LED screens are everywhere. They dominate our cities, our events, and increasingly, our homes. From massive outdoor billboards to high-end home theatre systems, LED technology has transformed how we display information and entertainment.
In South Africa, the market for LED screens has grown rapidly. Prices have come down as technology has improved, making LED screens accessible to businesses, churches, schools, and even individuals. But navigating the price landscape can be confusing. There are different types, resolutions, sizes, and applications, all affecting the final cost.
This guide covers everything you need to know about LED screen prices in South Africa for 2026. We break down the different types, sizes, and price ranges, and help you choose the right screen for your needs.
LED Screen Prices In South Africa: Complete Guide
What Is An LED Screen?
An LED screen is a flat panel display that uses light-emitting diodes as pixels. Unlike LCD screens that require backlighting, LED screens emit their own light. This allows for deeper blacks, higher brightness, and better energy efficiency.
LED screens come in two main types:
Traditional LED Displays: Used for large outdoor and indoor signage, events, and stadiums. These are modular and can be built to any size.
LED TVs and Monitors: Used for home and office viewing. These are consumer electronics with fixed sizes.
This guide covers both categories, focusing on prices for LED displays used in commercial and professional settings, as well as LED TVs for home use.
Quick Reference: LED Screen Price Ranges (2026)
| Type | Size / Spec | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small LED TV | 32 – 43 inches | R3,000 – R8,000 | Bedrooms, kitchens |
| Medium LED TV | 50 – 65 inches | R8,000 – R25,000 | Living rooms |
| Large LED TV | 70 – 85 inches | R25,000 – R80,000 | Home theatres |
| Ultra-Large TV | 86 – 98 inches | R80,000 – R250,000 | Luxury homes, boardrooms |
| Indoor LED Panel (P2.5) | Per square metre | R12,000 – R18,000 | Indoor displays, retail |
| Indoor LED Panel (P3.9) | Per square metre | R9,000 – R14,000 | Events, stages |
| Outdoor LED Panel (P5) | Per square metre | R14,000 – R22,000 | Outdoor signage |
| Outdoor LED Panel (P8) | Per square metre | R10,000 – R16,000 | Large billboards |
| Rental LED Panels | Per sqm per day | R500 – R1,500 | Events, exhibitions |
| Transparent LED | Per square metre | R25,000 – R45,000 | Storefronts, architecture |
| Flexible LED | Per square metre | R18,000 – R30,000 | Curved installations |
Note: Prices are estimates for 2026 and include VAT where applicable. Actual costs vary depending on brand, specifications, installation, and supplier.
Factors Affecting LED Screen Prices
Pixel Pitch (P):
Pixel pitch is the distance between pixels, measured in millimetres. A smaller number means higher resolution and a closer viewing distance.
P2.5: 2.5mm pitch, high resolution, for close viewing.
P3.9: 3.9mm pitch, medium resolution, for medium distances.
P5: 5mm pitch, lower resolution, for outdoor viewing.
P8: 8mm pitch, low resolution, for large billboards viewed from far away.
Smaller pixel pitch costs more because there are more LEDs per square metre.
Size:
Larger screens cost more. LED displays are priced per square metre, so total cost is area multiplied by price per square metre.
Indoor vs. Outdoor:
Outdoor screens require higher brightness to compete with sunlight. They also need weatherproofing. This makes them more expensive than indoor screens.
Resolution:
Higher resolution screens require more LEDs and more processing power. They cost more.
Brand:
Well-known brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony command premium prices.
Chinese brands like Absen, Unilumin, and Leyard offer competitive pricing.
Local suppliers may offer good value with support.
Application:
Rental panels are designed for frequent assembly and disassembly. They are more robust and cost more.
Permanent installations can use lighter, less expensive panels.
Cabinet Material:
Die-cast aluminium cabinets are lighter and more durable but cost more.
Steel cabinets are heavier and cheaper.
Processing and Control:
The video processor and sending card are additional costs. High-end processors with advanced features cost more.
Installation:
Professional installation adds to the total cost. Complex installations require structural work and cabling.
Type 1: LED TVs For Home And Office
These are consumer electronics, available at most electronics retailers. They come in standard sizes with fixed specifications.
Small LED TVs (32 to 43 inches)
Price Range: R3,000 to R8,000
Resolution: HD (1366×768) or Full HD (1920×1080)
Typical Brands: Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Skyworth
Best For: Bedrooms, kitchens, small spaces
These are entry-level TVs. They are perfect for secondary rooms or budget-conscious buyers. Smart features are common even at this level.
Medium LED TVs (50 to 65 inches)
Price Range: R8,000 to R25,000
Resolution: 4K Ultra HD (3840×2160)
Typical Brands: Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, TCL
Best For: Living rooms, main family viewing
This is the most popular size range. Prices vary based on picture quality, smart features, and brand. Look for features like HDR, high refresh rates, and good sound.
