A display may have a color filter layer and a thin-film transistor layer. A layer of liquid crystal material may be located between the color filter layer and the thin-film transistor layer. Column spacers may be formed on the color filter layer to maintain a desired gap between the color filter and thin-film transistor layers. Support pads may be used to support the column spacers. The column spacers and support pads may have comparable thicknesses. Different column spacers may be located at different portions of the support pads to allow the support pad size to be reduced while ensuring adequate support.