DEVICE GUIDE
How to test a new monitor
A practical first-day check for pixels, bleed, uniformity, gradients and motion.
Updated September 1, 2026 · 5 minute read
Before you begin
These are visual browser checks, not manufacturer certification, professional calibration or repair diagnosis.
A focused five-step check
- 01
Warm the monitor for 15 minutes and choose the picture mode you plan to use.
- 02
Clean the panel, then scan solid white, black and RGB fields.
- 03
Dim the room briefly to inspect backlight bleed or near-black uniformity.
- 04
Compare grey fields and gradients without changing settings between patterns.
- 05
Confirm the operating-system refresh setting with the browser estimate, then inspect motion.
GOOD TO KNOW
Pixel policies differ by manufacturer and region. Record what you see and check the seller’s current return terms.