Monitor Contrast Test — Shadow & Highlight Detail
Verify that your display reproduces subtle shadow details without crushing into black and bright highlights without clipping into white.
How to Evaluate Shadow & Highlight Separation
- Near-Black Pattern: Look at the grid of numbered dark boxes. On a well-calibrated display, you should be able to distinguish boxes down to at least RGB (2,2,2) against the solid black background.
- Near-White Pattern: Look at the bright boxes. You should be able to distinguish subtle boxes up to RGB (253,253,253) against the pure white background.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shadow crushing and highlight clipping?
Shadow crushing happens when dark gray tones (such as RGB 1, 2, 3) merge into solid black, hiding shadow details. Highlight clipping happens when light grays (RGB 250, 252, 254) blend into solid white, washing out bright clouds and skies.
How do I adjust my monitor to pass the contrast test?
Open your monitor OSD menu: adjust Brightness so the darkest blocks (RGB 2 and 3) are faintly visible against the black background, and adjust Contrast so the brightest blocks (RGB 252 and 253) remain distinguishable from pure white.
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