What do LCD modes mean: reflective, transmissive, transflective ?

LCD modes are mainly divided into reflective, transmissive and transflective modes, and each mode has its specific working principle and application scenario. The following is a detailed explanation of these three modes:

Reflective LCD:

Reflective LCD refers to an LCD with a reflective bottom polarizer, and only the light from the front of the LCD can shine on the LCD.

The display content relies on external light to illuminate, so this type of LCD does not require a backlight.

It is mostly used in environments with strong light, such as outdoor places with plenty of sunshine.

Advantages: Low power consumption because no backlight is required; the display effect is good in a well-lit environment.

Disadvantages: The display effect is not good in a dark environment because it relies on an external light source.

Transmissive LCD:

Transmissive LCD refers to an LCD with a transmissive bottom polarizer.

The front and rear polarizers of a transmissive LCD are transparent, and most of the backlight can reach the human eye through the front and rear polarizers and the liquid crystal glass to achieve display.

This type of LCD is suitable for use in darker environments, such as indoors or at night.

Advantages: The display effect is clear in a dark environment; the brightness is adjustable, suitable for different environmental requirements.

Disadvantages: Relatively high power consumption because a backlight is required; long-term use may cause aging of the backlight module.

Transflective LCD (semi-transmissive):

Transflective LCD is a combination of reflective LCD and transmissive LCD, with both backlight and polarizer with certain reflective ability.

The front light can pass through the LCD, and the bottom light can also pass through the LCD.

Generally suitable for working environments with weak external light, such as indoor places near windows or cloudy environments.

Advantages: Combining the advantages of reflective and transmissive, it can maintain good display effects in different light environments; moderate power consumption.

Disadvantages: Compared with pure reflective or pure transmissive LCD, the structure is more complex; the cost may be higher.

In summary, reflective, transmissive and transflective LCDs each have their own characteristics and application scenarios. When choosing an LCD mode, you need to make comprehensive considerations based on actual needs and working environment.

Reflective displays product links for reference:
https://www.youritech.com/products/reflective-mip-displays/

Transflective displays product links for reference:
https://www.youritech.com/products/transflective-displays/

Transmissive displays product links for reference:
https://www.youritech.com/products/tft-displays/

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