Comprehensive Comparison of P1 and P1.5 LED Displays: Technical Specifications, Application Scenarios, and Selection Guide

Posted by

06/06/2025

On 06/06/2025

As digital display technology continues to evolve, fine-pitch LED displays have increasingly become the mainstream choice for high-end applications such as commercial displays, conference systems, and control centers. Compared to traditional LCD or DLP splicing solutions, fine-pitch LED screens offer advantages such as seamless splicing, high brightness, vivid color performance, and long lifespan, delivering a more stunning and refined visual experience—especially in environments where high display precision and content clarity are critical.

Among the wide range of fine-pitch LED products, P1 and P1.5 represent two typical specifications. These two models often become the focus of display selection discussions due to their detailed image performance and different cost structures. The P1 LED display features a higher pixel density and is ideal for scenarios requiring exceptional close-viewing quality, whereas the P1.5 display maintains high definition while offering broader applicability and a more cost-effective solution.

So, what exactly are the differences between P1 and P1.5? And how should you choose the most suitable model based on your specific project needs? This article provides an in-depth comparison across several dimensions, including pixel density, viewing distance, image performance, cost-efficiency, and application adaptability, to help you make an informed and professional decision—achieving the optimal balance between display performance and budget allocation.

Table of Contents

1. What Are P1 and P1.5 LED Displays?

In LED display technology, the “P-value” is one of the core parameters used to evaluate display fineness and determine suitable application scenarios. “P” stands for Pixel Pitch, which refers to the physical distance between the centers of two adjacent LED diodes, measured in millimeters (mm). For example, P1 means a 1mm pixel pitch, while P1.5 means 1.5mm. This value not only determines the pixel density per square meter, but also directly impacts image resolution, optimal viewing distance, cost structure, and module packaging design.

1.1 Impact of Pixel Pitch on Image Quality

The smaller the pixel pitch, the denser the LED diodes per unit area. This results in a higher pixel count, enabling the screen to deliver higher resolution and finer image quality. A P1 display features approximately 1,000,000 pixels per square meter, capable of reproducing highly detailed graphics, video, or dynamic data visualization with almost no visible pixelation. In comparison, a P1.5 display has around 444,444 pixels per square meter—slightly lower but still significantly higher than traditional LCD displays.

1.2 Viewing Distance and Visual Experience

According to the industry-standard formula:

Optimal Viewing Distance = Pixel Pitch × 1,000,

a P1 display offers an ideal viewing range within 1 meter, and can be comfortably viewed at distances as close as 0.5 meters, making it well-suited for high-precision visual tasks and interactive applications. On the other hand, the P1.5 display is better suited for viewing distances between 1.5 to 5 meters, aligning with a broader range of typical commercial display scenarios.

1.3 Requirements for Module Design and Driver ICs

Smaller pixel pitch increases demands on LED package uniformity, thermal management, driver IC performance, and PCB layout precision. P1 displays often integrate high-refresh-rate and high-gray-scale processing chips, coupled with low-brightness high-grayscale technology to support HDR-level dynamic performance. This also raises the bar for color accuracy and image smoothness.

1.4 Challenges in Manufacturing and Maintenance

As pixel pitch decreases, LED components are packed more closely, making the manufacturing process more precise and sensitive to error. Even minor alignment issues can impact uniformity across the display. High-density panels also require enhanced heat dissipation to prevent increased failure rates during extended high-brightness operation. Additionally, maintenance for P1 displays is more complex than for P1.5, as the ultra-small pitch makes single-LED repairs more difficult and demands higher engineering skill levels.

1.5 Technical Comparison Overview

Specification	P1 Display	P1.5 Display
Pixel Pitch	1.0 mm	1.5 mm
Pixel Density	1,000,000 pixels/m²	444,444 pixels/m²
Recommended Viewing Distance	0.5 – 3 meters	1.5 – 5 meters
Screen Size for 4K Resolution	Approx. 2.5 × 1.4 m	Approx. 3.7 × 2.1 m
LED Packaging Options	SMD1010 / COB / MiniLED	SMD1212 / SMD1515
Cost Structure	High	Medium to High

2. Packaging Technologies and Protection Performance

The packaging technology used in an LED display not only determines its visual output and lifespan, but also directly affects its protection rating, ease of maintenance, and application suitability. As P1 and P1.5 displays become increasingly common in the fine-pitch market, expectations for their packaging structures and environmental durability continue to rise.

