Top 5 Video Wall Controllers for Commercial Use

Top 5 Video Wall Controllers for Commercial Use

Sina Plug |

For a strong visual impact in any commercial environment, video wall controllers are essential tools to captivate audiences and communicate your message clearly.

In this guide, you’ll learn about main types of controllers, their features, and five reliable brands that help you choose the best solution for your needs.

If you are short in time, feel free to jump to the sections you’re most interested in:

  • What Is a Video Wall Controller?
  • Types of Video Wall Controllers Explained
  • Top 5 Video Wall Controller Brands
  • Which Controller Type Is Right for You?

What is a Video Wall Controller?

It can be a physical device or software that projects content onto multiple screens by splitting one image into sections, creating a single large display. This technology is widely used in control rooms, retail displays, events, and advertising to create powerful visual experiences.

Let’s review the various models and their features to determine the best fit for your business needs.

Types of Video Wall Controllers Explained

Here, we introduce six groups and then provide details for each one. For a quick review, you can jump to the table at the end of this section.

  1. Hardware-Based Controllers
  2. Software-Based PC & Video-Card Controllers
  3. Cloud-Based Video Wall Controllers
  4. FPGA-Based Controllers
  5. Network-Based (IP) Video Wall Controllers
  6. Embedded Video Wall Processors

Now, let's take a look at what makes each of them unique.

Hardware-Based Controllers

Unlike software controllers, these electronic devices operate independently of PCs, which makes them more stable. Using a video wall setup, they easily manage to show pictures or videos on multiple screens simultaneously.

Pros: Low latency and high performance for real-time processing, reliable with high-resolution outputs

Cons: High cost & lack of flexibility

Best for: Control rooms and broadcasting, etc., best for enormous, mission-critical environments running at stable 24/7 operation

Uses: Security surveillance, digital signage, public information displays, and event venues

Software-Based PC & Video-Card Controllers

This one uses a standard PC with operating systems like Windows, Linux,or macOS, equipped with multi-output graphic cards. However, their performance depends on the graphics card quality, software, and overall PC specifications. They may also encounter latency or stability problems when handling demanding tasks.

Though they can be pricey sometimes, software-based controllers can launch applications like maps, VoIP clients, SCADA clients, and Digital Signage software, which can directly benefit from the full resolution of video walls.

Pros: Flexible, easy to upgrade, and supports various content sources and layouts

Cons: They can be pricey

Best for: Small to medium installations like corporate offices or retail

Uses: Presentations, advertising displays, educational environments, and conference rooms

Cloud-Based Video Wall Controllers

These types of video wall controllers use a browser-based interface and are managed entirely through the cloud, allowing users to control video walls remotely via an internet-connected platform. Using these controllers, users don't need the usual complex cabling and on-site hardware. For their flexibility, they are Ideal for retail chains, corporate communications, and advertising networks. Cloud solutions often come with drag-and-drop interfaces and support for multimedia content, including video, images, and live feeds.

Pros: Remote management, no on-site infrastructure needed

Best for: Retail chains, global marketing campaigns

Examples: Some modern signage platforms offer this (like NoviSign or Rise Vision)

FPGA-Based Controllers

For improved performance and ultra-low latency, FPGA-based Video Wall Controllers use Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). One of their unique features is that these controllers can be programmed at the hardware level, making them highly customizable for data handling and processing. That's why they are the perfect choice for military centers, medical imaging systems, and high-end broadcasting. They support complex video manipulations like scaling, cropping, and real-time switching. Brands like Barco and RGB Spectrum often incorporate FPGA technology in their advanced video wall systems.

Pros: Real-time, customized logic processing

Cons: They can be pricey

Best for: Military, medical imaging, high-end broadcasting

Network-Based (IP) Video Wall Controllers

These types of controllers use IP networks and Ethernet (instead of HDMI or VGA cables) to distribute and manage video signals, displaying them on multiple screens simultaneously. A key benefit of IP controllers is remote access to video walls, allowing for changes to the displays. This makes them an ideal solution for modern control rooms, corporate environments, and digital signage networks.

Pros: Highly scalable, flexible placement, remote access

Best for: Multi-location management, modern smart buildings

Uses: AV-over-IP systems like Crestron NVX or ZeeVee

Embedded Video Wall Processors

They’re ideal if you want an all-in-one video wall solution. These controllers are either installed directly into display units or are small external boxes that you plug hardware controllers into, which reduces installation complexity and cable clutter. They’re perfect for small to medium installations where space is limited, such as retail stores, meeting rooms, and hospitality venues.

Most commercial displays, such as Samsung, LG, and NEC, have video walls inbuilt.

Pros: Small, packed together as many as possible, minimal cables

Best for: Easy plug-and-play installations

Refer to this table for a quick comparison of the flexibility and features of all the video wall controllers mentioned above.

