Symptoms
- Faint ghost of a previous image visible right after switching content
- Ghost image gradually fades over several minutes to hours
- Happens after long periods showing the same static screen
- Screen otherwise looks completely normal once retention clears
Likely causes
- CommonProlonged static image causing temporary pixel/liquid crystal 'memory'Pixels can temporarily lag in changing state after being held the same way for a long time.
- CommonHigh brightness combined with a static imageHigher brightness accelerates temporary retention.
- Less commonNew panel still 'settling in'Some brand-new panels show retention more easily in the first weeks of use.
What to do
- Play a full-screen video with lots of motion and varied colors for 15–30 minutes to help the panel 'exercise' out of the retained image.
- Turn off the display for a few hours, since some retention clears simply with the panel powered down.
- Lower brightness for daily use to reduce how quickly retention develops in the future.
- Enable a screen saver or auto-sleep so no single image stays static for hours at a time.
- If you regularly leave the same app or window open all day, occasionally move or resize it to avoid the exact same pixels being static.
- If the image doesn't fade at all after a day of varied use, it likely has become permanent burn-in rather than temporary retention.
Tools and parts
- None
When to call a pro
This usually resolves on its own without any repair; only seek professional help if the 'ghost' image never fades after a day or more of normal, varied use, since at that point it may be true burn-in.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.