Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have discovered a new micro-LED manufacturing technique. Known as vertical stacking, this process stacks microLEDs to pack more LEDs into a smaller area while avoiding the defects associated with high pixel density.

Pixels have been shrinking for years, and recent advances in microLED technology are taking pixel density to new levels. The problem arises when balancing pixel density, resolution, and size in gaming monitors.

It is a juggling act, with each affecting the other. When seeking a high-resolution, high pixel density gaming monitor, even with micro-LED technology, it is impossible to arrange a sufficient number of LEDs for a panel size that can be placed on a desk.

Currently, the smallest panel that utilizes microLED technology is Samsung's new MicroLED CX (opens in new tab). That's fine if you want to use it from halfway across the room, but placing it on a desk in front of you would be somewhat unpalatable.

On the other hand, limiting pixel density for a more appropriately sized gaming monitor is undesirable. The same problem arises in VR. Because the eye is so close to the panel, if manufacturers cut corners on pixel density, a screen door effect becomes inevitable.

Now, that could all change, as MIT researchers have used this innovative stacking technique to pack micro-LEDs into an unparalleled pixel density of 5,000 ppi (opens in new tab). Incidentally, the highest pixel density of the average gaming monitor is around 160 ppi.

With a width of only 4 microns, these stacked pixels are set to bring sharp visuals to smaller panels such as practical-sized gaming monitors or, in MIT's words, "fully immersive virtual reality displays."

There is still a long way to go before vertically stacked microLEDs are adopted in gaming monitors.