Pixel Pitch: What It Is and Why It Matters
When people talk about LED panels, screens, + walls pixel pitch is usually one of the first specifications mentioned, + one of the least clearly explained.
Pixel pitch is simply the distance, in millimetres, between the centres of two adjacent pixels on an LED panel. A smaller number means the pixels are closer together, resulting in higher resolution and a sharper image at closer viewing distances.
For example:
- A P2.5 panel has pixels 2.5 mm apart
- A P4 panel has pixels 4 mm apart
This difference has a big impact on how a screen looks, but only in the context of viewing distance.
Viewing distance vs resolution
A smaller pixel pitch doesn’t automatically mean “better” in all situations.
At a certain distance the human eye can no longer resolve individual pixels so beyond that point extra resolution is largely wasted. There is also something to be said for the aesthetic of a wider pixel pitch, so there is no right or wrong beyond getting the end result you are looking for.
The general rule is that smaller pixel pitch modules make sense for close-up viewing for exhibitions, small rooms, + more details visuals detailed visuals. A larger pixel pitch works well, + is more efficient, for longer viewing distances such as stages, club backdrops, outdoor use.
Trade-offs
As with everything, there are trade-offs to be made when deciding which pixel pitch to go for.
Smaller pixel pitch panels typically:
- cost more
- draw more power per square metre
- require more data bandwidth
- place higher demands on controllers
Whilst larger pixel pitch panels are:
- more budget friendly
- easier to scale up
- better suited to experimental or modular setups
The practical takeaway
Pixel pitch isn’t about chasing the smallest number, it’s about choosing a pitch that makes sense for where the screen will be used, how close people will be, + what kind of content you’re showing.
Most real-world LED setups are a compromise, so the right answer is what works best for your requirements.
