Gradient & Banding Test
Inspect smooth tonal transitions, 8-bit vs 10-bit color depth rendition, and gamma response across precision gradients.
Diagnostic Sequence Preview
This test automatically cycles through calibrated solid color surfaces.
What to Look For
High-quality displays render smooth, continuous transitions between colors. Lower bit-depth panels (like 6-bit + FRC) or poorly calibrated gamma curves produce visible vertical step lines, known as color banding or posterization.
- Harsh vertical lines or 'steps' instead of a continuous smooth gradation.
- Color tinting in the neutral gray transitions of the monochrome gradient.
- Crushed blacks or blown-out highlights near the 0% and 100% gradient extremities.
- Dithering artifacts or shimmering noise in intermediate color zones.
Display Preparation Tips
- 1Warning: Gradient appearance can vary between browsers and GPU color profiles. This test is intended as a visual inspection aid.
- 2Ensure your GPU control panel is set to 8-bit or 10-bit RGB Full Dynamic Range.
- 3Set monitor gamma to standard 2.2.
- 4Examine the midpoint transition (especially yellow on red-to-green and cyan on blue-to-green).
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes color banding?
Color banding occurs when there are not enough discrete color values available to represent a smooth blend, common in 6-bit panels, heavy image compression, or mismatched gamma settings.
How can I improve gradient smoothness?
Enable 10-bit color (if supported by your GPU and display), select RGB Full Range (0-255) instead of Limited (16-235), and use factory calibrated gamma settings.
Ready to Check Your Screen?
Launch full-screen diagnostics right now to verify pixel health, backlight uniformity, and color fidelity across your entire display.
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