Curved vs flat screen, which is better? Comparison, pros and cons

Home / / Curved vs flat screen, which is better? Comparison, pros and cons

As the 4K TV market grows and evolves, new standards and design trends for these popular devices are also emerging. One of these newfangled trends is definitely curved screen TVs, which have caused multiple debates among consumers, tech observers and manufacturers, namely, the same question is constantly being raised - “Which is better, curved screen TVs or classic flat screens?” .

If you also asked this question, then I want to please you that you will find the answer to it in this article. On this page we have outlined all the main arguments, problems, factors and technically important aspects regarding curved and flat screens, and also considered all the pros and cons, doing it objectively, competently, tastefully and without a bunch of technical terms.

And if you are in doubt and cannot decide what kind of screen your TV should have, then I can definitely say that after reading the article, your desires will be more clear.

So, let's begin.

More on the topic: “What is 4K and ULTRA HD resolution.”

Aesthetics

The first and most important question that worries a buyer choosing between a curved and flat screen TV is an aesthetic question - “Which TV will look better, cooler, more fashionable and more beautiful in my apartment?” Right? Come on, this is really true - “Garson, wrap me the one that’s prettier!”

If we don’t touch functionality, but talk specifically about visual appeal, then I would say that TVs with curved screens look more impressive, unusual and futuristic than their flat counterparts.

Of course, it may be that curved screens in a few years will seem like nothing more than a strange fad if manufacturers suddenly decide that consumers don't need "curvature", however, now TVs with curved screens look very cool.

There are a couple of pitfalls:

• First, curved screen TVs are bulkier and bulkier, not only because of their shape, but also because of their slightly wider profile than flat screens. As you understand, such a device can hardly be called compact;
• Secondly, curved TVs are a real problem for people who decide to hang the device on the wall. Well, as a problem, maybe not a problem, but certainly not an ideal part of the interior according to Feng Shui. Unlike a flat panel, which can be hung on the wall and become invisible when viewed from the side, a curved TV creates a bulkier structure, which is not to everyone's taste.

To sum it up, I would say that aesthetically it makes more sense to buy a curved TV if you are going to place the device on a table, and a flat one if you want to mount the TV on a wall.

Vote

Which TV did you choose?

QLED Samsung UE78KS9000U

0.00 % ( 0 )

Samsung UE65RU7200U

0.00 % ( 0 )

QLED Samsung QE65Q8CNA

25.00 % ( 1 )

Samsung UE65NU8500U

25.00 % ( 1 )

Samsung UE65NU7300U

0.00 % ( 0 )

Samsung UE49NU7670U

25.00 % ( 1 )

Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 Curved

0.00 % ( 0 )

QLED Samsung UE55JS9000T

25.00 % ( 1 )

Immersion, or why size matters

This is perhaps the single most controversial and debatable argument that is used in favor of curved TVs, because this supposed characteristic is used by manufacturers to justify the curved design itself and, as a result, a higher price for the device.

This argument argues that a curved screen offers a higher level of immersion for viewers, which slightly expands the perceived amount of screen real estate for the TV diagonal. Combined with high-definition resolution, the curved screen should create a feeling of greater depth and immersion.

Unfortunately, this is true only in the general sense of this statement. For example, a 60-inch curved screen offers slightly more screen real estate than a 60-inch flat screen. That is, if the screen is curved, it will have a slightly larger actual diagonal, about 0.8-1 inch.

As a result of this small extra space, the field of view for a curved screen is slightly increased compared to a flat screen of the same diagonal. Field of view is the degree of viewing for a person sitting 2.4 meters from the screen. Thus, it turns out that the field of view for a 60-inch TV is greater than that of a flat-screen TV with the same diagonal at the same distance, by less than one degree. To be more precise, 29.00 versus 29.48 degrees.

