Binocular Rivalry Experiment
An innovative, experimental test that captures imagery ability via a perceptual effect rather than self-assessment. Based on the scientific priming effect in binocular rivalry.
- Experimental
- No account needed
- Perception-based
Start the Binocular Rivalry Experiment
Allow yourself 15 minutes in a quiet environment. Make sure you can distinguish colors well.
Estimated duration: approx. 15 min
Binocular Rivalry Experiment
This experimental test measures whether your mental visualization has an objective effect on your perception. Unlike the other tests, it is not based on self-assessment.
How the test works:
- 1Close your eyes and imagine the displayed color (red or blue)
- 2A sound will signal when to open your eyes
- 3Quickly look at the pattern and note which color dominates
- 4Respond as quickly and honestly as possible
Developed in-house on the basis of the research literature. Modelled on established instruments, but not independently validated. Not a diagnostic procedure – the results are intended for self-assessment.
Experimental Test
This test is based on current research and is a simplified web version of the scientific binocular rivalry paradigm. Results may be less precise than in a laboratory setting.
What is the Binocular Rivalry test?
The Binocular Rivalry test is an experimental approach that captures imagery ability via a perceptual effect rather than self-assessment. Unlike questionnaires like the VVIQ, it does not rely on self-report — but so far only the group comparison is robust, not the classification of individuals (Monzel et al. 2025).
In binocular rivalry, different images are shown to each eye. Instead of merging both images, the brain alternates between them. The test uses this effect to measure how strongly your mental imagery influences your perception.
Research has shown that people with strong imagery ability more frequently perceive a color they've mentally imagined during binocular rivalry. This 'priming effect' enables measurement that is independent of self-assessment — though the effect size is small.
Experimental Test
This test is based on current research and is not as established as the VVIQ. Results should be considered supplementary information, not a definitive diagnosis.
The science behind it
The priming effect
When you imagine a color, this 'primes' your visual system. In people with strong imagery, this causes them to perceive that color more frequently afterward.
Binocular rivalry
When each eye is shown a different image, the brain alternates between both images. This switching can be influenced by prior mental imagery.
How the test works
- Color calibrationFirst, we check your color perception with simple color tests.
- Imagine a colorYou'll be asked to intensely imagine a specific color (red or blue).
- View rivalry patternThen you'll see a special pattern where both colors compete.
- Report perceptionYou indicate which color you perceive as dominant.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly does this test measure?
The test measures how strongly your mental imagery influences your visual perception. A strong priming effect indicates vivid imagery, while a weak effect could indicate aphantasia.
Why is this test more objective?
Unlike questionnaires, this test is not based on your self-assessment but on a measurable behavioral effect. This makes it less susceptible to subjective bias.
Is this test scientifically validated?
The test is based on peer-reviewed research on binocular rivalry and the priming effect. However, it's not as broadly validated as the VVIQ and should be considered a supplementary tool.
What requirements do I need?
You need a computer or tablet with a sufficiently large screen. Color blindness can affect results – the test therefore begins with color calibration.
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