By MK-LED · Updated
In short
Indoor LED displays are designed for controlled lighting and close viewing, with finer pixel pitches and lower brightness. Outdoor LED displays are built to stay visible in daylight and to withstand weather, so they use much higher brightness, weather-protected cabinets and structures engineered for wind and the site.
Brightness
Brightness is measured in nits (candela per square metre). As a typical industry range, indoor displays operate at roughly 500–1,500 nits, while outdoor displays facing direct sunlight are commonly specified at several thousand nits. The right value depends on the site, and should be confirmed against the product datasheet.
Outdoor displays should also dim automatically at night, both for comfort and to save energy.
Weather protection
Outdoor cabinets are sealed against dust and water. Protection is expressed as an IP (ingress protection) rating; the rating of a specific product should be taken from its datasheet. The installation also matters: drainage, ventilation and cable entry are planned for the site.
Pixel pitch
Indoor audiences are usually closer, so indoor displays tend to use finer pitches such as P2–P3. Outdoor audiences are usually further away, so outdoor displays commonly use larger pitches, which also makes large screens more economical.
Structure and installation
Indoor walls are typically mounted on walls or frames within a building. Outdoor displays often need free-standing or façade structures designed for the display weight and wind, plus safe access for maintenance.
Frequently asked questions
Can an indoor LED display be used outdoors?
No. Indoor displays are not bright enough for daylight and are not protected against water and dust. Use an outdoor-rated display for any exposed location.