Apple MacBook Air 2020: Retina Display still uses PWM

[Redaktion]

Similar to the previous model, Apple once again uses PWM to control the background illumination of the new 2020 MacBook Air. The frequency is very high, but sensitive users should test the laptop if possible.

https://www.notebookcheck.net/Apple-MacBook-Air-2020-Retina-Display-still-uses-PWM.459581.0.html

[chillfox]

On the one hand 117 000 Hz is nothing compared to mindblowing agressive 200Hz on OLED screenns. On the other hand Apple laptops are one of rare cases when consumer are not involved in some kind panel manufacturer roulette. Expecations are high, it should be premium in every way.

[jeremy]

On the one hand 117 000 Hz is nothing compared to mindblowing agressive 200Hz on OLED screenns. On the other hand Apple laptops are one of rare cases when consumer are not involved in some kind panel manufacturer roulette. Expecations are high, it should be premium in every way.

AFAIK, it's not a full 0-100-0-100 PWM pulse, rather a bit of waviness around the selected brightness level, likely from a boost/buck setup and inadequate filtering.

That being said, I do agree.

[Klaus Hinum]

it's not 0-100 but alternates between different brightness steps - that change over time. The flickering therefore should not be that bad as some other PWM and as mentioned before OLED screens, but still it's not a flicker less screen. We already had readers feedback that got eye strain from this flickering in Apple laptops, so be aware if you are counting yourself to this small user group.