What Is a Video Wall?
Historically, video walls consisted of multiple screens tiled together to create one large display. While these setups allow for striking visuals, traditional multi-screen configurations often have visible bezels between screens, slightly reducing the immersive experience.
Advances in LED technology now enable seamless single-screen solutions, delivering a truly immersive display without visual interruptions.
In this blog, we explore different types of video walls, how they are installed, the pros and cons of DIY vs professional solutions, costs, maintenance considerations, and more.
Types of Video Walls Explained
Video walls have multiple use cases across corporate offices, concerts, broadcast studios, and more. They are widely used for:
- Digital signage and branding
- Employee communication
- Training and development
- Visitor engagement
- Control rooms and command centres
- Augmented reality environments
Video walls also come in various configurations and styles:
- LED, LCD, or projector video walls
- Multi-screen or seamless single-screen setups
- Flat, curved, tunnels, cubes, and custom structures
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
LCD video walls use multiple screens with thin bezels, offering high resolution at a lower cost. While effective, the bezel lines can be noticeable.
LED (Light Emitting Diode)
Direct-view LED (dvLED) solutions eliminate bezels for a seamless look. LED technology generally provides higher brightness and better energy efficiency compared to LCD.
How to Install a Video Wall
- Define your objective: Branding, signage, presentations, control rooms, or hybrid meetings.
- Choose the right display type: LED, LCD, or projection depending on space and lighting.
- Decide on size and pixel pitch: Consider viewing distance and aspect ratio.
- Source equipment: Displays, processors, media players, and mounting systems.
- Prepare the site: Ensure sufficient power, ventilation, and wall support.
- Install and calibrate: Align panels and configure the system.
- Test and optimise: Adjust brightness, colour, and resolution.
Tip: dvLED allows for more flexible shapes and sizes compared to LCD-based multi-screen setups.
DIY vs Professional Installation
A video wall is a major investment designed to impress and function flawlessly. While DIY installation may appear cost-effective, improper setup can lead to poor image quality and long-term issues.
DIY Video Wall Installation
- Lower initial costs
- Risk of misalignment and poor calibration
- Potential wiring and software configuration issues
- Lack of future-proofing and maintenance planning
Professional Video Wall Installation
- Seamless alignment and polished finish
- Expert calibration for optimal brightness and colour
- Reliable integration with AV and networking systems
- Ongoing support and maintenance
- Higher upfront investment but stronger long-term value
Professional installation ensures maximum performance and protects your investment.
Pro Tips From Our Team
Pro Tip #1: Pixel Pitch
Pixel pitch — the distance between the centre of one pixel to the next — is critical. A smaller pixel pitch delivers higher image quality at closer viewing distances but typically increases cost.
Key factors influencing optimal viewing distance:
- Display size
- Aspect ratio
- Element height (size of important on-screen content)
In retail and public spaces, visual impact may be more important than ultra-fine resolution. In long meeting rooms, element height and readability often matter more than sheer pixel density.
Visual Acuity Distance (VAD)
Visual Acuity Distance (sometimes called retina distance) is the point at which a person with 20/20 vision can no longer distinguish individual pixels.
It is calculated by multiplying pixel pitch by 3438. For example, with a minimum viewing distance of 8m, you would require a pixel pitch of 2.32mm or smaller.
Pro Tip #2: Not All dvLED Is Equal
- Chip-on-Board (COB): Higher contrast, finer pixel pitch, greater durability, but higher cost.
- Surface Mounted Device (SMD): Brighter and more cost-effective but lower contrast.
- Glue-on-Board (GOB): Resin-coated SMD offering increased durability and brightness perception.
How Much Does a Video Wall Cost?
Pricing varies significantly depending on size, pixel pitch, manufacturer, and complexity. LED technology evolves rapidly, meaning costs shift frequently.
Working with a vendor-agnostic AV integrator ensures you maximise your budget and select the right solution.
Does a Video Wall Need Ongoing Maintenance?
Yes. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
- Software updates: Keep processors and players current.
- Component checks: Ensure power supplies and modules function correctly.
- Professional servicing: Maintenance contracts reduce downtime.
Our AV Support & Maintenance Service ensures peak performance, prevents downtime and protects your video wall investment.
Get in Touch
Planning a video wall? Let’s discuss your requirements and book a site audit to find the perfect solution for your business.