Why can't you read a display behind shop window glass in daylight? We explain how to choose brightness for in-store, shop window and outdoor displays and the other specifications to keep in mind.
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Display brightness is measured in nits (cd/m²). The same content that looks clear on a 350-nit display in an enclosed office can become almost unreadable on the same display in a sunlit shop window. The right brightness is chosen according to the light in the display's environment.
| Environment | Brightness (approx.) | Samsung examples |
|---|---|---|
| Offices, branch interiors, meeting rooms | 350–500 nits | QBC (350 nits), QMC (500 nits) |
| Bright store interiors, daylit lobbies | 700 nits | QHC (700 nits) |
| Behind-glass shop windows | 3,000–4,000 nits | OM55B (3,000 nits), OMN-S and OM75A (4,000 nits) |
| Outdoors | 2,500 nits and above | OH85F (2,500 nits), OHDX (3,500 nits) |
Values are taken from the manufacturer's technical specifications. The table is a starting point; the direction of the display, hours of sun exposure and the reflective properties of the glass can change the final choice.
A display that is brighter than necessary indoors tires viewers' eyes and wastes energy. On professional displays, sensors that adjust brightness to ambient light and scheduling settings help strike this balance.
For large surfaces and façades viewed from a distance, LED displays may be more suitable. For this decision, see our pixel pitch guide and our LED display page.
Brightness of 350–700 nits indoors, 3,000 nits and above behind shop window glass, and 2,500 nits and above outdoors should be evaluated together with 24/7 operation, temperature resistance and protection rating. We can measure the lighting conditions of your space with an on-site survey and determine the most suitable display together.
We compared the professional displays of four major brands by operating system, software platform, product lines and use cases. The short answer: the right choice starts with identifying the series that suits your space, and then the brand.
How many locations, how many displays, what will be shown? Share what you know and we'll get back to you for a site survey and quote.
