When we talk about resolution in LED screens, the key concept is not the total number of pixels — as in domestic television — but the Pixel Pitch: the physical distance between each point of light. Understanding this parameter is fundamental to choosing the right screen and not paying for more resolution than necessary.
What is Pixel Pitch?
Pixel Pitch (also written as P + number) is the distance in millimeters measured from the center of one LED diode to the center of the adjacent diode. The smaller this value, the closer the pixels are together and the greater the image density per square meter.
For example:
- P1.86 — Pixel Pitch of 1.86 mm. Very high resolution, for viewing at less than 2 meters.
- P2.6 — Pixel Pitch of 2.6 mm. Ideal for storefronts and interiors at 3–5 meters.
- P3.91 — Pixel Pitch of 3.91 mm. Excellent for large interiors or near outdoor installations.
- P10 — Pixel Pitch of 10 mm. For distances greater than 10 meters, such as building facades and roadside signage.
The viewing distance rule
The relationship between Pixel Pitch and viewing distance is direct and straightforward: the Pixel Pitch in millimeters should be approximately equal to the minimum viewing distance in meters for the image to be perfectly sharp without distinguishing individual dots.
This translates into the following practical guide:
- Distance of 2 meters → Pixel Pitch P2 or lower.
- Distance of 4 meters → Pixel Pitch P4.
- Distance of 8 meters → Pixel Pitch P8.
- Distance of 15 meters or more → Pixel Pitch P10 is more than sufficient.
Is higher resolution always better?
No. A very fine Pixel Pitch in a long-distance installation provides no perceptible visual advantage to the viewer, but it significantly increases the project cost. Optimal resolution is the one that guarantees a sharp image at the actual viewing distance of the audience, without paying for pixel density that no one will perceive.
On the other hand, at short distances a Pixel Pitch that is too large generates an image with visible dots and a pixelated appearance, which looks unprofessional for storefronts or display screens.
Pixel Pitch and screen format
Pixel Pitch also determines the format of the modules and therefore the minimum dimensions the screen can have. Some more common formats:
- Fine Pitch (P1.86 – P2.6): small modules, compact high-definition screens for museums, showrooms, television studios and control rooms.
- Indoor (P2.6 – P4): balance between resolution and cost for retail, hospitality, event spaces.
- Outdoor (P3.91 – P10): greater robustness, higher brightness, larger modules for outdoor use.
What Pixel Pitch does your project need?
The LEDLEMON engineering team will help you select the perfect Pixel Pitch for your installation based on viewing distance, space size and your quote. Contact us and we will propose the most efficient solution.