Skip to content
25 August 2026

Getting the best picture from your oled tv

Get the most out of your oled tv with these expert tips on picture modes, tone mapping, and hdr calibration

Getting the best picture from your oled tv

Oled tvs are known for their exceptional picture quality, but to get the most out of them, it’s essential to optimize their settings. Picture modes play a crucial role in enhancing the viewing experience. Most oled tvs come with predefined picture modes, such as cinema modegame mode and standard mode. Each mode is designed to provide the best picture quality for specific types of content.

For example, cinema mode is ideal for watching movies, as it provides a more cinematic experience with accurate color representation and contrast. On the other hand, game mode is designed for gaming, as it reduces input lag and provides a faster response time. Tone mapping is another critical aspect of oled tv settings, as it helps to optimize the contrast and color of the image.

Understanding tone mapping

Tone mapping is the process of adjusting the contrast and color of an image to match the capabilities of the display. Oled tvs use tone mapping to optimize the picture quality and prevent burn-in. Burn-in occurs when a static image is displayed on the screen for an extended period, causing permanent damage to the oled panel.

To prevent burn-in, oled tvs use pixel refresher schedules, which periodically refresh the pixels to prevent static images from causing damage. Additionally, screen-saver settings can be adjusted to turn off the screen or display a moving image after a certain period of inactivity.

Calibrating hdr settings

HDR calibration is essential for getting the most out of your oled tv’s picture quality. HDR (High Dynamic Range) provides a wider range of colors and contrast, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience. To calibrate HDR settings, it’s essential to understand the different HDR formats such as HDR10HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.

Each HDR format has its own unique characteristics, and calibrating the settings correctly can make a significant difference in picture quality. For example, HDR10 is a static metadata format, while HDR10+ is a dynamic metadata format that provides more accurate color representation.

Usage habits to reduce burn-in risk

To reduce the risk of burn-in, it’s essential to adopt good usage habits. One of the most effective ways to prevent burn-in is to use the pixel refresher schedule regularly. Additionally, adjusting the screen-saver settings to turn off the screen or display a moving image after a certain period of inactivity can help prevent static images from causing damage.

It’s also essential to avoid displaying static images, such as logos or menus, for extended periods. Instead, use the screen-saver or turn off the tv when not in use. By following these tips and optimizing your oled tv settings, you can enjoy exceptional picture quality and reduce the risk of burn-in.

Author

Beatrice Mitchell

Beatrice Mitchell, Manchester-rooted and classically elegant, famously commissioned a rebuttal series after a controversial council planning meeting in Stockport, insisting on community testimony. Holds a firm editorial line on accountability and narrative fairness, and collects vintage city planning maps as an idiosyncratic hobby.