OLED screens are known for their sharp images and colors. However, some face an issue called “burn-in.” This article explains what that is and why it happens.
In the domain of cutting-edge display technology, OLED has emerged as a top contender, renowned for its vibrant colors and true blacks. However, like all technologies, it isn’t without its quirks. One of the most frequently discussed drawbacks of OLED displays is the phenomenon known as “burn-in.” But what exactly is this “burn-in” issue, and why is it innate to OLEDs? This article will tell you the science behind OLED technology and the reasons leading to its susceptibility to burn-in.
What is an OLED display?
OLED stands for “Organic Light Emitting Diodes.” It is the newest invention in display technologies, following IPS. It’s a different way to make screens light up compared to older methods. In OLED screens, tiny organic materials glow when electricity is applied, producing the picture. One cool thing about these screens is that they can turn off individual pixels completely. This means they can show a perfect black color, which makes other colors look even better. That’s why many people like OLED screens for watching movies or using their phones because the quality of the picture can be really good.
How Does an OLED Display Work?
An OLED display is composed of several layers, including the anode, organic layers, and cathode. Unlike traditional screens, which require a backlight to illuminate them, OLED displays produce light using organic (carbon-based) materials.
When electricity is applied to the display, electrons flow from the cathode to the anode through the organic layers. As these electrons pass through the organic materials, they emit light. The specific colors produced, like red, green, or blue, are determined by the types of organic molecules used. This method of producing light allows OLED screens to be incredibly thin and even flexible. Furthermore, each tiny section (or pixel) of an OLED screen can be turned on or off individually. This results in sharper contrasts, with true black colors achieved by simply turning pixels off completely.
What Exactly differs between an OLED and an IPS Display?
OLED displays function by allowing individual pixels to emit light, which enables them to offer deep blacks due to the capability to completely turn off specific pixels. This design makes OLEDs typically thinner, as they don’t need an external backlight. On the other hand, IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays utilize a backlight situated behind the screen to illuminate the pixels. While they boast good color accuracy and wide viewing angles, IPS displays can’t achieve the same depth of black as OLEDs since the backlight is always on. Additionally, they tend to be thicker because of the necessary backlighting system.
Now you have an answer about OLEDs and understand why OLEDs are superior to traditional IPS displays. So, why do OLEDs experience the burn-in issue?
What Is Screen Burn-In?
Screen burn-in, often simply referred to as “burn-in,” is a display issue where static images persist on a screen over time, leading to a ghosting or permanent impression of that image on the display. This happens when a particular set of pixels are used more frequently than others, causing them to degrade at a different rate. It’s most commonly associated with OLED displays because each individual pixel in OLED generates its own light and can thus wear out with extensive use. However, it’s worth noting that many modern OLED devices have preventative measures to minimize burn-in. In older types of displays, like CRTs and plasma screens, burn-in was also a concern, and now in the latest technology; OLED display has this issue largely.
How Does Burn-In Affect OLED Displays?
The OLED burn-in issue refers to a display anomaly where static images remain as ghostly residues on a screen after prolonged exposure. This happens primarily with OLED displays because each individual pixel in these screens emits its own light. Over time, if the same image or icon stays on the screen consistently, the pixels responsible for that image can degrade at a different rate compared to surrounding pixels. This differential wear leads to the persistent shadow or imprint of that image, even when the content changes, resulting in what’s known as burn-in. While many modern devices with OLED screens incorporate measures to mitigate this issue, burn-in remains a potential concern for prolonged static displays.
Is a Screen Burn-In and Image Ghosting the Same?
In one line, Screen burn-in and image ghosting are related phenomena, but they are not exactly the same; let’s try to understand preciously in detail below.
Screen Burn-in: This is a permanent display defect that results from static images being displayed for extended periods. Over time, certain pixels are used more than others, leading to uneven wear and an enduring shadow or imprint of that image on the screen. It’s most frequently associated with OLED and plasma displays, as they rely on individual pixel luminance.
Image Ghosting: Ghosting is a temporary effect, often seen as a blurry trail or shadow following moving objects on the screen. It’s caused by slow response times of pixels transitioning between colors or brightness levels. It’s more of a transient effect and usually goes away when the moving image or display changes. Ghosting is more commonly associated with LCD displays, especially older ones. Image ghosting generally found in gaming displays with slower response times and higher refresh rates not let happen the image ghosting.
How To Check If My TV or Monitor Has Burn-in Issue?
You may notice certain spots on the screen. These often originate from static images such as icons, headers, video game interfaces, or channel logos from sports, news, and weather broadcasts. Refer to the image below for a clearer understanding.
How Can I Stop Screen From Buring?
If you have an OLED display or chances if any other display, you may want to ask this question How to avoid burn-in on an OLED screen? So let’s figure it out.
In one word, avoid static images. Whether you’re watching a channel, news, sports, or any other content, if there’s a logo in the corner or an image that remains unchanged, be it for the duration of a movie, match, or any other content, that’s what’s referred to as a static image. Such static images, which could be logos, content titles, or any persistent on-screen element, are the primary culprits behind screen burn-in. Some individuals mistakenly interchange the terms ‘image retention’ and ‘screen burn-in.’ To clarify, image retention is temporary and fades with time, whereas burn-in is permanent and remains on the screen.
To prevent screen burn-in, avoid displaying static or unchanged images for extended periods.