In general, in practice it turns out that the vaunted immersiveness of curved screens does not have such obvious advantages over flat displays. Yes, many movie theaters have been using curved screens for years to create a more immersive experience, and it works. Do you know why? Because size matters! On screens with a diagonal of several meters, there is indeed immersion, but on screens with a diagonal of 40-65 inches, unfortunately, you are unlikely to see the difference in the image between a flat and a curved screen.

Main technical characteristics

Without understanding the main characteristics, it is impossible to evaluate the device and make the right decision. For curved and straight TVs, the indicators will be different, but both devices should be considered through the prism of the following defining parameters:

1. Brightness. Today, all televisions are produced with sufficient indicators of this characteristic. In addition, it can be adjusted in all devices.
2. Permission. This value determines the ratio of the number of matrix elements per unit area horizontally and vertically. The higher the pixel element count, the better the image quality. Ideal picture quality on the screen is obtained only if this value completely matches the video signal and the monitor.
3. Contrast. This characteristic indicates the difference in brightness in different parts of the screen, based on the brightest and darkest. It is divided into static and dynamic differences in the characteristics of different parts of the image.
4. Viewing angle. This is an indicator of the maximum angle to the screen plane at which the image is not distorted. Indicators considered normal are 175-178 degrees vertically and horizontally.
5. Response time. This is the time the pixel's state changes. The shorter this time, the clearer the picture will be and the less blurriness will be noticeable.
6. Connectivity. The TV must have a sufficient number of connectors and their location must be convenient so that the consumer can connect to the device everything that he would not want (camera, flash drive, headphones, antenna, home theater, satellite receiver, etc.).
7. Screen diagonal. This parameter is measured in inches. You need to choose the diagonal based on the distance at which viewing will take place. The optimal distance should be equal to 3-4 screen diagonals.

Of the above, more attention should be given to resolution first.

Viewing angle

Screen curvature may affect viewing angles. Unlike the curved screen of a commercial movie theater, which places all viewers within the ideal viewing angles of the giant curved screen, a typical consumer curved screen TV measuring 55-70 inches diagonally effectively reduces the ideal viewing area in front of it when the eyes are positioned more than 35 degrees in any direction. from the sides from the center.

In other words, the actual ideal space and viewing angles of a curved TV may be less than that of a flat screen TV. Anyone unfortunate enough to sit and watch TV at an angle greater than 35 degrees from center will be viewing the picture from a bad angle. This can not only be annoying, but also cause unnecessary strain on the eyes as the brain tries to compensate for defects in the image.

On the other hand, the larger the screen size of a curved TV, the greater its ideal viewing angle. TVs from 70 inches are already more comfortable in this regard.

It should be noted that with a slight offset from the center of the screen, curvature can indeed have a positive effect on the dimensionality, but this does not compensate for the disadvantages that were described above.

I would like to say that there is a type of TV in which the curved screen does not affect the viewing angle limits, and does not lead to color fading, as well as to a decrease in contrast, which is so noticeable in LCD screens. All these disadvantages are not present in OLED displays, and therefore curved TVs with such displays look much better than TVs with LCD displays.

Conclusion

In the end, what matters most is the quality of the panel itself.

For professional use, you'll want an IPS panel display for the most accurate colors and widest viewing angles, and all widescreen IPS displays are flat screen.

As for extra-wide models, it is for this reason that models intended for professional use have slight curves; they eliminate distortion without stretching objects close to the edges of the screen.

For gaming, multimedia, and everyday use, we highly recommend purchasing a curved monitor if you need an ultra-wide display. When it comes to widescreen models, it's a matter of personal preference.

Reflection

Reflection in any TV, regardless of whether it has a curved or flat screen, is determined by the level of gloss on the screen, and not by the curvature. Glossy screens will have reflection in any case, even in a dimly lit room. To get rid of reflection completely, the screen must be matte.

Bright TV screens with good color gamut, contrast and brightness are less susceptible to reflection effects, and it makes no difference whether the screen is curved or flat. But it's still worth noting that on curved screens the reflection is stretched out a bit, thus taking up a little more screen real estate than on a flat screen.

