---
title: Nit
description: A nit is a unit of screen brightness equal to one candela per square metre — the number that decides whether a display stays readable in daylight.
type: glossary
term: Nit
category: display
shortDefinition: A nit is a unit of luminance equal to one candela per square metre (cd/m²). It measures how bright a display is — indoor signage typically needs 350–700 nits, while window-facing and outdoor screens need 2,500 nits or more.
seeAlso:
  - Pixel pitch
  - System on Chip
  - Duty cycle
visual: brightness
inLoopvew:
  text: Loopvew can adjust screen brightness remotely on supported commercial displays.
  label: Samsung Tizen screen controls
  href: /platforms/samsung-tizen
---

Brightness is the single most common reason a digital sign fails in the field: a panel that looks vivid in a showroom washes out completely behind glass in afternoon sun.

## How many nits do I need?

| Placement | Recommended brightness |
| --- | --- |
| Indoor, controlled lighting | 350–500 nits |
| Indoor, bright ambient light | 700–1,000 nits |
| Semi-outdoor / shaded storefront | 1,500–2,500 nits |
| Window-facing or full outdoor | 2,500–5,000 nits |

A consumer TV typically peaks around 250–400 nits, which is why consumer panels underperform as storefront signage even when the resolution is identical.