Using an LG OLED as a PC Monitor – Setup Tips and Burn‑In Prevention

Introduction

LG OLED TVs make fantastic large‑screen PC monitors thanks to perfect blacks, high contrast, near‑instant response, and 120Hz support. This guide focuses on text clarity, proper color range, smooth desktop motion, and practical burn‑in prevention for productivity users.

Optimal PC Settings (TV side)

• Set input label to “PC” on the HDMI port you use for your computer. This ensures proper chroma 4:4:4 for sharp text.
• Enable “HDMI Ultra HD Deep Color” on that HDMI port.
• Use a certified HDMI 2.1 cable (4K 120Hz).
• Verify you’re at 3840×2160 (4K) and 120Hz.

Windows and macOS Adjustments

Windows:

• Output color format as RGB at Full range (0–255) for accurate blacks and whites.
• Confirm 10‑bit output in your GPU control panel where supported to reduce banding.
• Consider ClearType tuning for crisp fonts.

macOS:

• Use HiDPI (Retina) scaling for font clarity. If not available, tools like BetterDisplay can expose safe HiDPI modes.
• Prefer RGB output; avoid YCbCr for desktop use when possible.
• Enable 10‑bit where supported; keep scaling consistent across desktops/spaces.

Preventing Burn‑In During Productivity

• Use Dark Mode in apps and OS to reduce average picture level (APL).
• Hide taskbar/dock or set to auto‑hide.
• Use a screensaver or dim after short inactivity.
• Rotate static layouts (e.g., swap sides for chat/mail panes periodically).
• On TV, keep Screen Shift enabled and consider moderate Logo Luminance Adjustment.
• Avoid leaving static full‑screen white documents for hours; take breaks.

If you do mostly static work, consider reducing aggressive dimming only for desktop sessions — see Disable Auto‑Dimming (TPC & GSR). For a deeper TPC breakdown, see Disable TPC Guide.

Calibration for Productivity (Comfort First)

• Start with moderate OLED Light / Pixel Brightness; increase only as needed.
• Keep peak brightness conservative for long sessions; prioritize eye comfort.
• Calibrate white point and gamma if you do color‑sensitive work; minimize ABL/TPC triggers.

Troubleshooting Text Clarity

• If text looks fringing/colored, confirm 4:4:4 chroma (PC label + RGB).
• If blacks look gray or crushed, re‑check RGB Full (0–255) end‑to‑end.
• If motion feels smeary, ensure 120Hz is active and disable excessive motion interpolation for desktop use.

FAQ

Is OLED safe as a daily PC monitor?

Yes — with good hygiene. Keep static UI moving, use Dark Mode/screensavers, and avoid marathon full‑white windows. Many users run OLEDs daily without issues.

Do I need 10‑bit on desktop?

It’s optional but helpful for gradient rendering and banding reduction if your workflow benefits from it.

Why does my text look soft?

Check for 4:4:4 chroma (PC label), RGB Full output, and a correct scaling factor (HiDPI on macOS). A wrong color format or non‑PC label is the usual culprit.

With careful setup and a few safety habits, an LG OLED can be an exceptional PC monitor for both productivity and play.