An excellent solution to this problem is to position the TV correctly so that there are no bright light sources in front of the screen. And in general, it would be better to watch TV in dark lighting, be it a TV with a curved screen or a classic flat one.

Should you choose a flat or curved monitor?

Considering all the above information, we can safely say that the final decision largely depends on how we intend to use the monitor.

Curved models will prove to be a good choice, especially for players. Most games often look much better on these monitors. This is due to the lack of interference, as well as the ability to see more details. Expanded perspective works great in games.

A curved monitor should also be chosen for long office work. Our eyes will suffer less, which can be very important. It is also worth noting the fact that curved monitors are ideal for creating stations consisting of several connected monitors. Models with different degrees of curvature are available on the market, thanks to which we can create joint structures very efficiently.

If you are looking for a monitor for standard work or for watching videos in a group, it is better to choose flat models. There are different types of them on the market, so you can easily find a monitor that will suit all your needs.

Advantages and disadvantages

This chapter will help you a lot when choosing a TV if you are still unsure whether you want a flat or curved one.

Pros:

• Slight (very small) immersiveness . On a curved TV you won’t get the same effect as in a cinema, but it’s still there, albeit in a very small percentage. And, it’s worth noting that as the screen size increases, so does the level of immersion;
• Enhancing depth. There is clearly something to give a plus here. The depth created by a curved screen, especially with displays larger than 65 inches and additional picture quality technologies such as OLED, can really enhance the viewing experience, especially in 3D;
• Increased field of view. As we said, the field of view is indeed wider. Even if only a little, but still this effect is there;
• Improved contrast. Since the best 4K TVs, such as LG's OLED and Samsung's top-of-the-line models, have curved screens, curved screens can be said to have excellent contrast. But this point is quite controversial, because the same technology can be applied to flat screens;
• Appearance. TVs with curved screens look really cool, and you can’t even argue with this advantage. Yes, they have their drawbacks and can be a little obtrusive when mounted on a wall, but they still look damn good - striking, elegant, sleek.

Minuses:

• Increased reflection. The curvature of the screen slightly increases the size of the reflection;
• Limited viewing angle. A curved screen reduces the viewing angle, especially for TVs with a diagonal of less than 65 inches;
• The ideal picture is observed only from the center. Watching a 4K TV from outside the center corners will ruin the picture quality. This also applies to flat screens, but on curved screens this problem is more acute;
• Terrible for wall use. Unlike an unobtrusive flat screen, a curved one looks more voluminous and bulky;
• Size matters. In order to really feel the benefits under which curved screen technology is promoted by manufacturers, you need to buy a TV with the largest possible diagonal. And considering that these models are much more expensive than their flat counterparts, such a purchase will hit your pocket very hard;
• They are expensive. A TV with a curved screen costs an order of magnitude more than its flat counterpart, with the same screen diagonal and the same specifications. Manufacturers charge prices solely on curvature, which is very annoying.

TOP 9 models of curved TVs

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No. 9 – Samsung UE55RU7300U

Samsung UE55RU7300U
This model from a well-known company has a fairly large screen with a diagonal of 54.6 inches and very thin frames. So you can put it in almost any interior - the product will look organic. It has Smart TV functions and can easily connect to the wireless Internet. The presence of USB outputs will allow you to watch movies downloaded onto flash cards if you wish.

The color gamut is extensive - it is provided by the PurColor function. Thanks to it, the picture is perceived pleasantly and clearly, all shades are smoothed out and look harmonious. Even some films can be seen in a new way if you watch them on the screen of this TV.

The TV has an intelligent backlight control function, which allows you to achieve the effect of depth. It is easy to distinguish between objects in the foreground, as well as the background and remaining elements of the image.

The TV sound is good. The speakers produce both bass and high frequencies. If desired, you can also connect acoustics to the TV, providing yourself with a home theater.