P1 Displays: COB and Micro LED for High-Integration, High-Protection Solutions

Due to the extremely small pixel pitch of P1-level LED displays, they typically utilize COB (Chip on Board) or the more advanced Micro LED packaging technology. Compared to traditional SMD (Surface-Mounted Device) packaging, COB mounts the RGB chips directly onto the PCB without the need for external brackets. This allows for:

Higher pixel integration density
More uniform light output
Superior resistance to environmental interference

Flip-Chip COB further enhances thermal management capabilities, improving heat dissipation efficiency by approximately 40% compared to conventional mounting. This reduces dead pixel rates and color temperature drift, significantly extending product lifespan.

With color uniformity exceeding 98%, COB technology delivers realistic and pure image reproduction, meeting the demands of high-precision visual applications.

The structural design inherently provides excellent surface integrity and oxidation resistance, achieving IP54 or even higher protection levels—including strong resistance to dust, moisture, and impact.

Thanks to these advantages, P1 displays are widely used in:

Virtual production studios
XR stages
Medical imaging diagnostics
Broadcast control rooms
Command and dispatch centers

They have become representative products of high-integration, professional-grade LED display systems.

P1.5 Displays: SMD-Based, Enhanced with GOB for Economical Protection

By contrast, P1.5 displays primarily use mature SMD packaging technologies, such as SMD1212 and SMD1515. These provide benefits like:

Lower production cost
Stable manufacturing processes
Well-established supply chains

P1.5 displays are a mainstream choice for mid-to-high-end commercial LED applications.

To further enhance surface protection and extend product longevity, some P1.5 models incorporate GOB (Glue on Board) technology. GOB involves sealing the LED module surface with a transparent resin layer, which significantly improves resistance to:

Impact
Water
Dust
Static electricity

Without altering the SMD light-emission structure, GOB delivers COB-like protective performance, effectively improving the pressure and shock resistance of the LED chips.

Compared to COB, GOB solutions offer better maintainability, making them more suitable for projects that require frequent post-installation service.

With a lower overall cost, P1.5 displays are ideal for use in:

Trade shows and exhibitions
Government and corporate conference rooms
Retail displays and digital signage
Education and training environments

Packaging Technology Comparison Overview

Feature	P1 (COB / Micro LED)	P1.5 (SMD + Optional GOB)
Packaging Type	COB, Micro LED	SMD1212, SMD1515 (+ GOB)
Protection Rating	IP54+	IP42 ~ IP50 (up to IP54 with GOB)
Impact Resistance	High	Medium (Enhanced with GOB)
Color Uniformity	>98%	>95%
Cost	High	Medium to Low
Maintainability	Low (requires full module replacement)	High (supports single LED repair)
Application Scenarios	Broadcasting, Medical, Virtual Studios, Control Rooms	Showrooms, Conferences, Education, Retail Chains, Transportation Hubs

P1 and P1.5 displays differ not only in pixel density, but also in the corresponding packaging technologies that define their protection levels and overall product strategies.

P1 displays lean toward fully integrated solutions with high precision, enhanced stability, and top-tier protection.
P1.5 displays focus on cost-effectiveness and deployment flexibility, making them ideal for bulk installations in medium to large-scale commercial projects.

When making a selection, it’s important to evaluate based on technical requirements, protection needs, budget constraints, and long-term maintenance plans specific to your usage environment.

3. Optical Performance Comparison

When selecting an LED display, optical parameters such as brightness, color gamut, and color depth are key factors that determine image quality, visual impact, and color fidelity. Although both P1 and P1.5 fine-pitch LED displays offer high-definition capabilities, they exhibit notable differences in detail rendering and color processing.

