Durability testing reveals dead pixels at edges of older WOLED TVs

RTINGS reported that 14 of 16 older WOLED televisions developed dead pixels near their screen edges during an accelerated longevity test. The televisions, which used LG Display panels and dated from 2020 to 2023, each completed 18,000 hours of operation.

The testing outlet describes the deterioration as “edge rot,” ranging from individual failed pixels to dark patches around screen borders. It distinguishes the damage from burn-in because the displayed content does not cause it.

Following discussions with industry experts, RTINGS suggested that imperfections in the protective panel seal could admit moisture over time. That remains its proposed explanation, rather than a confirmed cause.

Damage appeared in all but one of the ten televisions equipped with older WBC panels; the exception was the 2022 LG A2. Among six sets using newer WBE panels, five showed deterioration, while the 2023 LG G3 did not. Separately, three tested Samsung Display QD-OLED televisions had no dead pixels, although extended CNN viewing caused burn-in.

LG told RTINGS the edge damage might affect a very small number of its OLED televisions following prolonged exposure to harsh conditions, including heat and humidity.

Models from 2024 onward fall outside these findings. Nevertheless, RTINGS is slightly reducing Expected Reliability scores across WOLED televisions while awaiting longer-term evidence. Its continuing Longevity 3.0 test includes newer Tandem WOLED panels from LG Display in televisions including the LG G5 and G6.