LCD bar displays (also known as stretched LCD bar displays) are ultra-wide screens designed to deliver clear and dynamic content in narrow spaces. Because of their unique aspect ratios and high resolution, they are increasingly used in supermarkets, retail stores, transportation hubs, exhibitions, and corporate environments.
Compared with traditional 16:9 displays, bar-type LCD screens make the most of limited installation space and present information in a visually striking way.
But many people ask: What size should I choose? Where should I install it? What specifications really matter?
This article takes you through a practical selection process — from installation scenarios to display sizes, control options, and planning considerations — so you can make an informed choice for your project.
1. Start with the Installation Scenario: Placement Determines Size
The very first step is to look at where you plan to install the screen. Different locations call for different width-to-height ratios, brightness levels, and control options.
Shelf-Edge Installation: Narrow Bar Displays
When mounting directly on a retail shelf edge, vertical space is limited — a display that is too tall will block the products behind it. A narrow, long bar display is the best solution here: it shows prices, promotions, and product information while keeping the shelf easy to access.
Popular sizes include:
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23.1″ — compact and easy to install on single-layer shelves
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32.1″ — extra-long, allowing more content to be displayed
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47.1″ — can cover the full length of a shelf edge for a continuous, unified look
Tip: Measure the usable width of the shelf edge and leave space for mounting brackets. Choose the size closest to your shelf length for a seamless fit.
Shelf-Top Installation: Wider Bar Displays
When the display is mounted on top of a shelf or at the end cap, you have more freedom in height. This allows you to choose a slightly taller and more prominent display, perfect for dynamic branding and promotional content.
Good options include:
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24.5″ — ideal for small shelf sections or localized promotions
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28.1″ / 28.6″ — slightly taller, giving a more impactful visual presence
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37.6″ — well-suited for large stores and open spaces where customers view from a distance
Installation Note: Angle-adjustable mounting brackets are recommended for top-mounted displays so the content faces the shopper directly and improves readability.
Vertical Wall-Mount or Wayfinding: Large-Size Bar Displays
For entrances, corridors, and public areas, you may need to display videos, wayfinding information, menus, or queue numbers. Vertically mounted large bar displays work best here — they offer higher resolution and larger display areas for visually engaging content.
Recommended sizes:
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49.5″ — suitable for localized wayfinding or directional signage
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56.6″ / 65.7″ — often used for brand windows, entrance displays, or trade show booths
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88″ — a stunning oversized display that can show full-screen video or multi-screen split content
Tip: When installing in hallways, consider viewing distance and walking space — a screen that is too large or too bright can overwhelm the viewer.
2. Content Control and Management
Most modern LCD bar displays come with built-in Android OS, so you can manage and update content via:
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Cloud platform management — centrally control multiple screens across different locations
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Mobile app — quick updates from your phone
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USB plug-and-play — simple playback without network connection
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Multi-screen sync — create a continuous image across multiple displays
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Intelligent split screen — show pricing, ads, and logos simultaneously
High contrast and brightness ensure visibility even in brightly lit environments. Some models also support capacitive touch, enabling interactive experiences such as menu browsing or product lookup.
3. Planning and Customization Considerations
Bar displays are created by cutting full-size LCD panels, so custom sizes must follow panel and controller limitations. If your project requires a non-standard dimension, plan ahead and confirm feasibility with the manufacturer to allow for production lead time.
Other factors to consider:
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Mounting method: shelf edge, embedded, wall-mounted, or suspended
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Power supply & cabling: centralized vs distributed power, concealed wiring for a neat look
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Maintenance: ease of removal for repair or replacement, remote content updates