Dead Pixel Test: Free Full-Screen Check for Any Screen

Which one do you have?

Dead (dark) pixel

All three color parts of the pixel are permanently off, so it shows as a black dot on every color. See fixes

Bright or stuck pixel

Stays lit (white or a color) even on a black screen. See fixes

Fixes to try (easiest first)

1. Clean the screen first

   Dust can look like a pixel fault. Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth, liquid on the cloth only. [2]

2. Run the screen test

   Use our full-screen test and check each solid color. A dead pixel has all its parts off, so it stays dark on every color. A bright pixel has all its parts on, so it stays lit even on black. [1]

3. Try pixel-fixing software for a stuck pixel

   ⚠ Risky: only try this if you are comfortable, and not on a device still under warranty.

   These tools flash colors rapidly over the pixel, for 30 minutes to several hours. They are meant for stuck pixels; many cases still need a repair or new screen. Don't use flashing tools if flashing light could affect you. [2]

4. Check your manufacturer's pixel policy

   Manufacturers allow a set number of faulty pixels before they'll replace a screen, and only during the warranty period. Dell's UltraSharp monitors, for example, allow 0 bright pixels and up to 5 dark subpixels. [1]

Is it worth fixing?

A single dead pixel is often below the number a manufacturer will replace a screen for. Count them, check your model's pixel policy while it's under warranty, and decide whether it actually bothers you before paying for a new panel.

Repair or replace? Try the calculator · Not sure this is your problem? Take the quiz

Common questions

What's the difference between a dead pixel and a stuck pixel?

A dead pixel has all three subpixels permanently off, so it's black. A stuck pixel stays on, showing white or a color.

Are dead pixels covered by warranty?

Only during the warranty period, and only if the number of faulty pixels is above the manufacturer's allowance for that model.