3.1 Brightness Performance

Metric	P1 Display	P1.5 Display
Brightness Range	800–1500 cd/m²	600–1200 cd/m²

P1 displays typically use higher-grade LED chips and driver circuitry, enabling a broader brightness range and higher peak brightness output. This makes them well-suited for environments with strong ambient lighting, such as stage performances, indoor storefronts, or large conference halls. The brightness adjustment is also more linear, allowing the display to maintain high contrast without causing overexposure or grayscale loss.

P1.5 displays, on the other hand, offer slightly lower brightness levels. While still adequate for most indoor settings, additional shading or increased brightness may be needed in high-glare environments (e.g., near floor-to-ceiling windows or under intense artificial lighting) to ensure visual clarity.

3.2 Color Gamut Coverage

Metric	P1 Display	P1.5 Display
NTSC Coverage	110% (GaN LED)	92%

P1 displays often adopt gallium nitride (GaN) LED light sources, providing a wider color gamut with NTSC coverage reaching 110% or more. This ensures vivid, true-to-source color reproduction, especially for reds, greens, and blues. Enhanced color fidelity is crucial for applications such as film and broadcast, virtual production, and digital content visualization.

P1.5 displays, which commonly use standard RGB packaging, offer slightly narrower gamut coverage. While sufficient for general-purpose commercial displays and data visualization, their color rendering tends to be softer, making them more comfortable for prolonged viewing.

3.3 Color Depth and Grayscale Handling

Metric	P1 Display	P1.5 Display
Color Depth	16-bit (High Grayscale)	14–16-bit Adjustable

Color depth determines how many colors the display can render simultaneously. P1 models are generally equipped with 16-bit grayscale processing, and when combined with HDR algorithms, they deliver:

Smooth color gradients
Richer image layers
Reduced banding or visual artifacts

This makes them especially suitable for dynamic content like video, photography, or medical imaging.

P1.5 displays may also support 16-bit depth, but are often configured for 14-bit by default, which is sufficient for content types like charts, text, and animations. While not as expressive as P1, P1.5 still meets the requirements of most non-specialist applications.

4. Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation

Power consumption and heat dissipation are critical factors for the long-term stable operation of LED displays—especially in large-scale deployments and 24/7 environments. While P1 and P1.5 displays share similar pixel pitch ranges, differences in packaging structure, circuit layout, and chip driving methods lead to distinct variations in energy efficiency and thermal performance.

4.1 Power Consumption: P1 Is More Energy-Efficient for High-Frequency Usage

Metric	P1 Display (COB Packaging)	P1.5 Display (SMD Packaging)
Average Power	~450W/m²	~520W/m²
Peak Power	600–800W/m² (depending on module & brightness)	700–900W/m²

P1 displays often adopt COB or flip-chip COB integrated packaging, embedding the LED chips directly onto the PCB substrate. This design minimizes energy loss by eliminating intermediate electrodes and bracket structures. At the same brightness level, P1 displays consume less power per square meter—improving energy efficiency by 10–15%.

This makes P1 ideal for long-duration continuous-use scenarios, such as:

Command centers
Control rooms
Airport information displays
Hospital monitoring zones

In such environments, the power-saving advantages of P1 can reduce operating costs and extend system longevity.

In contrast, P1.5 displays, using traditional SMD packaging, involve more components and a more complex circuit layout, resulting in higher driving power requirements. Under high brightness and high refresh rate configurations, power consumption increases significantly and may require stronger heat dissipation systems and redundant power supply design.

4.2 Heat Dissipation: COB Structure Has the Advantage

Structurally, P1 displays benefit from shorter thermal paths between the LED chips and the PCB, which leads to more efficient heat transfer. In addition, the COB surface maintains uniform thermal conductivity, offering a more balanced and stable heat dissipation performance.

Most P1 displays use:

Aluminum-backed PCBs
Full-molded integrated module design
Backplate ventilation channeling

These features help control localized heat buildup and prevent issues like hot spots, color shifts, or dead pixels during prolonged operation.