The remote control is convenient and functional. Almost with one movement of a finger you can perform all the necessary actions. The TV also understands the Russian language - or rather, you can simply control it using your voice.

pros

• convenient control
• smart TV
• curved screen
• good contrast ratio
• nice colors
• loud noise

Minuses

• Processes movements a little poorly

Prices for Samsung UE55RU7300U TV

TV Samsung UE55RU7300Uк

No. 8 – QLED Samsung UE55JS9000T

QLED Samsung UE55JS9000T
A good TV with a nice appearance that will definitely please the unpretentious buyer. It is easy to use: a block with remote-type connectors, that is, if you need to connect something, you do not need to unfold the device every time.

Of course, this is 4K, and equipped with a powerful processor.

The diagonal is 55 inches, quite good for an oversized apartment and a small family. The presence of Smart TV and wireless Internet functions simplify the use of the model and significantly expand its functionality.

The model does not have 3D glasses or a webcam, as users write in their reviews, noting that the younger model had these technological gadgets. The disadvantages include the fact that the device heats up quite seriously if you watch it for a long time. Otherwise, it’s a good model for the money.

pros

• smart TV
• WiFi
• good picture
• good sound when starting through the audio system
• beautiful appearance

Minuses

• there are highlights of the matrix on the sides
• gets hot when used for a long time

Prices for QLED TV Samsung UE55JS9000T

QLED TV Samsung UE55JS9000T

No. 7 – Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 Сurved

Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 Сurved
The company is very actively exploring the Russian market and now offers customers not only smartphones, but even TVs. This model can boast of having a fairly large screen measuring 54.6 inches. The display refresh rate is 50 Hz, and the resolution is, of course, 4K.

This could not have happened without the Smart TV function, which is now available in all new models. This TV is comparable in its capabilities even to some PCs. On it you can view pages on the Internet, and even play some online games. Operating system – Android. If desired, you can install a lot of interesting applications on the model.

The backlight is based on LEDs, which are located almost evenly behind the back of the matrix. So the TV produces uniform brightness without extraneous image glare.

The sound is not bad for TV, its power is 16 W. Inside there are two built-in speakers that create a fairly spacious sound image.

pros

• smart TV
• nice design
• big screen
• low cost
• uniform illumination

Minuses

• Chinese language and the complexity of Russification

Prices for Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 Сurved

TV Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 Сurved

No. 6 – Samsung UE49NU7670U

Samsung UE49NU7670U
TV on an elegant stand, thanks to which you can hide all the wires from view. The model with a curved screen is one of the leaders on the market, as it provides excellent color reproduction, a good picture and allows you to watch movies with pleasure.

The effect of image volume was achieved by installing a powerful processor. Moreover, the TV provides an excellent level of brightness and demonstrates a contrasting and clear picture.

The model is easy to control. If desired, you can connect it to the Internet and search for interesting pages without using a computer. Moreover, the model can search for interesting films or content itself, focusing on the user’s viewing history. Any videos from your computer can be watched on the big screen also thanks to the wireless Internet function. Plus, there are the possibilities of voice control and even ensuring the operation of the smart home system.

pros

• popular model
• voice control
• convenient stand in which you can hide wires
• clear picture
• powerful graphics processor
• great sound

Minuses

• not very convenient and understandable menu

Reviews and prices for Samsung UE49NU7670U TV

No. 5 – Samsung UE65NU7300U

Samsung UE65NU7300U
A nice and smart model – again from a well-known company. Truly, Samsung has captured the TV market in Russia and is not giving up its position. This is a 4K model with a large 65-inch screen, intuitive controls and an ultra-thin bezel around the display. Watching movies on it or watching your favorite videos from the Internet is a pleasure. By the way, you can watch videos in UltraHD resolution, and the picture will be clear and juicy.

The sound is good, according to the manufacturer and user reviews. You can play various games on the TV, experiencing complete immersion in the story - you can connect absolutely any console to it.

