Are TFT screens good for your eyes?

At a time when devices such as smartphones, tablets, and monitors are becoming more and more popular, TFT (thin-film transistor) screens, as the mainstream display technology, have attracted much attention for their impact on the eyes. Supporters believe that advanced TFT screens can reduce visual fatigue, while opponents worry about the hidden dangers of blue light and flicker. Is the TFT screen "eye-protecting"? An objective analysis is needed from the perspective of technical principles and scientific research.

Basic characteristics of TFT screens: Eye-protecting potential from a technical perspective

TFT screens control the deflection of liquid crystal molecules through a thin-film transistor array to achieve precise pixel color and brightness adjustment. Compared with traditional LCD screens, modern TFT technology has been significantly upgraded in backlight sources and drive circuits: DC dimming technology replaces PWM low frequency dimming to avoid screen flickering irritating the eyes; the local dimming function reduces the glare problem caused by direct strong light by independently adjusting the backlight partitions. In addition, some high-end TFT screens are equipped with low-blue light backlights, which reduce the high-energy harmful blue light in the 415-455nm band by more than 30% by adjusting the spectral distribution, alleviating the risk of retinal damage to a certain extent.

Key factors affecting eye protection

The impact of the screen on the eyes is not determined by the type of technology alone, but the result of the combined effect of multiple parameters. In terms of refresh rate, TFT screens above 60Hz can reduce screen smearing and reduce eye tracking fatigue; screens with too high color gamut coverage (such as wide color gamut OLED) may cause color oversaturation and increase visual burden if they are not calibrated. In addition, the brightness uniformity of the screen is as important as the viewing angle. Poor-quality TFT screens can easily cause eye muscle tension due to uneven brightness, and the narrow viewing angle design can cause color cast, forcing the eyes to continuously adjust.

Scientific research and authoritative advice

Many medical studies have shown that screen usage time and eye habits are the main causes of visual fatigue. The American Academy of Ophthalmology （AAO） pointed out that regardless of the type of screen, following the "20-20-20" principle （looking at a scene 20 feet away for 20seconds every 20 minutes） can effectively relieve fatigue. Regarding the blue light controversy of TFT screens, a report released by the European Commission in 2023 showed that the blue light radiation of ordinary TFT screens is far lower than the international safety standard （IEC 62471）. Only when used for a long time, at close range and without ambient light assistance, may the risk of macular degeneration be increased.

Eye protection strategy for purchase and use

If you pursue eye protection effects, it is recommended to give priority to TFT screen devices that have passed the Rhine low blue light certification and have DC dimming function. At the same time, adjusting the screen settings can further reduce damage: adjust the color temperature to warm tones to reduce blue light output, enable "night mode" to reduce screen brightness, and cooperate with ambient lighting to avoid excessive light and dark contrast. In addition, wearing anti-blue light glasses and maintaining a viewing distance of more than 40cm are also effective measures to protect the eyes.

The TFT screen itself is not the "culprit of eye damage", and its eye protection ability needs to be comprehensively evaluated in combination with technical parameters and usage habits. With the popularization of new TFT technologies such as Mini-LED and quantum dots, the screen will bring a more friendly visual experience while improving picture quality. Consumers should view the publicity rationally when purchasing, focus on scientific use of eyesight, and bring out the true value of TFT screens.