Although P1.5 displays also feature mature thermal designs—including high-conductivity copper pillars, reinforced module housings, and fan-assisted cooling—their wider component spacing and dispersed heat sources reduce overall efficiency. In high-temperature, high-humidity conditions, additional focus on thermal redundancy and system stability is required.

5. Cost Structure Comparison

When selecting an LED display system, both initial investment and long-term maintenance cost are major concerns for project stakeholders. While P1 and P1.5 displays differ in pixel precision and performance, their underlying cost structures also significantly influence the overall project budget and return on investment (ROI).

5.1 Module Cost Comparison

Cost Item	P1 Display (COB Packaging)	P1.5 Display (SMD Packaging)
Reference Module Price	¥3,000/m²	¥2,000/m²
Installation Structure	High-precision custom frame	Standardized universal frame
Maintenance Approach	Full module replacement	Supports single LED repair
Annual Failure Rate	~0.01%	0.05% – 0.1%

P1 displays utilize advanced COB or Micro LED integrated packaging, with more complex manufacturing processes and higher integration. This results in a higher module price compared to P1.5. However, the design offers:

Fewer electrical connection points
Stronger resistance to interference
Exceptionally low failure rates

These advantages make P1 ideal for mission-critical applications where stability and reliability are non-negotiable.

P1.5 displays, on the other hand, rely on mature SMD packaging with a high degree of standardization. Their lower module cost enables easier mass production and flexible assembly, making them well-suited for mid-to-large-scale projects that require fast deployment.

5.2 Installation & Structural Component Costs

P1 displays require high-precision assembly and are typically paired with custom aluminum die-cast frames or fine-tuning mounting systems to ensure seamless, pixel-to-pixel alignment. These installations avoid issues like light lines or black gaps, which can disrupt the overall visual experience. As a result, installation time and cost are higher.

P1.5 displays, with their wider pixel pitch, are more tolerant of alignment deviations, allowing the use of standardized mounting systems. This reduces installation difficulty, labor costs, and construction time, improving overall efficiency.

5.3 Maintenance and Repair Costs

COB-packaged P1 displays feature a smooth, sealed surface, making them easy to clean and resistant to dust and moisture. However, if a failure occurs, entire modules typically need to be replaced, which can be costly and must be performed by trained technicians.

P1.5 displays, with their modular SMD architecture, support single-pixel (LED) repairs, making post-installation maintenance more affordable and flexible. This is particularly beneficial in large deployments or projects requiring frequent maintenance.

5.4 Failure Rates and Long-Term Reliability

According to industry data:

COB-based P1 displays have an annual failure rate of ~0.01%
SMD-based P1.5 displays range from 0.05% to 0.1% annually

Although P1 displays demand a higher upfront investment, their lower failure rate and less frequent maintenance over time significantly reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This makes P1 ideal for year-round, zero-downtime operations in highly sensitive environments.

6. Typical Application Scenarios Comparison

In real-world projects, different pixel pitches in LED displays are suited to distinctly different use cases. Beyond technical specifications, P1 and P1.5 displays are optimized for unique scenarios based on content type, intended usage, spatial environment, and viewing distance. The following application comparison helps integrators and decision-makers choose the right product based on actual needs.

✅ P1 Display Applications (High Precision & High Reliability)

XR Virtual Production & Film Studios
Used in scenarios that require ultra-high image quality, seamless splicing, and zero-latency synchronization.

P1 displays offer extremely high pixel density and deep color bit support, making them ideal for LED virtual backdrops.
They enable real-time rendering of 3D environments while minimizing moire patterns and grid effects.
Widely adopted in virtual studios, film and television production, and metaverse content creation.

Financial Trading Floors & Data Centers
Where real-time display of dense data visualizations is required.

P1 displays provide high contrast ratios and precise graphical reproduction, supporting 24/7 operation and the visualization of vast market data.

Medical Imaging Review Systems
Where diagnostic precision and accurate color reproduction are critical.

