A mismatch between the source’s RGB range and the display’s expected range can make blacks look grey or hide shadow detail. Full and limited describe signal coding ranges, not a universal quality ranking. The source and display should interpret the selected range consistently.
Recognise the two directions
If one end expects a different range, dark and bright values can be mapped incorrectly. One mismatch raises black into grey; the other can clip near-black or near-white information. Similar symptoms can also come from picture settings, so do not assume range is the only explanation without a comparison.
Use automatic or documented matching
Start with the devices’ supported automatic settings if available. If changing manually, record both ends and use a trusted test pattern or familiar scene with dark texture and bright detail. Do not set full everywhere merely because the word sounds superior; video and computer paths can have different expectations.
Keep brightness controls separate
Adjusting the television’s brightness or contrast may partly disguise a range mismatch while causing other problems. Establish correct signal interpretation first, then fine-tune the picture. Check each input independently because televisions may remember different settings for a game console, streaming box and built-in applications.
