notebook display question

[captainjohn42]

what is the difference between an LCD display and a TFT display? Which one is preferable, because I have 2 laptops picked out, each with one of the afforementioned displays. Thanks!

-j.

[Mr.Goodbytes]

Well there are different grades of LCD displays, TFT Active Matrix included. Active Matrix is the best, followed by High Performance Addressing (HPA), then Dual Scan but you usually don't see that around anymore. As opposed to the other two, TFT gives you a brighter screen with higher refresh rates and better color quality. Plus you can view it from an angle and glare is greatly reduced.

Actually, there are even different grades at the TFT level, and if I'm not mistaken, this is the ascending order of their level of quality: XGA, SXGA, and SXGA+. But that last one is usually reserved for the 15" displays.

By the way, what size display is it?

[Warthog]

Contrary to what Goodbytes said, I have and still do see Dual Scan displays. Just a month ago, I was shopping for laptops and was wondering about the difference between TFT and Dual Scan. Typically, Dual Scans are on the cheaper models. TFT is much better.

Warthog

[SDT]

If you can afford it, definately go for the TFT LCD display over a Dual Scan LCD display. You will see a difference if you are....
Viewing the screen from an angle.
Viewing a moving image such as an avi clip.
General image quality and colour is significantly better.

[grunt]

Go with the TFT - it is worth the difference. I have a Toshiba Tecra 510CDT P133. Even though the machine is a little old, it has a 12.1" TFT and I love it. I would NOT buy a laptop with a Dual Scan.

[captainjohn42]

Thanks a lot guys, I now understand what's going on. i really appreciate the help!

-j. bescup