What’s an anti-glare screen?

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Anti-glare computer screens reduce reflected light, which can strain the eyes and reduce display quality. Matte finish screens scatter light but may result in a less sharp image, while chemically treated smooth screens offer better color and contrast. Consider the environment when choosing. Aftermarket anti-glare screens are available for both LCD and CRT monitors.

Anti-glare computer screens are designed to reduce the amount of light reflected from the display. Reflected light or glare can be very straining on the eyes and reduce the contrast, colors and sharpness of the display. An anti-glare computer screen makes viewing a display more enjoyable for most people and reduces eye strain.

Most LCD monitors have an anti-glare screen, although there are two types that have different benefits. The most common type is the matte finish display. This anti-glare computer screen works by using the display’s textured matte surface to scatter light, rather than allowing it to reflect off a smooth surface.

The matte-finished anti-glare computer screen also has a disadvantage: it scatters the light escaping from the display, resulting in a slightly less sharp image for the viewer. The matte finish dulls clarity, color and contrast. Compared to a smooth surface screen, the image is slightly blurry, which in itself might be tiring on the eyes.

The other type of anti-glare computer screen uses a chemical coating on a smooth surface to reduce glare. All other things being equal, this type of anti-glare computer screen offers a sharper image with better color and contrast than a matte finish. However, it cannot reduce glare to the same extent as a matte finish.

A good way to choose between anti-glare computer screens is to consider the environment in which you will be using the computer. A chemically treated smooth anti-glare computer screen is probably suitable for home use, where there is mostly ambient light that you can control. In the workplace, where strong overhead lighting is common, it may be less of a chore to cut more glare with a matte finish than it is to maintain a sharper image with a smooth-surface display that will reflect more light.
Some cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors also come with an anti-glare screen. If not, you can purchase aftermarket anti-glare screens that block not only glare, but also harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Radiation is not a problem with LCD screens.
If you want an aftermarket anti-glare computer screen for your LCD monitor, these are also available. Many come in the form of a plastic sheet that adheres to the screen. These are also called anti-glare screens and are designed to enhance contrast and protect the display from scratches.
Aftermarket anti-glare computer screens are available just about anywhere computers are sold. Make sure you choose the right size for your display, and if buying a CRT monitor, look for 100% UV block along with anti-glare properties.




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