OLED displays dominated the landscape at CES 2026, drawing attention partly because they remain largely untouched by fluctuations in memory costs. Tim Schiesser from Hardware Unboxed stands out as a leading authority on OLED technology. During the event, Adam spoke with him about these screens and the extensive burn-in evaluations his team has conducted over nearly two years.
For those considering investing significant sums in PC monitors, the risk of permanent image retention on OLED panels remains a major issue, particularly given the fixed elements in desktop environments compared to the dynamic content on televisions or mobile devices.
Tim suggests that the level of concern varies based on usage patterns. Primarily for gaming, the risk appears low, resembling television behavior. However, dedicating half or more of screen time to standard desktop activities could increase vulnerability.
Several strategies can help reduce the likelihood. Opt for full-screen modes in applications and games where feasible. Concealing the system tray might also assist, though it could inconvenience some users. Many OLED models offer two- to three-year coverage specifically for burn-in, providing reassurance. Additionally, innovative features such as recognition of static elements and the toolbar, along with targeted brightness adjustments, aim to address these challenges.
Despite these efforts, completely preventing retention during extended productivity sessions proves difficult, especially with prolonged daily use. A noteworthy advancement in recent displays involves user presence sensing, a longstanding tool for energy conservation now adapted to protect OLED longevity, potentially surpassing traditional mitigation methods.
This could prove significant as OLED adoption grows in PC gaming circles and affordability improves. Potential buyers may benefit from awaiting the upcoming burn-in analysis from Monitors Unboxed. While exploring online, consider subscribing to PCWorld's channel for further expert conversations and tuning into The Full Nerd for regular tech roundups.