Labs

LCD monitors

Before testing, we calibrate each monitor to ensure that it produces the best possible picture. We then use a specialised video splitter to send the same source signal to all the monitors in each size category at once, which allows us to spot even the subtlest differences between them.

First we display a series of test photos, selected for their high contrast scenes, skin tones and recognisable environments, to check colour accuracy. We then use solid colour blocks to check for even illumination and to reveal any dead or stuck pixels. Our colour wheel tests show up any unusual colour casts such as a blue tinge, while our greyscale transition test is essentially a colour ramp from black to white. It shows a smooth blend through the greys when reproduced correctly, but noticeable banding on poor monitors.

Finally, we run a selection of game and video samples to check for problems with smearing or sluggish pixel response.