09CONTRAST / SHADOW + HIGHLIGHT

Contrast & Shadow Detail Test

Compare tightly spaced values near black and white. The patterns reveal whether your current settings hide shadow detail or clip bright highlights.

Browser-generated pattern · Not a laboratory measurement

PROTOCOL / 01—04

How to use this test

01
Clean the screen gently and let it reach its normal operating temperature.
02
Set browser zoom to 100% and use the brightness and picture mode you normally use.
03
Start fullscreen mode. Use arrow keys, Space, click or touch to change patterns.
04
Observe from your normal position first, then move closer only to inspect a detail.

OBSERVE

INTERPRET

If the darkest boxes merge, check black level, RGB range and gamma. If the brightest merge, reduce contrast or inspect HDR and video-range settings.

LIMITS

Correct visibility depends on room light, display technology, gamma target and intended video range. More visible boxes are not always more accurate.

FAQ

01What is black crush?

Black crush occurs when several dark tones are rendered as the same black, hiding shadow detail.

02Should reference black be invisible?

Yes: the 0 reference is the background. Levels just above it should become gradually visible under suitable conditions.