Why Are COB LED Displays More Expensive Than Other Types of Displays?

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On 03/07/2025

As a new generation of display technology, COB (Chip-on-Board) LED displays have gradually gained popularity in the market due to their exceptional display quality and reliable performance. However, when compared to other types of LED display screens, the price of COB LED displays tends to be higher. So, why is that? Let’s explore the factors behind the cost of COB LED displays.

Table of Contents

1. What is the Cost of a COB LED Display?

When we talk about COB LED displays, their outstanding visual performance and stable functionality immediately come to mind. However, with these advantages comes a higher price tag. So, where do these costs stem from?

1) Research and Development (R&D) Costs

COB displays use advanced packaging technology, which requires significant research, development, and continuous improvement. Think about it: sticking such small LED chips directly onto the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) while ensuring they perform steadily requires substantial effort. As a result, the R&D costs for COB displays are quite high. Additionally, there are costs associated with patented technologies, production process improvements, and product testing and verification.

2) Production Methods and Transformation Costs

COB display production differs from traditional SMD (Surface Mount Device) packaging. It’s like moving to a larger house, where manufacturers need to purchase new equipment, rework production lines, and train workers. These are real financial investments! Moreover, the market share and scale of COB display production are still relatively small, so it’s harder to reduce costs through mass production.

3) Complexity of Packaging Technology

The packaging technology used in COB displays is quite intricate. It involves accurately mounting LED chips onto the PCB and protecting them from external environmental factors. This requires precision and high-quality materials. If the craftsmanship or materials are subpar, the display quality will suffer, which makes the complexity of the packaging process a major contributor to the higher cost of COB displays.

4) Other Cost Factors

In addition to the above, several other factors, such as raw material costs, market demand, and brand premiums, contribute to the price of COB displays. For instance, if the cost of raw materials like LED chips, packaging materials, and PCBs increases, the price of the display also rises. Additionally, with strong market demand and limited supply, prices tend to stay high. Well-known brands with guaranteed quality and customer service also contribute to higher pricing.

5) Cost Trends

However, there’s good news on the horizon. As technology advances and production processes are optimized, the cost of COB LED displays is expected to decrease over time. Much like any craft, as manufacturers gain expertise and improve efficiency, production becomes more cost-effective. Therefore, as the industry expands and competition increases, the price of COB displays will likely become more affordable.

2. Product Performance and Advantages of COB LED Displays

COB LED displays are a breath of fresh air in the display industry, offering a combination of performance and durability. Let’s dive into some of its key features.

1) Display Quality: Simply Stunning!

Color Uniformity: COB displays offer remarkable color uniformity. Since the LED chip is directly attached to the PCB, the color consistency across the screen is superb, creating a seamless and visually pleasing experience.
High Contrast: The contrast ratio of COB displays is exceptional, ensuring clear visuals in both bright daylight and dark environments. This makes them suitable for all lighting conditions.
Protection Performance: COB displays feature a fully enclosed design, making them resistant to dust and water splashes. This makes them ideal for use in harsh environments, such as deserts or rainy forests.

2) Durability and Longevity: Built to Last!

Sturdy Packaging Structure: The COB display’s robust packaging design protects the LED chips from damage, ensuring stable performance even in rough or vibrating conditions.
Environmental Adaptability: COB displays excel in different environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity. This adaptability ensures that the displays perform reliably in various environments.
Low Rate of Dead Lights: The rate of dead lights in COB displays is incredibly low, meaning that the screen will maintain its functionality over a long period without issues.

3) Wide Viewing Angle: Clarity from Every Angle!

Wide Viewing Angle: With an almost 180-degree viewing angle, COB displays provide clear visibility from various positions, whether standing in front, to the side, or even behind the screen.
Perfect for Large Displays and Interactive Applications: Their wide viewing angle makes COB displays ideal for public spaces such as shopping malls, exhibition halls, and conference centers. It also works excellently for interactive displays, allowing users to touch and swipe on the screen to change content.

4) Additional Advantages

Efficient Heat Dissipation: COB displays feature excellent heat dissipation, ensuring that the display remains cool even with prolonged use.
Lightweight and Portable: COB displays are lightweight and compact, making them easy to install and maintain. They are perfect for applications that require frequent relocation or replacement.
Seamless Splicing: COB displays support seamless splicing, enabling the creation of massive display walls by connecting multiple screens. This feature provides an immersive viewing experience for various applications.

3. Market Demand and Supply of COB LED Displays

The market for COB LED displays is currently experiencing high demand. Let’s take a closer look at the supply and demand situation.

1) Limited Market Supply

The number of manufacturers capable of producing COB displays is limited. Producing high-quality COB displays requires specialized technical skills and significant production experience. As a result, the supply is relatively limited, and, as the old adage goes, when supply is limited, prices rise.

2) Strong Market Demand

The demand for COB displays is exceedingly high, especially in high-end commercial applications such as conference centers, performing arts venues, and other premium environments. As a result, demand continues to outpace supply, pushing prices higher.

4. Other Cost Factors of COB LED Displays

COB displays have many factors influencing their price beyond the production process, including raw material costs and brand premiums.

1) Raw Material Costs

The quality of the raw materials used in COB displays plays a significant role in the final price. Key materials include:

LED Chips: The quality of LED chips affects the brightness and lifespan of the display. Any increase in chip prices directly raises the cost of the display.
Packaging Materials: These materials protect the LED chips and ensure their longevity. As material costs rise, so does the price of the display.
PCBs: The quality of the PCB influences the display’s reliability. If the cost of PCBs rises, the price of the display will also increase.

2) Brand and Service Value

In addition to product quality, brand reputation and after-sales service add value to COB displays. High-end brands often provide superior customer support and product guarantees, which can increase the price of the display.

Conclusion

In summary, the high price of COB LED displays is influenced by various factors, including advanced technology, production processes, excellent product performance, and strong market demand. Raw material costs and brand premiums also play significant roles in the price. As technology improves and market competition increases, the price of COB displays is expected to become more affordable over time.