Controlling the TV is very convenient thanks to the smart remote control included in the kit. This remote control can also be used to control other devices that are connected to the TV. The presence of a satellite tuner makes it possible to receive a digital signal. And your favorite TV show can be easily recorded and saved on any media if desired.

pros

• screen recording
• famous brand
• big screen
• convenient control
• excellent color rendition
• ability to control other devices using the TV remote control

Minuses

• image quality deteriorates over time

Prices for Samsung UE65NU7300U TV

TV Samsung UE65NU7300U

No. 4 – Samsung UE65NU8500U

Samsung UE65NU8500U
Not the cheapest TV model, but large in size and with a very thin frame, ensuring comfortable viewing of any video for the whole family. This is also a smart TV, which pleases with the presence of a large number of functions, the ability to watch UltraHD video accompanied by high-quality sound. The widescreen display not only makes it possible to enjoy a beautiful picture, but also to play - by connecting any console, you can enjoy your favorite game with complete immersion.

You can control the system using a universal remote control, which is also suitable for controlling other devices in the house - just connect them to the TV using wireless Internet. If desired, this model makes it possible to record your favorite TV shows and watch them again.

pros

• voice control
• big size
• thin frame
• many functions
• Nice picture

Minuses

• there is incompatibility with some video formats

Prices for Samsung UE65NU8500U TV

TV Samsung UE65NU8500U

No. 3 – QLED Samsung QE65Q8CNA

QLED Samsung QE65Q8CNA
A model that is popular with many, as it has a large diagonal of 64.5 inches, the presence of all the functions without which it is impossible to use a modern TV, and an excellent picture. Overall, the TV is considered one of the best options on the market in terms of price-quality ratio.

The model is perfect for watching movies or spending time playing your favorite games. The strict design will allow you to install a TV in any apartment - it will suit a wide variety of interiors. The screen is frameless, which allows you to truly immerse yourself in the movie without being distracted by extraneous factors. Sometimes it seems that the display is simply floating in the air.

The Smart TV function, the presence of a wireless network connection, USB ports and a number of other elements make the TV convenient to use and functional. It works without stuttering, produces an excellent image with good color rendition and perfect sharpness. The price for this option is very reasonable.

pros

• nice price
• no frame
• many functions
• strict design
• large diagonal
• popular model

Minuses

• darkening stripes when driving on a dark background

Prices for QLED TV Samsung QE65Q8CNA

QLED TV Samsung QE65Q8CNA

No. 2 – Samsung UE65RU7200U

Samsung UE65RU7200U
Another handsome Samsung that managed to win the love of customers. This is a high-resolution TV with a diagonal of 65 inches, which produces an excellent 4K picture with good and rich colors.

The presence of a wireless Internet connection function makes it possible to use a TV instead of a computer, as well as connect various devices to it. Smart TV provides downloading and installation of a number of useful applications, which means that the functionality of the model will become even greater.

The TV has a number of additional functions: for example, it can be programmed to turn off the screen at a certain time or set child protection so that they do not access prohibited or paid content and do not connect it. The presence of a special tuner makes it possible to refuse to purchase additional equipment in order to be able to view video received as a digital signal.

pros

• child protection
• Smart TV
• more convenient management
• advanced functionality
• large diagonal
• rich colors

Minuses

• HDMI ports are inconveniently located

Reviews and prices for Samsung UE65RU7200U

No. 1 – QLED Samsung UE78KS9000U

QLED Samsung UE78KS9000U
One of the best TV models with a curved display. This is an ideal option for a large room, since the diagonal of this device is 78 inches, which is almost 2 meters. Thanks to this TV, evenings with your family can turn into a real trip to the cinema.

4K resolution makes it possible to watch videos in the best quality. Moreover, the clarity and realism of the picture are ensured. A powerful processor will easily process the video signal and ensure that its parameters correspond to Ultra HD. Quantum dot technology makes it possible to obtain a lot of new shades, which also makes the picture even more realistic.

