A comparison of the most important electronic shelf label technologies
Electronic shelf labels (ESL) play a central role in an increasingly digitalized retail landscape. They ensure efficient price updates, improve the shopping experience and help to reduce sources of error . But not all electronic labels are the same. There are various technologies that differ in terms of how they work and their area of application . This article will give you an overview of the most important variants of ESL tags and their specific advantages.
A comparison of modern display technologies for electronic price tags
E-Ink displays - energy-saving and easy on the eyes
Electronic paper, better known as e-ink, has had a significant impact on the development of digital signs. The functional principle is as simple as it is ingenious: microscopically small capsules filled with black and white pigments are realigned by electrical impulses. The special thing about it is that no further electricity is required to maintain the display after alignment.
- Minimal energy consumption thanks to the display being kept current-free
- Optimum readability even in direct sunlight
- Long battery life of up to 5 years
- Robust technology with proven reliability
LCD displays (Liquid Crystal Display) - dynamic and interactive price information
As an established technology,liquid crystal displays offer some convincing advantages for the retail sector. Unlike e-ink, LCD displays enable vivid color representations and fast image changes. The technology is based on liquid crystals that change their orientation through electrical voltage and thus generate different colors and brightness.
- Brilliant colors for eye-catching displays
- Lower production costs compared to e-ink
- Fast refresh rates for dynamic content
- Flexible design thanks to backlighting
Dot-matrix technology - the future-oriented alternative
Dot-matrix technology is increasingly establishing itself as the latest technology trend in the ESL market. It combines the advantages of classic display technologies with extended display options. In addition to pure price displays, these displays can easily show product descriptions, graphics, QR codes and barcodes.
- Versatile display options for graphics and text
- Future-proof technology thanks to flexible application options
- Integration of QR and barcodes possible
- Dynamic content update in real time
Innovative special technologies: Vivid Shelf Edge & NEWTON series
The Vivid Shelf Edge technology and the NEWTON series represent the latest generation of ESL displays. With integrated LED systems and touchscreen functionalities, they open up completely new possibilities for customer interaction.
- 7-color LED integration for extended display options
- Touchscreen functionality for interactive applications
- Size range from 1.6 to 11.6 inches
- Resource-saving operation despite extended functions
Special electronic shelf labels for special requirements
In addition to the basic display technologies, various specialized Electronic Shelf Label models have been developed for special areas of application. These models combine the basic technologies presented with special features for challenging environmental conditions.
Which electronic shelf label technology is the right one?
The choice of the optimum display technology depends on your individual requirements. While E-Ink impresses with its energy efficiency and readability, LCD and dot matrix score points with their versatility and display options. The new special technologies open up additional possibilities for innovative retail concepts.