Large LED TVs (70 to 85 inches)
Price Range: R25,000 to R80,000
Resolution: 4K Ultra HD or 8K
Typical Brands: Samsung, LG, Sony
Best For: Large living rooms, home theatres
At this size, 4K resolution is essential. 8K models are available but very expensive. These TVs often include premium features like OLED or QLED technology, which enhance picture quality.
Ultra-Large LED TVs (86 to 98 inches)
Price Range: R80,000 to R250,000
Resolution: 4K or 8K
Typical Brands: Samsung, LG, Sony
Best For: Luxury homes, boardrooms, commercial installations
These are massive TVs, requiring significant space and often professional installation. They deliver an immersive experience but come at a premium price.
Type 2: Indoor LED Display Panels
These are modular panels used to create large indoor displays. They are common in shopping malls, airports, corporate lobbies, and churches. They are not TVs; they are professional display systems.
Indoor LED Panel P2.5
Pixel Pitch: 2.5mm
Price Per Square Metre: R12,000 to R18,000
Best Viewing Distance: 2.5 metres and beyond
Best For: Indoor displays viewed from close range, retail, corporate lobbies
P2.5 offers good resolution for indoor use. It is suitable for displaying detailed content like text and graphics. It is more expensive than larger pitches but provides a better viewing experience.
Indoor LED Panel P3.9
Pixel Pitch: 3.9mm
Price Per Square Metre: R9,000 to R14,000
Best Viewing Distance: 4 metres and beyond
Best For: Events, stages, indoor signage
P3.9 is the most common pitch for rental and staging applications. It offers a good balance between cost and resolution. It is widely used for concerts, conferences, and exhibitions.
Indoor LED Panel P1.9 (Fine Pitch)
Pixel Pitch: 1.9mm
Price Per Square Metre: R25,000 to R40,000
Best Viewing Distance: 2 metres and beyond
Best For: High-end retail, control rooms, luxury installations
Fine pitch LED offers near-retina quality. It is used where viewers will be very close to the screen. It is significantly more expensive but delivers exceptional image quality.
Type 3: Outdoor LED Display Panels
Outdoor panels are designed to be bright enough for daylight viewing and weatherproof to withstand rain, dust, and temperature extremes.
Outdoor LED Panel P5
Pixel Pitch: 5mm
Price Per Square Metre: R14,000 to R22,000
Best Viewing Distance: 5 metres and beyond
Best For: Outdoor signage, building wraps, digital billboards
P5 is a common pitch for outdoor displays that will be viewed from a moderate distance. It offers good brightness and durability.
Outdoor LED Panel P8
Pixel Pitch: 8mm
Price Per Square Metre: R10,000 to R16,000
Best Viewing Distance: 8 metres and beyond
Best For: Large billboards viewed from far away, stadium screens
P8 is lower resolution but much more affordable. It is ideal for large displays where viewers will be at a distance. The lower pixel density keeps costs down.
Outdoor LED Panel P10
Pixel Pitch: 10mm
Price Per Square Metre: R8,000 to R12,000
Best Viewing Distance: 10 metres and beyond
Best For: Very large billboards, highway signage
P10 is the lowest resolution commonly used. It is for applications where the screen is massive and viewed from far away. It offers the lowest cost per square metre.
Type 4: Specialised LED Screens
These screens are designed for specific applications and come with premium price tags.
Transparent LED Screens
Price Per Square Metre: R25,000 to R45,000
Best For: Storefront windows, architectural installations
Transparent LED allows light to pass through the screen. It is used in shop windows where you want to display content while still seeing inside. The effect is striking but expensive.
Flexible LED Screens
Price Per Square Metre: R18,000 to R30,000
Best For: Curved installations, creative shapes
Flexible LED panels can be bent to form curves and unique shapes. They are used for creative installations where a flat screen will not work.
Rental LED Panels
Price Per Square Metre Per Day: R500 to R1,500
Best For: Events, exhibitions, temporary installations
Renting is a cost-effective option for short-term use. Rental panels are designed for quick assembly and disassembly. They are robust and come with flight cases for transport.
Quick Reference: LED Screen Price Comparison (2026)
| Type | Pitch | Price Per Sqm | Best Viewing Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor P1.9 | 1.9 mm | R25,000 – R40,000 | 2 m+ |
| Indoor P2.5 | 2.5 mm | R12,000 – R18,000 | 2.5 m+ |
| Indoor P3.9 | 3.9 mm | R9,000 – R14,000 | 4 m+ |
| Outdoor P5 | 5 mm | R14,000 – R22,000 | 5 m+ |
| Outdoor P8 | 8 mm | R10,000 – R16,000 | 8 m+ |
| Outdoor P10 | 10 mm | R8,000 – R12,000 | 10 m+ |
| Transparent | Various | R25,000 – R45,000 | Depends |
| Flexible | Various | R18,000 – R30,000 | Depends |
Note: Prices are estimates for 2026 and include VAT where applicable. Actual costs vary depending on supplier, installation, and customization.
Where To Buy LED Screens In South Africa
LED TV Retailers:
Takealot: Wide range of LED TVs at competitive prices.
