IPS Types

Josh Maynard

There are mainly three types of IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels commonly used in LCD monitors and displays:

e-IPS (Enhanced In-Plane Switching)

e-IPS panels are the most basic type of IPS panel. They offer improved color accuracy and wider viewing angles compared to TN (Twisted Nematic) panels but may have slightly slower response times. These panels are often used in budget or entry-level monitors. Some of their features include:

  • Cost: e-IPS panels are typically more budget-friendly compared to S-IPS and H-IPS panels, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
  • Decent Color Accuracy: While not as color-accurate as S-IPS or H-IPS panels, e-IPS panels still provide good color reproduction suitable for general use and some light content creation tasks.
  • Wider Viewing Angles: e-IPS panels offer wider viewing angles compared to TN panels, making them superior in this regard for budget displays.

S-IPS (Standard In-Plane Switching)

 S-IPS panels are a step up from e-IPS panels in terms of color accuracy and overall performance. They provide excellent color reproduction and wide viewing angles, making them suitable for professional graphics work and high-quality displays. Their main selling points are:

  • Better Color Accuracy: S-IPS panels generally have improved color accuracy over e-IPS panels, making them more suitable for professional graphics work and tasks that demand precise color reproduction.
  • Enhanced Viewing Angles: S-IPS panels provide slightly better viewing angles than e-IPS panels, which can be advantageous for collaborative work and multi-user settings.
  • Moderate Cost: S-IPS panels are usually priced higher than e-IPS but are still reasonably affordable for those who require better color performance without breaking the bank.

H-IPS (High-Performance In-Plane Switching)

 H-IPS panels are a more advanced version of IPS technology. They offer even better color accuracy and viewing angles than S-IPS panels. H-IPS panels are commonly used in high-end monitors, including those designed for professional video editing, graphic design, and other color-critical tasks. Features include:

  • Superior Color Accuracy: H-IPS panels offer the best color accuracy among the three types, making them the preferred choice for professional content creation, including video editing and high-end graphics work.
  • Excellent Viewing Angles: H-IPS panels often have the widest viewing angles, ensuring that colors remain consistent even when viewed from extreme angles.
  • Premium Build and Features: Monitors with H-IPS panels are usually of higher quality, with premium build materials, advanced features, and better overall performance.
  • Higher Cost: H-IPS panels are the most expensive of the three IPS types, which may limit their accessibility to those with larger budgets.

Overall

In summary, the choice between e-IPS, S-IPS, and H-IPS panels depends on your specific needs and budget:

  • e-IPS is suitable for budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability and reasonably good color performance for everyday tasks.
  • S-IPS strikes a balance between cost and color accuracy, making it suitable for users who need better color performance without a premium price tag.
  • H-IPS is the top choice for professionals who require the highest level of color accuracy, viewing angles, and build quality, even though it comes at a higher cost.

When selecting a monitor, consider the type of work you’ll be doing, your budget, and your personal preferences to determine which IPS panel type is the best fit for your needs.

It’s also worth noting that advancements in display technology continue to evolve, and some manufacturers may use proprietary names and technologies to differentiate their IPS panels. Additionally, there are variations within these categories, such as e-IPS+ or AH-IPS, which indicate slight improvements or modifications to the standard IPS technology. When choosing a monitor or display, it’s essential to consider the specific features and performance characteristics of the IPS panel being used rather than solely relying on the panel type itself.