The TV has an anti-glare coating, which increases the comfort of watching programs even on a sunny day. And the special Auto Depth Enhancer function itself is capable of increasing the contrast of the background and foreground images - this achieves an even greater immersion effect.

pros

• immersive effect
• big screen
• anti-glare surface
• Smart TV
• good quality
• great image
• powerful processor

Minuses

• not detected

Prices for QLED TV Samsung UE78KS9000U

QLED TV Samsung UE78KS9000U

Price/benefit and our final word

As you've probably guessed, we're not fans of curved screens. For the most part, this technology creates more problems than benefits, and several advantages do not cover up the much larger number of objective disadvantages. In addition, such TVs are much more expensive than their flat-panel counterparts. Given the weaknesses of the curvature, we're not sure the price for these TVs is justified.

On the other hand, fans of manufacturers like Samsung, LG and Panasonic have little choice if they want to buy a flagship, since all the best models come with curved screens.

This factor, in part, creates a false impression among potential buyers that the best TVs are those with curved screens. They see that the manufacturer has announced the next flagship, and this flagship has a curved screen, and the consumer begins to think that curvature is cool.

To summarize, I would like to say that the curved screen does not do as much for the TV as we would like, not providing the user with what he expected when buying a curved TV. Yes, it slightly improves the viewing experience, but just a little, and only on large screens. But if you are fascinated by the appearance of such TVs, or just want to be trendy, then go ahead.

17 Sep 2021 S.Denchuk 34333

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Discussion: there is 1 comment

1. Ivan:
   10/04/2016 at 10:54

   Bent TVs certainly look cool, you can’t argue with that!

   Answer

Why Curved Screen Monitors Were Created

First of all, it's worth noting that small-screen technology Curvature on very large surfaces has proven to be the answer to the problems associated with image distortion that occurs on flat structures. They also appear on smaller screens, but in a very limited form.

One of the main reasons for the introduction of curvature in monitors was the desire to compensate for the distance between individual areas of the screen and the human eye. Curvilinear technology imitates the natural curvature of the eye in such a way that it evens out the gaps between individual image fragments. Expanding perspective also became important, but more on that in a moment.

It's worth knowing! Curved technologies are also used in the production of televisions. Such devices provide a completely different experience, especially when watching the latest movies or playing console games.

Let's sum it up

Having considered all the pros and cons of curved TVs, the conclusion suggests itself. It is wiser to choose equipment with a curved screen geometry for those who dream of a full-fledged home theater in their house or apartment. Proper placement of a monitor with a diagonal of over 75 inches, creating optimally comfortable viewing conditions in the room and placing viewers within the ideal viewing angle will reduce all the disadvantages of stylish displays to zero. But the main thing is that it will enhance the advantageous characteristics. Enjoy a realistic immersive experience.

It's not wise to spend money on a concave display if it's only going to be used for watching over-the-air television. It’s worth thinking about whether it might be more profitable to install a flat-screen TV with Smart TV at home. Experts have come to the conclusion that in everyday use, using a curved display creates more difficulties than advantages. But, be that as it may, the choice is yours.

According to statistics, the best TVs in this category are produced by Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic. They are the most expensive on the market.

When buying TV screens with a curved shape, you need to pay attention to the way it is controlled, the screen resolution (in the case of a home theater, it is wise to choose 4 K UHD options), the characteristics of the case, and the audio system. To ensure that the selected TV does not disappoint, you need to evaluate all its characteristics. Their price match.

Immersive viewing

Curved TVs provide the most immersive viewing experience. This advantage is determined by the design of the device. This is why cinemas also install screens of this shape. The image looks as natural and realistic as possible. This effect can be achieved due to the fact that the screen bends. The image “comes out” a little forward, literally flowing around the viewer. Although regular TVs are not much inferior to curved models in this regard.

The first reaction of viewers who watched the film on a curved TV was delight. They think they saw a three-dimensional image without 3D glasses. Although in fact this is an ordinary picture in 2D format. This effect occurs because the curved edges increase the visual perception of depth. Samsung enhances this effect by automatically adjusting the contrast of different parts of the picture.

Samsung QE75Q8С