Matte-screen LCD TVs compared

July 18, 2011 1:33 PM

The sole picture-quality advantage of glossy screens we've observed, at least when done correctly, is that they can in some cases preserve black-level performance--dark areas stay darker--in bright rooms somewhat better than their matte cousins.

In our book, that plus doesn't outweigh the big minus of a glossy screen: bright objects reflected therein, such as windows opposite the screen, lamps, or even lighter furniture and clothing worn by viewers appear brighter, sharper, and more distracting than they do when reflected in a matte screen.

That's why, for bright-room viewing or situations where ambient light is difficult to control, we prefer LCD screens with a matte finish. If you do, too, check out the matte LCDs below.