How to Identify and Prevent Monitor Burn-In
Complexity: Easy | Time: 5 min
Monitor burn-in, also known as image retention, occurs when a static image remains visible on the screen for an extended period. This is more common on OLED and some older display technologies.
This guide explains what monitor burn-in is, how to identify it, and steps you can take to reduce or prevent it.
Why Should I Check for Monitor Burn-In?
You may need to check for burn-in if you experience:
• Faint outlines of windows or icons remaining on screen
• Ghost images visible on solid backgrounds
• Persistent shapes or taskbars that do not disappear
• Uneven display appearance after long usage periods
These symptoms may indicate image retention or permanent burn-in.
What Is Monitor Burn-In?
Burn-in occurs when static images remain displayed for long periods, causing uneven wear on parts of the panel.
Examples include:
• Taskbars
• HUD elements in games
• Desktop icons
• Static logos or overlays
On some displays, this may be temporary image retention, while in severe cases it can become permanent.
Important Notes
• OLED displays are more susceptible to burn-in than LCD panels
• Long periods of static content increase the risk
• Image retention is not always permanent
• Prevention is the best long-term solution
Steps to Check for Burn-In
Open a Solid Colour Background
• Use full-screen colours such as white, grey, black, red, green, or blue
• Look for faint outlines, shapes, or shadows
Check Multiple Colours
• Some retention is easier to see on specific backgrounds
• Persistent patterns may indicate burn-in
How to Reduce or Prevent Burn-In
• Avoid leaving static images on screen for long periods.
• Enable screen timeout or sleep mode.
• Turn the display off automatically when inactive.
• Use dark mode where possible.
• Lower screen brightness.
• Excessive brightness can increase panel wear over time.
• Enable built-in panel protection features.
• Some monitors include:
• Pixel shifting
• Pixel refresh
• Screen move functions
• Hide static UI elements when possible.
• Examples include taskbars or permanent overlays.
Can Burn-In Be Fixed?
Temporary image retention may improve over time by:
• Displaying moving content
• Running panel refresh functions
• Turning the monitor off for several hours
Permanent burn-in may not be fully reversible.
What's Next?
After checking your monitor for burn-in, this guide should hopefully paint a clearer picture as to what it is, and what to do.
If you need further assistance or have any questions, feel free to reach out for additional support - we're always happy to help!
