Nits is the standard unit of measurement for screen brightness or luminance. It quantifies the amount of light a display emits over a specific area.
Understanding Nits
Technically, one nit is equivalent to one candela per square meter (cd/m²). The candela is the standard unit of luminous intensity in the International System of Units (SI). Therefore, a higher nit value indicates a brighter screen.
Typical Nit Values and Usage Scenarios
The appropriate nit level depends largely on the viewing environment:
- Indoor Use (e.g., office, home): A display with 200 to 400 nits is generally sufficient. Monitors within this range, such as those between 100 to 300 nits, can provide adequate brightness for comfortable viewing without causing excessive eye strain.
- Outdoor Covered Use (e.g., shaded patio): For environments with more ambient light but not direct sunlight, a range of 400 to 700 nits is often recommended.
- Direct Sunlight Use (e.g., outdoor mobile devices): Displays intended for use in bright, direct sunlight typically require 1000 nits or more to maintain visibility.
Impact of Nits
Higher screen brightness (more nits) can enhance the visibility of colors and details, especially in well-lit conditions. However, excessively high brightness in dim environments can lead to eye strain. Conversely, insufficient nits can make a screen appear dim and difficult to read, particularly in bright surroundings.
Choosing a display with an appropriate nit rating for its intended use ensures optimal viewing comfort and image clarity.
