If you ever get to speak to someone who spent his childhood and teenage years in the 70s, 80s, 90s, and even early 2000s, you will figure that education and learning in those eras were radically different from today. Today, it’s all about immersive and interactive learning. And hence, it’s all about interactive devices like smartboards or interactive flat panel displays (IFPDs).
The large touchscreen displays, called IFPDs or smartboards, are making a big difference. These modern devices aren’t just changing how teachers teach; they’re creating classrooms where students can actively participate and learn together in new ways. With so many companies offering these “smartboards,” it’s important for educational institutes and teachers to find the ones that work best to help them reach their educational goals.
With this blog, we will outline the top brands offering the best IFPDs for education so you can make an informed decision. We will also brief the readers about how a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution is a must to manage smartboards, irrespective of the brand you choose.
Top Educational Interactive Flat Panel Display or Smartboard Providers
Time to get cracking with our curated list of the best IFPDs in the context of Education 4.0.
1. BenQ
BenQ stands out for its commitment to delivering user-friendly IFPDs, designed with educators and learners in mind. Its smartboards are renowned for their stunning display quality, eye-care technology, and interactive software solutions that cater to diverse educational needs. BenQ’s offerings are particularly praised for their ease of use, making digital learning accessible to teachers and students alike, irrespective of their tech proficiency.
BenQ’s IFPDs incorporate features that make teaching and learning more interactive and engaging. Its smartboards come with EZWrite software, which allows for instant digital annotation, making it easier for teachers to illustrate concepts. The ClassroomCare technology prioritizes health with germ-resistant screens and low blue light emissions to ensure a safer and more comfortable learning environment.
Pros:
- Eye-care technology reduces eye strain during long periods of use.
- Germ-resistant screens promote a healthier classroom environment.
- User-friendly interface and software enhance the learning experience.
Cons:
- Limited customization options for advanced users.
- The initial cost might be higher than some other brands.
2. ViewSonic
ViewSonic has carved a niche for itself by offering IFPDs that are both innovative and versatile. Its smartboards come equipped with multi-touch capabilities, robust annotation tools, and seamless integration with educational apps, enhancing interactive learning. ViewSonic smartboards support extensive multi-touch gestures, allowing multiple students to interact with the display simultaneously, which is ideal for collaborative projects and interactive learning sessions.
ViewSonic’s IFPDs are known for their robust build and versatile functionality, catering to a wide range of educational needs. ViewSonic integrates with myViewBoard software, offering a comprehensive digital whiteboard solution for drawing, writing, and presenting educational content.
Pros:
- Multi-user interaction encourages collaborative learning.
- High-quality displays with responsive touch capabilities.
- Comprehensive educational software suite included.
Cons:
- Some users might find the software learning curve steep.
- Accessories and additional features may incur extra costs.
3. LG
LG brings to the table IFPDs that are not only technologically advanced but also aesthetically pleasing, fitting seamlessly into modern classroom environments. Known for their superior display quality and durability, LG’s smartboards ensure educational content is presented in the most engaging and visually appealing manner. With user-centric design and intuitive interfaces, LG’s IFPDs enhance interactive learning, making complex subjects more accessible and enjoyable for students.
LG’s IFPDs are distinguished by their exceptional display quality, incorporating Ultra HD resolution that brings educational content to life. These smartboards are designed for durability and long-term use, with features like tempered glass for screen protection. LG’s webOS platform enables easy access to apps and content, making it simpler to integrate digital resources into lessons.
Pros:
- Superior image quality with Ultra HD resolution.
- Durable design suitable for the educational environment.
- Easy integration with digital resources through webOS.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to premium features.
- Limited educational software pre-installed.
4. Samsung
Samsung’s IFPDs are synonymous with innovation, offering cutting-edge technology that revolutionizes the learning experience. Its smartboards are designed for optimal interactivity and are equipped with high-resolution displays, responsive touch features, and advanced connectivity options. Samsung focuses on creating immersive learning environments where students can explore and interact with educational content in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Samsung smartboards run on Samsung’s proprietary Tizen OS, which supports a wide range of educational applications and content. Samsung smartboards also feature MagicIWB, an interactive whiteboard software that transforms traditional presentations into dynamic and engaging learning experiences.
Pros:
- Advanced connectivity options for seamless integration with other devices.
- High-resolution displays with intuitive touch response.
- Comprehensive software ecosystem with educational apps.
Cons:
- Tizen OS may have a learning curve for those unfamiliar with it.
- Premium pricing for advanced features.
5. Cornea
Cornea may be lesser known than its counterparts, but it offers IFPDs that are both high-quality and cost-effective, making technology-driven education accessible to a wider range of institutions. Its smartboards are praised for their reliability, ease of installation, and compatibility with various educational software, ensuring institutions can leverage digital learning tools without significant investment.
Cornea smartboards are designed to be straightforward and easy to use, making digital learning a possibility for schools and institutions with limited budgets. While Cornea may not offer the same level of advanced features as its competitors, it provides a reliable and effective solution for interactive learning.
Pros:
- More affordable than other leading brands.
- Simple and straightforward functionality, ideal for basic educational needs.
- Good build quality for the price.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features and software options.
- Brand recognition and support networks may not be as extensive as other providers.
Managing IFPDs with Scalefusion UEM
Integrating IFPDs into the educational ecosystem is only the first step; managing these devices efficiently is key to maximizing their value addition. Scalefusion UEM is a powerful tool for educational institutions, enabling them to manage a wide array of IFPDs across different brands.
With Scalefusion, IT administrators can:
Deploy and Configure IFPDs: Easily set up IFPDs across classrooms, ensuring they are configured with the necessary educational apps and settings tailored to the institution’s needs.
Centralized Device Management: Monitor and manage all IFPDs from a single dashboard, streamlining operations and ensuring devices are always ready for learning activities.
Secure Devices: Implement security policies to protect sensitive educational data and prevent unauthorized access, ensuring a safe learning environment.
Troubleshoot Remotely: Quickly address any technical issues with IFPDs, minimizing downtime and ensuring seamless learning experiences.
| Explore in depth how UEM enables IFPD management. |
Choose Your Best Smartboard (IFPD) and Leave the Rest to Scalefusion
Scalefusion’s UEM platform empowers educational institutions to embrace the benefits of IFPDs fully, ensuring these advanced tools contribute effectively to the educational process. By simplifying smartboard management, Scalefusion allows educators to focus on what they do best—teaching and inspiring the next generation.
Once you have onboarded the best-fit IFPD or smartboard provider, contact our experts and schedule a demo to explore how Scalefusion enables seamless IFPD management.
