Does Panel Type Matter for LCD Monitors? A Study Examining the Effects of S-IPS, S-PVA, and TN Panels in Video Gaming and Movie Viewing

As computer-based devices become the primary media via which users view movies and play interactive games, display technologies (e.g., LCD monitors) have focused increasingly on quality of video fidelity, with much debate surrounding the relative efficacy of different panel types of LCD monitors. A 3 (S-IPS panel vs. S-PVA panel vs. TN panel) x 2 (game vs. movie) between-subjects experiment was conducted to examine the effects of LCD panel type in facilitating regular viewing as well as enhanced interactive TV experiences. Data from the experiment showed that LCD panel and stimulus type as well as computer literacy were important factors affecting users’ viewing and interaction experiences. Limitations and implications for theory and ongoing research are discussed.