P1 supports detailed rendering of medical images such as CT, MRI, and ultrasound scans with no color deviation or ghosting.
Ideal for digital teaching environments, medical imaging labs, and diagnostic display rooms.

Broadcast Studios
Environments demanding high brightness, color uniformity, and refresh rates to avoid flickering or color shifts under camera.

P1 displays support high frame rates and HDR imaging, ensuring natural and true-to-life visuals for live broadcasts and video production.

✅ P1.5 Display Applications (Cost-Effective & Versatile Commercial Use)

Corporate Conference Rooms & Exhibition Halls
Ideal for presenting slides, charts, promotional videos, and informational content.

P1.5 displays maintain sharp image clarity while offering better cost control, making them well-suited for medium to large meeting spaces.

Retail Digital Signage & Wayfinding Systems
Used for displaying product information, in-store navigation, and interactive advertising.

Perfect for chain stores, brand boutiques, and shopping malls via floor-standing or wall-mounted setups.
Balances display quality with economic practicality.

Stage Backdrops & Event Installations
Designed for performances, corporate events, exhibitions, and temporary setups.

P1.5 offers adequate clarity and smooth motion rendering, suitable for high-brightness, quick-setup/tear-down stage environments.

Commercial Building Information Displays
Installed in elevator lobbies, reception areas, or hallways to display announcements, branding content, or digital advertisements.

Easy to install and maintain, with a sleek design suited for continuous operation and low-maintenance environments.

P1 LED displays are best suited for projects that demand exceptional image fidelity, environmental stability, and professional-grade visualization. They serve as a reliable technical foundation for precise display and interactive visual applications.

Meanwhile, P1.5 LED displays offer a more cost-effective, flexible, and practical solution for high-definition commercial applications. With broad deployment in retail, education, and corporate settings, P1.5 remains a mainstream choice for value-driven LED display projects in today’s market.

7. P1.5 vs. P2: Budget Optimization Recommendations

In real-world deployments, finding the right balance between image quality and budget constraints is a common challenge for both project owners and system integrators. For mid-to-large commercial installations with limited budgets and relatively long viewing distances, P1.5 and P2 LED displays are often the two most frequently compared specifications.

7.1 Human Eye Perception and Viewing Distance Matching

Based on an industry-standard visual perception formula:

Optimal Viewing Distance (meters) ≈ Pixel Pitch (mm) × 3000

P1.5: Optimal within 4.5 meters
P2: Optimal at 6 meters or more

From a human perception standpoint, if the viewing distance exceeds 6 meters, the visible difference in pixel resolution between P1.5 and P2 becomes negligible. In such scenarios, selecting P2 allows for visually comparable output at a significantly lower cost, making it a practical choice for budget-sensitive applications.

7.2 Cost Structure Differences: P2 Offers ~30% Savings

In current market conditions:

P2 modules are 25%–30% cheaper than P1.5 modules.
Due to lower pixel density, P2 displays place fewer demands on driver ICs, power supplies, and thermal structures, leading to a lower total system cost.

For budget-constrained large-format projects—such as exhibitions, mall atrium advertisements, or airport information boards—P2 displays help maintain basic image clarity and smooth playback while significantly shortening ROI cycles.

7.3 Energy Efficiency and Environmental Adaptability: P1.5 Performs Better in High Ambient Light

Although P2 displays generally support higher peak brightness, they are less energy-efficient than P1.5, especially in long-duration operational environments where energy consumption is a key concern.

Thanks to its tighter pixel arrangement and more efficient driving schemes, the P1.5 display consumes 10–15% less power under the same brightness output. This gives it a strong advantage in scenarios such as:

Glass curtain walls / Open atriums: Exposed to direct sunlight and reflections, requiring high brightness with stable performance
Retail storefronts / Hallways: Require extended operating hours and are sensitive to energy consumption

7.4 Selection Recommendation Summary

Project Factor	P1.5	P2
Recommended Viewing Distance	≤ 4.5 meters	≥ 6 meters
Module Price	Mid-to-high	Mid-to-low (approx. 30% cheaper)
Optical Performance	More saturated color, stable brightness	Slightly lower, but sufficient at long range
Power Efficiency	More energy-efficient for long runtimes	Higher energy consumption
Best-Fit Scenarios	High-end commercial, strong lighting, energy-conscious installs	Large-format ads, distant viewing, budget-sensitive deployments

If your project space involves close-range viewing, complex lighting, or places a premium on image fidelity and energy efficiency—such as luxury retail, bank storefronts, or brand experience centers—P1.5 is the ideal choice.