Type of Controller

Require Separate Device

Features

Best For

Flexibility

Hardware-based

Yes

Dedicated Hardware

Control rooms, Events & Pro AV setups

Medium

Software-based

No

PC-based, customizable

Small businesses, digital signage

High

Network-based (IP)

Yes

Remote access

Smart buildings, large-scale installations

Very High

FPGA-based

Yes

Hardware level customization

Military and medical use

Medium

Cloud-based

No

Remote control and manageable via cloud

Retail chain and global signage networks

Very High

Embedded Processors

Yes (built-in to display)

Integrated in displays, plug and play

Hospitality, retail, small-scale setups

Low to Medium

Now that we have all this information, let’s see which brands stand out in the market.

Top 5 Video Wall Controller Brands

NovaStar

From small setups to huge events, NovaStar stands out in the LED display control industry, offering a wide range of controllers suitable for various applications.

Key Features:

  • Supports resolutions up to 8K (e.g., CX80 Pro)
  • Offers both synchronous and asynchronous control options
  • All-in-one controllers like the VX series integrate video processing and sending capabilities
  • User-friendly software for configuration and control

Price Range: Approximately $180 (MCTRL300) to $22,500 (CX80 Pro)

Matrox

Matrox is mostly known for its reliable and versatile video wall controllers, particularly the QuadHead2Go series, which allows for flexible and scalable display configurations.

Key Features:

  • Drives up to four displays from a single input source
  • Supports 4K60 video input and output
  • Independent device operation or integration into existing systems
  • Compact design suitable for various environments

Price Range: Approximately $1,285 to $1,395

Brightlink

Whether you're setting up a simple display or a complex video wall system, Brightlink has you covered. They offer easy-to-use controllers and switchers that let you smoothly transition between video sources and display multiple feeds at once – perfect for creating dynamic viewing experiences.

Key Features:

  • Supports configurations from 2x2 up to 16x16 video walls
  • Seamless switching with zero latency
  • Features like Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and rotation options

Price Range: Approximately $299 to $16,750

ViewZ

ViewZ creates powerful video wall controllers that help professionals manage massive displays with ease. Picture this: whether you’re monitoring city operations 24/7, broadcasting live sports to thousands, or creating stunning visuals in a concert hall, ViewZ has the power and reliability to handle it all.

Key Features:

  • FPGA-based design for high-speed processing
  • Supports configurations up to 20x20 video walls
  • Full HD resolution support with seamless image processing
  • Ideal for control rooms, broadcast centers, and large venues

Price Range: Approximately $9,990 to $31,635

Datavideo

Imagine transforming your space with an eye-catching video display that is not too pricey. That's where Datavideo steps in! Their controllers make it surprisingly simple to create professional video walls for cafes, shops, or conference rooms with minimal technical expertise required.

Key Features:

  • 4K video input and output
  • Real-time processing with minimal delay
  • User-friendly interface
  • Compact design suitable for various environments

Price Range: Approximately $1,599 (TWP-10) to $6,599 (TWP-100) 

Which Controller Type Is Right for You?

To summarize this content, if you're setting up a massive video wall for a stadium control room or broadcast studio, where every pixel matters and downtime isn't an option,ViewZ is the best for you.

Their systems handle enormous 20x20 video grids (400 screens!) while keeping everything buttery-smooth, thanks to their custom-built processing hardware. It's like having a tireless conductor ensuring every screen plays perfectly in sync.

Now, if you're juggling different events or installations, NovaStar brings great versatility. Think of it as a multi-tool that adapts to different venues and requirements.

But for massive permanent installations, ViewZ wears the crown.

Meanwhile, brands like Datavideo and Brightlink are the smart choices for cafes, stores, or smaller venues where you want professional visuals without too many difficulties.

To quickly review, please see the table below.

Brand

Best For

Key Highlights

Ideal User

ViewZ

Stadiums, broadcast studios, mission-critical use

Handles up to 20x20 grids, ultra-stable, FPGA-based, 24/7 operation

Government, broadcast centers, large venues

NovaStar

Versatile event setups and mixed environments

8K support, all-in-one solutions, great flexibility across setups

AV professionals, stage/event managers

Brightlink

Small–medium dynamic installations

Affordable, seamless switching, PIP features, easy configuration

Small businesses, retailers, cafes

Datavideo

Cost-effective professional visuals

User-friendly, compact, 4K ready, minimal setup requirements

Stores, conference rooms, hospitality

Matrox

Scalable, modular display control

Quad-display from one source, 4K60 input/output, compact

Digital signage networks, creative displays

For comprehensive video wall controller solutions, explore SinaPlug – your dedicated AV technology partner. Our platform enables you to:

  • Browse a real-time inventory of professional-grade controllers
  • Access expert consultations for system design and integration guidance.
  • Receive tailored recommendations based on your specific installation requirements

Additionally, we have different products under the "LED Display Controller" category on the SinaPlug website that you can explore.

No matter which controller you choose, it’s important to consider your specific environment, budget, and the level of flexibility you’ll need in the future. Investing in the right solution now can save you time and reduce costs as your display requirements grow. If you’re unsure, consulting with an AV professional can help you pinpoint the best option tailored to your project.