Monitor Ghosting: Test It and Reduce the Trails
Ghosting is a blur or trail behind moving things on screen. It's linked to slow response time, a mismatched refresh rate, outdated graphics drivers or low-quality cables. It doesn't damage your monitor, and settings changes often reduce it.
Check it now with the moving block screen test
Fixes to try (easiest first)
- Run the moving-block test
Watch for a trail behind the moving block in our screen test. It shows whether you really have ghosting, rather than a fixed shadow. [1]
- Set the correct refresh rate
Make sure your computer is sending the refresh rate your monitor supports. [1]
- Adjust the monitor's response time setting
Many monitors let you change response time in their menu. Try the different levels while watching the moving test. [1]
- Update graphics drivers
Outdated graphics drivers are one of the common causes. [1]
- Use a good-quality cable
Low-quality cables can contribute to ghosting. Try a known-good cable. [1]
Is it worth fixing?
Ghosting is usually treated as a settings issue and typically isn't covered by warranty unless a part is defective. Try the free fixes first. If none of them work, Lenovo says you may need a new graphics card or monitor.
Repair or replace? Try the calculator ยท Not sure this is your problem? Take the quiz
Common questions
Is monitor ghosting dangerous?
No. Lenovo says it only affects how images appear and doesn't damage your hardware.
Sources
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