🎨 Start Dead Pixel Test
Click the button below to enter fullscreen mode. The screen will cycle through solid colors. Look carefully for tiny dots that don't change color — those are dead or stuck pixels.
Press ESC to exit • Click or press Space to change color
What Are Dead Pixels?
A dead pixel is a pixel on your screen that no longer functions. It typically appears as a tiny black dot that remains dark regardless of what's being displayed. Dead pixels are caused by manufacturing defects, physical damage, or transistor failure in LCD/OLED panels.
There are three main types of pixel defects:
- Dead Pixels — Always black. The pixel's transistor has completely failed and no light passes through.
- Stuck Pixels — Always one color (red, green, or blue). One or more sub-pixels are permanently on. Stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed.
- Hot Pixels — Always white or bright. All sub-pixels are stuck in the ON position. More common on camera sensors than screens.
How This Test Works
Our dead pixel test fills your entire screen with a single solid color, making it easy to spot pixels that aren't displaying correctly. The test cycles through these colors:
- Red — Reveals dead sub-pixels in the red channel
- Green — Reveals dead sub-pixels in the green channel
- Blue — Reveals dead sub-pixels in the blue channel
- White — Makes dead pixels (black dots) highly visible
- Black — Reveals stuck or hot pixels (bright dots on dark background)
For the best results, clean your screen first and run the test in a dimly lit room. Examine the screen carefully on each color — dead pixels can be very small.
When Should You Test for Dead Pixels?
- Before buying a used laptop — Dead pixels are a common undisclosed defect in second-hand devices
- After receiving a new monitor — Most manufacturers allow returns if dead pixels exceed a threshold
- After a screen repair — Verify the replacement display is defect-free
- Periodically — Pixels can die over time, especially on older displays
💡 Can Dead Pixels Be Fixed?
Dead pixels (always black) are usually permanent and cannot be fixed. Stuck pixels (always one color) can sometimes be fixed using pixel-exercising tools that rapidly flash colors to "unstick" the transistor. Try running our test on repeat for a few minutes on the affected area.
Dead Pixel Policies by Manufacturer
Most laptop and monitor manufacturers have specific policies about dead pixels:
- Dell — Premium Pixel Guarantee on UltraSharp monitors: even 1 dead pixel qualifies for replacement
- Apple — No official dead pixel policy, but AppleCare may cover excessive dead pixels
- ASUS — Zero Bright Dot guarantee on certain models
- HP, Lenovo — Typically allow 3-5 dead pixels before warranty replacement
Always test your screen immediately after purchase. Document any dead pixels with photos for warranty claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dead pixels is acceptable?
Industry standard (ISO 13406-2) classifies displays into quality classes. Class I allows zero defects. Most consumer displays are Class II, allowing up to 2 dead pixels. However, many premium brands now offer zero dead pixel guarantees.
Can dead pixels spread?
Dead pixels don't physically spread, but if the cause is pressure damage or a manufacturing defect, nearby pixels may fail over time. If you notice dead pixels appearing in clusters, it may indicate deeper panel damage.
Does this test work on phones and tablets?
Yes! This test works on any device with a web browser. On phones and tablets, use fullscreen mode for best results. OLED phone screens are especially prone to pixel burn-in rather than dead pixels.