Understanding Image Retention vs. Burn-in
When a static image (like a taskbar, channel logo, or HUD in a video game) is displayed for long periods, you may notice a ghost-like silhouette left behind. It is important to distinguish between temporary image retention and permanent physical burn-in.
On IPS and TN panels, this is often "Image Retention" caused by a build-up of parasitic electrical charge within the liquid crystals. This is generally temporary. On OLED and AMOLED screens, persistent static images can cause the organic materials to degrade unevenly, leading to permanent "Burn-in". If you suspect your screen has a localized hardware defect rather than image retention, you can use our Dead Pixel Test to easily spot broken sub-pixels.
How this tool may help with temporary retention: By forcing the screen to cycle through primary colors or display high-contrast white noise, this tool essentially exercises the pixels. It forces rapid voltage state changes, which may reduce the appearance of temporary charge build-up. Permanent physical burn-in will remain.
Brand-Specific Retention & Burn-in Notes
Different devices and panel technologies experience image retention in unique ways. Here is what you should know about popular brands:
- Samsung Galaxy & Apple iPhone (AMOLED/OLED): Smartphones often suffer from "status bar burn-in" or ghosting from static UI elements. Running this tool in "White Noise" mode for 15-30 minutes can help clear temporary UI retention.
- LG OLED TVs & Monitors: These panels are fantastic for gaming (verify your screen's exact Hz with our Refresh Rate Test), but leaving a HUD on screen for hours can cause ghosting. Our "Rapid Color Cycle" can be used as an additional method to stimulate the pixels.
- General IPS Monitors (Dell, Asus, HP): While IPS panels rarely suffer from permanent OLED-style burn-in, they are very susceptible to temporary image retention. If you see ghosting, 15 minutes of color cycling usually clears the panel completely.