We have studied the narrow viewing angle liquie crystal displays (LCDs) using a hybrid aligned nematic liquid crystal (LC) cell driven by a fringe field. The device using a LC with positive dielectric anisotropy has a relatively low transmittance. This paper describes how to improve light efficiency by optimizing electrode structure. The results show that the device exhibits a high transmittance of 90%, low driving voltage and narrow viewing angle less than 20° along horizontal direction which is highly effective for private display application.