However, if the space is large, the audience is at a distance, and cost control is a priority, P2 offers a practical and budget-friendly alternative that still delivers a satisfactory viewing experience.

8. How to Scientifically Select the Right LED Display?

Choosing the right LED display is not simply a matter of comparing specs or prices. Instead, it involves a systematic decision-making process that balances technical performance, application compatibility, and lifecycle cost. The following three-step selection framework can help users identify the most cost-effective and sustainable option among various product models.

Step 1: Define Core Requirements – Work Backward from the Application

Before selecting a display type, it’s critical to clarify the project’s core use case. The following key questions can serve as a practical checklist:

Does the project require interactive touch functionality?
If the use case involves human-computer interaction—such as smart navigation, exhibition kiosks, or educational demonstrations—you’ll need compatibility with infrared sensors, touch films, radar modules, or other interactive technologies.
Does the environment demand 24/7 operation or high system reliability?
For continuous-use scenarios like traffic control centers or data monitoring hubs, choose a display with low power consumption, low failure rate, and support for redundancy and backup systems.
Is the installation environment challenging (e.g., strong light, vibration, dust)?
The physical environment directly influences packaging technology and protection requirements.
- Glass curtain walls require high-brightness, energy-efficient models.
- Industrial spaces call for dust- and impact-resistant designs.
- High-altitude installations may need pressure- and oxidation-resistant materials.

Step 2: Evaluate Cost-Effectiveness Using Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Don’t assess LED displays solely on initial purchase price—consider long-term maintenance and operating costs. Use the TCO formula below for a comprehensive evaluation:

TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) = (Initial Purchase Cost + Avg. Annual Maintenance × 5 Years) ÷ Display Area

Initial costs include modules, control systems, power supplies, structural supports, and installation.
Maintenance costs cover electricity, repair, upgrades, and labor.
Display area helps normalize the comparison across pixel pitch types by evaluating investment per square meter.

Example: Although P1 displays may have higher upfront costs, they typically offer:

Lower power consumption
Fewer failures
Reduced maintenance frequency

Thus, in long-term operation scenarios, P1 may outperform lower-cost options in terms of overall TCO.

Step 3: Validate Product Performance Through Testing

Even if two vendors offer similar specs, actual performance can vary widely. To ensure the display meets your project requirements, conduct the following key performance tests before purchase:

Grayscale Testing
Evaluate how smoothly the display handles 32 levels of grayscale. Look for visual artifacts like banding, harsh transitions, or loss of detail.
Ghosting & Motion Blur Testing
Play high-speed visuals (e.g., scrolling text, fast-moving video) to assess response time and image trailing. A quality display should show no ghosting or tearing.
Brightness Uniformity Testing
Inspect the screen for inconsistent brightness, dark patches, or color shifts across different zones—especially critical in large-scale tiled displays.

Additional indicators to consider include:

Refresh rate
Contrast ratio
Color consistency
Maturity of calibration systems

These parameters provide a multidimensional view of whether the product can meet your usage intensity and application complexity.

Conclusion

Over the next 3–5 years, P1.5 LED displays are expected to remain the mainstream choice for commercial applications and mid-to-large-scale projects, thanks to their superior cost-performance ratio.
For high-end applications that demand exceptional image quality and ultra-high stability, P1 COB displays offer greater long-term investment value.

Whether you’re focused on performance or working within a budget, leadingledtech.com is here to provide expert guidance and technical support.
Feel free to contact us for detailed product information and pricing on our P1 / P1.5 display solutions.