OLED Burn-in vs Image Retention
Understand the difference between temporary image retention and OLED burn-in before deciding whether a mark is a serious screen problem.
Quick answer
Image retention is a temporary shadow that can fade after normal mixed use. OLED burn-in is persistent uneven pixel wear that remains across different content and flat colors. A short test can help separate them, but a web page cannot certify panel damage.
What to look for
Status bars, navigation buttons, game HUDs, channel logos and keyboard outlines are common shapes. They are often easiest to see on low gray, white and muted color screens.
Test without adding risk
Use moderate brightness and move through the test colors briefly. Do not leave a static maximum-brightness pattern open for a long time; the goal is visual inspection, not a stress test.
What software can and cannot do
Normal varied content may reduce temporary retention. True burn-in cannot be repaired by a browser because it is physical wear. Use manufacturer pixel-refresh or panel-care features only according to the device instructions.
How to verify it
- Let the screen cool after showing high-contrast static content.
- Check low gray, white and several muted colors at moderate brightness.
- Return to normal mixed content and check the same area again later.
- Treat a mark that persists across days and colors as more likely to be burn-in.