What is Pixel Pitch in LED Display?

Pixel pitch refers to the distance (in millimeters) between the centers of two adjacent pixels on an LED display. Since each pixel is composed of an individual LED, the pixel pitch effectively measures the gap between two LEDs.

For example:

• P5 (or PH5) denotes a pixel pitch of 5mm, meaning the center-to-center spacing between two pixels is 5mm horizontally and vertically.

Key Implications of Pixel Pitch:

• Smaller pitch = Higher pixel density – Reduces the gap between pixels, resulting in sharper images and higher resolution.
• Larger pitch = Lower resolution – Suitable for viewing from greater distances (e.g., outdoor billboards).

Pixel pitch is a critical factor in determining optimal viewing distance and image quality for LED screens.

The Critical Importance of Pixel Pitch in LED Displays

Pixel pitch fundamentally determines an LED display's performance and application suitability through three key relationships:

1. Resolution and Physical Dimensions

Pixel pitch creates an inverse relationship between resolution and screen size:

Same Resolution: Smaller pitch = more compact LED screen

Example: 1920×1080 (Full HD 1080p) resolution LED screen

• P2 LED screen: 3.84m × 2.16m
• P3 LED screen: 5.76m × 3.24m

Same Size: Smaller pitch = higher resolution LED screen

Example: 1.5m × 1.5m LED screen

• P2 LED screen: 750×750 pixels
• P3 LED screen: 500×500 pixels

2. Optimal Viewing Experience

Unlike consumer TVs, LED displays have strict viewing distance requirements:

Minimum Viewing Distance ≈ Pixel Pitch (mm) × 1000

• (e.g., P3 LED screen requires ≥3m viewing distance)

3. Image Quality Parameters

Smaller pitch provides:

• Higher pixel density
• Sharper image quality
• Closer viewing capability

Practical Implications

• Indoor Applications (P1.2-P3): Prioritize smaller pitches for close viewing
• Outdoor Displays (P4-P10): Use larger pitches for cost-effective visibility at distance

This technical relationship makes pixel pitch selection the most crucial decision in LED display specification.

pixel pitch and close viewing distance

3 Key Considerations for LED Display Selection

1. Optimal Viewing Distance Formula

For optimal viewing comfort, the physical separation between audience and LED screen should be proportional to the LED display's pixel pitch.

• Calculation: Minimum Viewing Distance ≈ Pixel Pitch (mm) × 1000

Please check below table for each pixel pitch.

2. Resolution-Pitch-Size

Match pixel pitch to content source:

• 4K content: ≤P2 recommended
• HD content: P2.5-P4 acceptable
• Simple graphics: P4+ sufficient

Size-to-resolution trade off:

• Higher resolution ↔ Smaller pitch ↔ Higher cost

Please click the below "Button" and check the blog for "LED Screen Sizes in 720P, 1080P, 2K and 4K".

3. Total Project Budgeting

Comprehensive cost factors:

• Display panels (50-70% of budget)
• Control system (15-20%)
• Installation/structures (15-25%)
• Contingency (5%): Installation variables

Decision Framework:

1. Determine primary viewing distance
2. Identify content resolution needs
3. Allocate budget across all project components
4. Select pitch that balances these factors

Expert Tip: Always specify 10-15% higher resolution than current needs to future-proof your investment, especially for long-term installations.

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