In the realm of computer monitors, the landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. The once-limited selection of OLED monitors has expanded into a vibrant market, thanks to the innovations brought forth by LG Display and Samsung Display. These industry giants have introduced competing models, namely white OLED (WOLED) and quantum dot OLED (QD-OLED) monitors, respectively. The result? A plethora of options that have not only mitigated OLED scarcity but have also made OLED monitors more accessible in terms of price.
But what about the longstanding concern surrounding OLED burn-in? It’s no secret that computer monitors often display static images, such as icons, taskbars, and browser address bars, which increases the risk of burn-in. In this article, we delve deep into the world of modern OLED monitors to understand how they combat the dreaded burn-in issue.
The Persistence of Burn-in
If you’ve ever owned a plasma display, you’re likely familiar with the specter of permanent image retention, casting a shadow over otherwise brilliant display technologies. While some enthusiasts dismiss burn-in risk as an overhyped relic of the past, there are still accounts of burn-in occurring on modern OLED monitors. It’s important to note that one person’s experience doesn’t guarantee the same outcome for everyone. Moreover, distinguishing between TFT layer-related image retention (which may be temporary) and permanent degradation of the OLED layer (true burn-in) can be challenging.
For instance, Dough, formerly known as Eve, is currently accepting preorders for its first OLED monitor. Before embarking on this project, the company consulted with gaming monitor brands that were already offering 48-inch OLED monitors. According to Konstantinos Karatsevidis, co-founder of Dough, industry feedback suggested that burn-in affected “around 5 percent of users” after two years of usage. While this figure might be taken with a grain of salt, it’s a reminder that burn-in, even if relatively rare, is still a concern for monitor owners who aim to use their displays for an extended period.
However, this shouldn’t deter prospective buyers from considering the latest OLED monitors. These models incorporate improved materials and firmware that significantly enhance their resistance to burn-in compared to their predecessors.
Burn-in Risk: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Scenario
Advancements in materials science, particularly in the realm of OLED and quantum dots, play a pivotal role in extending the lifespan of OLED displays. Roland Wooster, the chair of VESA’s Display Performance Metrics Task Group, emphasized the significance of physical design changes. For example, addressing issues with a specific color, such as blue, can involve making larger blue pixels to reduce the current required for brightness, thereby prolonging their lifespan. Cooling mechanisms have also been optimized to mitigate temperature-related burn-in risks.
Burn-in occurs when subpixels lose their brightness over time, leading to shifts in color or dimming. Monitor firmware can be instrumental in mitigating or concealing such damage. A “wear level” is calculated for each pixel by tracking the time each subpixel is displayed and at what brightness. Algorithms are then used to estimate luminance degradation, allowing for compensation. However, this method requires spare luminance headroom that is utilized as the display ages. Alternatively, if the display operates at maximum luminance when new without preserving headroom, the algorithm adjusts other pixels over time to match the brightness of the burned-in pixels, resulting in a gradual decrease in peak luminance.
Unraveling the mystery of which OLED monitors are more susceptible to burn-in is not a straightforward task. Monitor manufacturers employ a range of firmware, software, and hardware techniques to combat burn-in, and these methods can vary both within a brand’s product lineup and among monitors utilizing the same OLED panel but produced by different Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
In conclusion, while burn-in remains a potential concern for OLED monitor owners, the advancements in materials science, physical design, and innovative firmware have collectively transformed modern OLED monitors into more resilient and durable options. As you consider your next monitor purchase, it’s essential to weigh the risk of burn-in against the benefits of OLED technology and the specific usage patterns that apply to your needs. With the right precautions and informed choices, you can enjoy the vibrant display quality that OLED monitors offer without undue worry about burn-in.