LED monitors to gain popularity in 2010

LCD computer monitors that employ the LED backlighting technology, currently only enjoyed by consumers in high-end HDTVs, are likely to take a significant proportion of the monitor market by the third quarter of 2010 according to projections by an independent research firm.

DisplaySearch believes that the energy saving properties of LED backlit monitors will see their popularity grow as consumers become ever more aware of the benefits. The slim design afforded by the technology will no doubt play a part in its market adoption.

The firm recognises that there are already established brands and technologies within the desktop monitor marketplace, but believes that most manufacturers are relying on LED displays to inject some life back into the industry and to reignite consumer interest.

In 2009 the LED desktop monitor only managed to secure a meagre 1.4 per cent of the market, but most manufacturers are hoping that by offering the technology in mainstream widescreen sizes, including 19, 20 and 24 inch displays, they will be able to garner public interest and increase sales.

DisplaySearch thus projects that LED displays will account for up to 22 per cent of the market by the third quarter of 2010.

In 2009 it was Taiwanese manufacturer InnoLux that accounted for the majority of LED desktop monitor sales with a 34.4 per cent share in the total number of units shipped. The other major players in the market include LG, Samsung and fellow Taiwanese firms AU Optronics Corp and Chi Mei Optoelectronics.

The Display Search report suggests that larger, high-end LED displays for use with desktop PCs will hit the market, with 27 inch and potentially 30 inch displays enticing those with deep pockets. 26 inch HDTVs utilising LED backlighting technology are also expected to become available from early 2010.