Show controlled near black, near white and gray steps to check whether shadow and highlight levels remain distinguishable.
Why this test is useful
Near black and near white steps should remain distinguishable. Merged dark steps can mean black crush, while merged bright steps can mean highlight clipping or a range mismatch. If black or white levels merge unexpectedly, also check RGB range, HDR mode, black level and contrast settings before assuming the panel is defective.
Before you start
- Start at the brightness you normally use. Extreme brightness can exaggerate some panel behavior and make the result less representative of daily use.
- If automatic brightness or dynamic contrast keeps changing the image, turn it off for the comparison and restore it afterward.
- If black or white levels merge unexpectedly, also check RGB range, HDR mode, black level and contrast settings before assuming the panel is defective.
A reliable way to run the test
- Near black and near white steps should remain distinguishable. Merged dark steps can mean black crush, while merged bright steps can mean highlight clipping or a range mismatch.
- Check both the darkest and brightest ramps, then compare the result with normal HDR or SDR content before changing monitor controls.
- If black or white levels merge unexpectedly, also check RGB range, HDR mode, black level and contrast settings before assuming the panel is defective.
- When comparing monitor modes, change one setting at a time and use the same test speed, brightness and viewing position.
How to read the result
Near black and near white steps should remain distinguishable. Merged dark steps can mean black crush, while merged bright steps can mean highlight clipping or a range mismatch. If black or white levels merge unexpectedly, also check RGB range, HDR mode, black level and contrast settings before assuming the panel is defective. Check both the darkest and brightest ramps, then compare the result with normal HDR or SDR content before changing monitor controls.
What to do next
- If black or white levels merge unexpectedly, also check RGB range, HDR mode, black level and contrast settings before assuming the panel is defective.
- When comparing monitor modes, change one setting at a time and use the same test speed, brightness and viewing position.
- After an artificial pattern reveals something, check the same area with real photos, video or games at your normal viewing distance.
What this test cannot prove
This is a visual reference, not color calibration. Accurate calibration requires measurement hardware and a controlled color workflow. Do not make a hardware decision from one pattern alone. Repeat the observation with a second pattern or related test. Browser timing and display information are practical estimates, not laboratory instruments or certified specifications.