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Einbrennen (Burn-in)
In brief
Burn-in refers to permanent image residues on a screen that occur when the same static content is displayed for a long time, such as taskbars, logos or menus. The residues are visible as shadows, especially on bright, uniformly colored areas. On used monitors, notebooks and smartphones, burn-in lowers the condition grade and thus the resale value.
When is a monitor burned in?
Whether a screen can burn in depends on the technology. Self-emissive displays such as OLED, earlier plasma screens and CRT monitors age pixel by pixel. Pixels that frequently light up brightly lose brightness faster. This creates a permanent shadow. LCD screens are more likely to show a temporary afterimage, also called image retention. It usually disappears when the screen shows changing content for a while or is switched off.
Prevention is possible with automatic screen shutoff, changing backgrounds, hidden taskbars and reduced brightness. Modern OLED devices also come with protective functions.
Burn-in should not be confused with the burn-in test: this is the name of a stress test in which hardware runs under full load for an extended period to detect early failures.
Burn-in when buying used and decommissioning
When testing used devices, the display is checked with uniformly colored test images. Burned-in areas, Pixel defects and scratches are factored into the Grading . Second IT checks devices in comprehensive functional tests and, as part of Repair also replaces damaged displays if this is worthwhile for reuse.
Frequently asked questions about burn-in
Can a burned-in screen be repaired?
Permanent burn-in on OLED cannot be reversed; it can only be fixed by replacing the display. A temporary afterimage on LCD usually disappears on its own.
Which screens are particularly affected?
Above all OLED displays, earlier plasma screens and CRT monitors. LCD screens are more likely to show temporary afterimages.
How do I recognize burn-in?
Display a uniformly colored, bright image in full screen, such as gray or white. Burned-in areas then appear as a darker shadow.
Is burn-in the same as a burn-in test?
No. Burn-in means image content burning into a screen. A burn-in test is a stress test in which hardware runs under full load for an extended period to detect early failures. The two terms have nothing to do with each other.
How can I prevent burn-in on a screen?
Use automatic screen shutoff, changing backgrounds and a hidden taskbar. Reduced brightness also helps. Modern OLED devices also come with their own protective functions.
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