OLED isn’t exactly a new technology anymore. OLED or Organic Light Emitting Diode integrates organic compounds that lit up when fed with electricity. While there isn’t much of a difference between OLED and LED (simply, Light Emitting Diode), OLED’s are remarkably flexible, consume even less power and every organic pixel works independently. LEDs use blue semiconductor diodes in combination with yellow phosphor to emit light but OLED lighting technology comprises of a semiconductor material that is sandwiched between electrodes. OLEDs present the advantage of being put into a variety of devices and surfaces, including glass, metal, plastic. Since each pixel lights up independently, the light source isn’t from a single point but rather radiates throughout, creating a smoother experience. According to the latest market statistics, OLED lighting will grow up to a $1.3 billion market by 2023.
Difference Between Oled And Led Lighting
If you are looking to get an answer as to which is a better technology, there would be several factors counting in. In reality, OLED technology still has a long way to go before it catches up with the pace of LED. Further, LEDs offer more energy efficiency at just a fraction of the cost. LED light bulbs can be designed to emit concentrated lights that can travel to longer distances than OLEDs. LED fixtures are being used globally and are supposed to be the best answer for spot lighting.
OLEDs on the other hand are more like natural sunlight and soft/diffused illumination. This is also the reason, OLED lighting technology has been able to bring out superior/truer colors of the surrounding and consequently have found us in TV illumination technology. OLED scores 90 on the scale for color rating index. The maximum in this scale is hundred, the rating for sunlight.
OLED also presents an advantage over LED when it comes to wider lighting arrangements. By nature, OLED lighting comes in a panel allowing for wider distribution of lights without the need for extra components that scatter light. Since OLEDs provide a diffused light source, there is minimal glare or harsh shadows. LEDs in this aspect work as a concentrated light source and creating strong beams that light up smaller areas.
Oleds As Lighting Technology
Practically put, OLEDs can never replace LED technology for lighting. If OLEDs will be used in light bulbs, it would require increased amount of lighting and consequent heating up the organic elements which are quite sensitive. As a result they will degrade fast and the lifetime of the bulbs would be quite limited. Again, the light intensity/brightness produced by a single LED bulb is equal to three OLED panels. As a result they cannot be used in spaces that need proper lighting. OLED lighting technology is best used for decorations and filling up corners.
Where To Use OLED Lights?
As we have already learned, OLEDs are soft light and cannot be used in conventional lighting arrangements. However, they can be used as filler light to produce more details. OLED lighting technology is used in desk lamps and several kinds of workstations. Also, OLEDs are comparatively cool to touch and can be positioned near seats, above kitchen counters and spaces that are more likely to get physical proximity.
Last but not the least, OLED is still an expensive technology. Lighting fixtures made from OLED can cost multiple times the cost of LED alternatives. OLED is a beautiful alternative but yet to get fully functional.
