IPS vs TFT LCD: Which is Fits Your Needs?

When you buy a monitor, besides the common “LCD vs LED” distinction (note: many so-called “LED” monitors are actually LCDs that use LED backlighting),

you should also compare the panel and driving technologies. Two names you’ll often see compared are TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) and IPS (In-Plane Switching).

It';s important to know that TFT refers to a transistor-based driving method used in many LCDs, while IPS is a specific type of LCD panel;

in everyday speech people sometimes use “TFT” to mean cheaper TN panels. These technologies differ clearly in image quality, viewing angles, response speed,

and typical use cases. The article below will explain their pros and cons so you can choose the right screen for your needs and budget.

What is TFT LCD?

TFT, short for Thin Film Transistor, is a core technology used in liquid crystal displays. Essentially, all displays that adopt active matrix control are based on TFT technology.

In simple terms, except for applications with very low display requirements—such as station information boards or calculators—most devices, including smartphones,

tablets, and monitors, rely on TFT. Even OLED displays commonly use TFT arrays to drive their pixels.

The key advantage of TFT is its ability to actively control each individual pixel on the screen, which greatly improves response speed and enhances overall display

performance.

What is an IPS Screen?

IPS is actually an upgraded form of TFT technology. In other words, an IPS screen is essentially still a TFT LCD, but it uses a more advanced and refined approach. You

might feel a bit confused at this point—don’t worry, let me explain further.

IPS stands for In-Plane Switching. Its main advantage lies in changing the alignment of liquid crystal molecules. By using a “horizontal switching” method, IPS can speed

up the deflection of molecules, ensuring that the screen remains clear and stable even when shaken, while also delivering richer color contrast and finer image details.

Moreover, it eliminates the blurring effect that traditional LCDs often show when subjected to pressure or vibration.

Because of these benefits, IPS technology is widely used in smartphones, tablets, digital signage, and other devices that require high image quality and stability. If you'd

like to learn more, you can check out our related article — IPS vs LCD Display — which gives a brief introduction to IPS technology.

Which is better, IPS or TFT?

Earlier we explained the basic concepts of LCD and IPS, so by now you should have a general understanding of both IPS and TFT. In simple terms, TFT is the underlying

technology of LCD panels, while IPS is an advanced subtype of TFT. To decide which is better, the key is whether the technology meets your specific needs, as both have

their own strengths.

Viewing Angle

IPS is essentially a “plane switching” technology. Because its liquid crystal molecules rotate within the same plane, IPS panels deliver much wider viewing angles.

No matter whether you view the screen from above, below, or from either side, the image remains clear—close to a full 180° viewing range. This is why many digital

signage manufacturers advertise their products as having a 178° viewing angle.

By comparison, traditional TFT panels (commonly referring to TN-TFT) have much narrower viewing angles, typically around 55°. Since they rely heavily on LED

backlighting, colors can shift and appear washed out when viewed from the side.

Response Speed

IPS panels not only improve viewing angles but also enhance pixel switching performance, resulting in smoother image transitions. However, TN-TFT panels usually offer

slightly faster raw response times, which is why they are sometimes favored in gaming displays where speed matters more than color accuracy or wide angles.

Color Performance

IPS screens deliver more vibrant colors, higher brightness, and finer image details, making them ideal for scenarios that require accurate color reproduction, such as

watching movies or editing photos. In comparison, TFT panels generally offer less impressive color performance and visual richness.

Price

In general, IPS screens tend to be more expensive than TFT panels. This is because IPS panels require a more complex manufacturing process—the liquid crystal molecules

must rotate within the same plane—which increases production costs. As a result, IPS is often used in higher-end devices such as tablets and premium monitors. On the

other hand, TFT panels have a simpler structure and narrower viewing angles, which makes them significantly more affordable.

Conclusion

Choosing between TFT and IPS display technology mainly depends on your specific needs. TFT monitors offer a more cost-effective option, but they have

limitations in viewing angles and overall display performance. IPS panels, on the other hand, provide superior visual quality, wider viewing angles, and more

vibrant colors.

VETO LCD is a well-known manufacturer that offers a wide range of LCD products, all equipped with IPS panels, delivering excellent quality at

an affordable price. If you're interested or have any questions, feel free to contact us. We hope this article helps you make an informed decision.