The massively oversimplified explanation is that more reflective coatings give a better image quality as long as you don't have reflections. Matte coatings dull the colours of the image a bit and make it a bit less sharp.
this post was submitted on 10 Jan 2026
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reflective coatings give a better image quality
Respectfully disagree.
It is the technical value for "contrast" that is better, but I would never go as far as calling that "image quality".
Matte coatings interfere with more than just contrast, they often look a little more blurry as well in my experience. But yeah, the "massively oversimplified" was there for a reason 😆.
That makes sense. If I could get a matt one I would as the colors and how vibrant they are, are not really a priority for me. But this makes a ton of sense thank you
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Because stupid consumers have accepted it
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Because the spec for "contrast" can reach very much higher numbers when measured in ideal conditions on such a "bathroom mirror" display than on a matte one. Ideal conditions include a totally dark room with no ambient light whatsoever, and the measurement is taken exactly vertically to the screen's surface
Of course, matte displays actually look better in real world conditions.
TVs are often designed to impress you when they're on display at the store, leading to your purchase. It should come as no surprise that this is completely different from your home viewing environment.
Glossy screens, vivid and oversaturated colors, etc are a perfect example of this.
They exist, you just did not buy one of those. Theoretically (so in a black room) the clear screen can look better/sharper.