screen is known to have an exceptional performance with the option to overclock to higher refresh rates, depending on your needs. The screen used AU Optronics AHVA panel, which supports the 10-bit color.
The AD bard inside the monitor offers virtual 4K support with a 3840 x 2160 resolution. You will not have to worry when working for longer periods using the monitor as it has a flicker free backlight and low blue light mode to reduce eye fatigue.
This version of the Qnix has a number of connectivity options to offer like the dual-link DVI, Display Port 1.2, D-Sub, and HMDI. If you have encrypted content, you can use this screen since all the connection options are HDCP certified. You will also enjoy quality audio output from the dual 5 W stereo speakers.
YAMAKASI M320PFH
Yamakasi M320PFH is a 32” screen with a curved Full HD PLS panel and has a white bezel, which makes it fit into any space perfectly. This ergonomically curved screen has the option of Aim Point Assist, which will make it easier to use all the features that are available.
You can connect the screen to other devices using the VGA, DVI and HDMI connection options. With the Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080, you will get quality images.
The monitor has a refresh rate of 60Hz, which is ideal for most applications. The high response rate of 5ms and GTG 2ms, you will enjoy using the monitor for gaming and other professional applications. The Aspect Ratio of 16:9 wide and the 5 million: 1 dynamic contrast ratio will work to provide exceptional image quality. This monitor is compatible with the VESA 100mm mount.
WASABI-MANGO FHD245 HONEY
This 24-inch screen has a PLS panel display technology and a LED backlight to enhance the display quality. The monitor has a 16:10 WUXGA resolution of 1920 x 1200, which is slightly higher than the standard Full HD resolution. It also has a standard refresh rate of 60 Hz, which is quite impressive.
The flicker free technology is aimed at ensuring that your eyes are well-protected from fatigue when you have to use the monitor for longer periods. The PLS panel technology supports an 8 bit color depth with 16.7 million colors and offers a wide viewing angle of 178/178.
You will use the DVI, D-Sub and audio input connections. The screen has dual speakers of 2.5 watts, which provide sufficient audio output. The monitor stand is quite flexible and allows you to adjust the monitor to your preferred viewing angle.
Conclusion
If you have any experience with IPS monitors, then you will love the PLS monitors. Although most of the features are similar to what the IPS technology offers, there are other benefits that you will enjoy with this display technology by Samsung.
As you may have realized, most of the monitors seem to share the same features, however, a thorough review will reveal the distinguishing features in each model. We do hope that this can serve as an excellent guide in your quest to find the best PLS monitor.
Using the information provided and the specific reviews, it is our sincere hope that you can be able to make an informed decision when purchasing a PLS monitor.