Game and Makro: Good for mainstream brands.
Hi-Fi Corp: Budget-friendly options.
Specialist AV stores: For high-end models.
LED Display Panel Suppliers:
Absen South Africa: Leading supplier of professional LED displays.
Unilumin: Another major brand with local presence.
Leyard: High-end LED displays.
Local integrators: Companies that design and install custom LED solutions.
Online:
Alibaba: For direct sourcing from China. Requires careful vetting.
Specialised AV websites: Some offer online quotes and sales.
Rental Companies:
AV rental companies offer LED panels for hire. This is a good way to test before buying.
Choosing The Right LED Screen
Step 1: Determine Your Application
Where will the screen be used? Indoors or outdoors?
How far will viewers be from the screen?
What content will you display? Text, video, graphics?
Step 2: Calculate Required Size
Measure the available space.
Consider viewing distance.
Use online calculators to determine optimal size.
Step 3: Select Pixel Pitch
For close viewing, choose a smaller pitch.
For distant viewing, larger pitch is acceptable and more affordable.
Balance budget and resolution requirements.
Step 4: Consider Brightness
Indoor screens need 800 to 1,500 nits.
Outdoor screens need 4,000 to 6,000 nits for daylight visibility.
Step 5: Set Your Budget
Include installation costs.
Include processing and control equipment.
Include cabling and structural work.
Step 6: Get Multiple Quotes
Contact at least three suppliers.
Ask for references.
Visit installations if possible.
Additional Costs To Consider
Installation:
Professional installation is essential for large displays. Costs vary by complexity.
Structural Work:
Large screens may require reinforced walls or custom supports.
Cabling and Power:
Long cable runs add cost. Ensure adequate power supply.
Processor and Controller:
The video processor is a separate cost. High-end processors with multiple inputs and advanced features cost more.
Content Creation:
You may need content designed specifically for your screen.
Maintenance:
LED screens require occasional maintenance. Panels can fail and need replacement.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
What is the best LED screen brand in South Africa?
For TVs, Samsung, LG, and Sony are top brands. For professional displays, Absen, Unilumin, and Leyard are well-regarded. Local suppliers also offer good options.
How much does a large LED screen cost?
A 100-inch LED TV costs R150,000 to R250,000. A custom LED display of the same size using panels may cost R200,000 to R400,000 depending on resolution.
What is pixel pitch and why does it matter?
Pixel pitch is the distance between pixels. Smaller pitch means higher resolution and better image quality at close range. Larger pitch is for distant viewing.
Can I use an indoor LED screen outdoors?
No. Indoor screens are not weatherproof and are not bright enough for daylight. Outdoor screens are specifically designed for these conditions.
How long do LED screens last?
LED screens have a long lifespan, typically 50,000 to 100,000 hours. That is 5 to 10 years of continuous use. Brightness gradually decreases over time.
Do LED screens consume a lot of electricity?
Modern LED screens are relatively efficient. A large display will consume power, but less than older technologies. Outdoor screens need more power for brightness.
Can I repair a single LED panel?
Yes. Modular LED displays allow individual panels to be replaced. This is a key advantage over large single-piece screens.
What is the difference between LED and OLED?
OLED uses organic compounds that emit light. It offers perfect blacks and excellent contrast. LED uses inorganic LEDs. OLED is generally more expensive.
Do I need a special processor for a large LED display?
Yes. Large displays require a video processor to manage the signal and send it to the panels. The processor is an additional cost.
Can I rent an LED screen for an event?
Yes. Many AV rental companies offer LED panels for hire. Rental costs per square metre per day typically range from R500 to R1,500.
Summary: Which LED Screen Should You Buy?
Choose an LED TV if:
You need a screen for home or office viewing.
You want a simple, plug-and-play solution.
You need a standard size.
Choose indoor LED panels if:
You need a very large display.
You want a custom size and shape.
You need high brightness for commercial environments.
Choose outdoor LED panels if:
You need a display visible in daylight.
You need weather resistance.
You are creating a billboard or building wrap.
Choose fine pitch LED if:
Viewers will be very close to the screen.
You need near-retina quality.
Budget is less of a concern.
Choose transparent LED if:
You want a display for a shop window.
You need to see through the screen.
You are creating an architectural feature.
Choose rental if:
You need a screen for a short-term event.
You want to test LED before buying.
You do not want the hassle of ownership.
Final Warning: Get Professional Advice
LED displays are complex. Getting the right screen for your application requires careful planning. A screen that is too low resolution will look pixelated. A screen that is not bright enough will be washed out. A screen installed incorrectly may fail.
Work with experienced suppliers. Ask for references. See installations in person. Get everything in writing.
A well-chosen LED screen is a powerful tool. A poorly chosen one is an expensive mistake.
Official Resources:
South African National Standards for electrical installations: SANS 10142
Local municipalities for signage bylaws
Professional AV associations
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. LED screen prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information with suppliers and manufacturers before purchasing.