A new technology is gaining momentum in LCD panel backlighting: Micro RGB. You’ll be seeing much more of it this year.
Micro RGB is closely related to Mini LED technology. In other words, it uses local dimming, where darker areas of the image are illuminated less and brighter areas more, resulting in higher contrast ratios and improved picture quality. In that sense, LCD technology is still far from reaching the end of its lifespan. Now, however, Micro RGB TVs take things a step further. Here, the backlight zones are built using full-color RGB elements. This approach promises more natural and accurate color reproduction.
There is a trade-off, though: compared to Mini LED local dimming, Micro RGB delivers somewhat lower contrast ratios. On the other hand, RGB LEDs are capable of producing higher peak brightness levels.
At the most recent CES, several manufacturers showcased Micro RGB models. One example is Samsung’s 130-inch Mammoth 130. Since these are first-generation, early “show-off” models, prices are still eye-watering: the Mammoth 130, for instance, carries a price tag of $29,999 (a ‘smaller’ version was introduced last August). LG also presented Micro RGB TVs at the same CES, offering not only a 100-inch model but also 86- and 75-inch versions.
Later this year, additional screen sizes—starting at around 55 inches—are expected to appear. These should come at significantly more approachable price points than the pioneering models currently on display.