Ghosting is a common issue on e-ink displays, including reMarkable tabs, where afterimages of the previous screen remain visible even after you switch the page. It looks like the content is still faintly present on the display.
Ghosting issues can be distracting for users who want a clear screen. I mean that’s pretty annoying when you can’t even properly see the page because some fragments of the previous page are still visible.
The good news is that ghosting is normal on E-Ink screens and does not mean your reMarkable tab is damaged. In most cases, the issue is temporary and can be fixed within seconds using simple steps.
But you need to first differentiate if it is ghosting or dead pixel. Ghosting is a temporary issue but dead pixel is permanent which will leave a permanent spot on the screen.
Ghosting Vs Dead Pixels – Know the differences
Dead pixels and ghosting are often confused, but they are different issues –
- Ghosting is temporary and you’ll see it as a faint shadow of the previous content.
- Dead pixels are permanent and usually black or white spots that stays forever.
- If the black/white marks disappear after a refresh or restart, its ghosting and not any hardware damage.
How to Fix Ghosting on reMarkable tab
While Ghosting is a temporary issue that usually lasts for a very short time, there are still some measures you can take to prevent or fix it –
- Regularly refreshing the screen –
Refreshing the screen helps, avoid leaving static images on screen for too long. you can refresh the screen by simply switching between different pages or contents, which naturally triggers a refresh. The main idea is not to leave the screen on a still image for too long. - Double-tap the power button to quickly refresh the screen. (works on some models)
- Restart your reMarkable tab
- If ghosting stays for too long
- Power off the device
- Wait 10-15 seconds
- Turn it back on
This will reset the screen and the afterimages will disappear.
Does Ghosting affect the reMarkable 2 in the long term?
Actually, this is not a big issue and NO your display is not damaged. It’s perfectly fine. It’s just the way e-ink displays work. Sometimes it takes a moment for the afterimage of the previous screen to fade because E Ink displays have a very low refresh rate. If you want to learn more here is a video on how E-Ink displays work.
Most remarkable users who are facing this issue, might wonder if ghosting can damage the screen in long term. But ghosting is generally a temporary issue and it won’t affect the device. However if –
- Ghosting becomes extremely frequent
- Afterimages remain even after restarts
- Marks never disappear
You should contact reMarkable Support, as this may indicate a rare hardware issue.
Ghost Writing on reMarkable 2 – Causes & Fixes
Another type of ghosting issue is Ghostwriting, you might see this when your marker writes on the screen without touching it.
First Check the following –
Step 1 – Check Touchscreen Response:
Use your finger to write something on the page. If it works normally, the issue is pen related. If it doesn’t, it’s a possible screen issue.
Step 2 – Check Pen Settings:
If the pen color is set to white or the eraser is selected, it might seem like nothing is appearing on the white background. Make sure to select a different pen color black is preferable.
Step 3 – Inspect the Marker
- Check the tip of the marker for damage.
- Clean the Marker Tip to remove dust and dirt.
- Replace the Marker Tip with a new one.
Wrapping Up
Ghosting can be pretty distracting while reading, but it is a limitation that comes with e-ink screen due to their low refresh rate. It is harmless and easy to fix with a quick refresh or restart.
Your display is not damaged, and you don’t need to worry unless ghosting becomes permanent. For most users, this is a minor and manageable issue. If it gets worse you can contact reMarkable support.
I hope this guide helped and if you have any questions feel free to ask in the comments section.
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