Dead Pixel Test
Click any color button to fill your screen. Look for pixels that don't match the background color.
Click a color button above to test
Press Escape to exit fullscreen
How to Use
- Click a color button to fill the display area
- Click "Fullscreen" to test the entire screen
- Look carefully for any pixels that appear different from the solid color
- Test with all colors - some dead pixels only show on certain colors
What to Look For
- Dead pixel: Always black, regardless of background color
- Stuck pixel: Always one color (often red, green, or blue)
- Hot pixel: Always white or bright
What This Test Checks
The dead pixel test displays full-screen solid colors so you can visually inspect every pixel on your monitor, laptop screen, or mobile display. It helps identify three types of pixel defects:
- Dead pixels – permanently off transistors that appear as tiny black dots on any background
- Stuck pixels – sub-pixels locked in an on state, showing a persistent red, green, or blue dot
- Hot pixels – pixels that always appear white or abnormally bright compared to surrounding pixels
- Sub-pixel defects – partial pixel failures visible only on specific color backgrounds
Troubleshooting
If you're having issues with the test or your display:
- Clean your screen first with a microfiber cloth to rule out dust or smudges that may look like dead pixels
- Adjust your screen brightness to maximum for the most accurate inspection
- If fullscreen mode doesn't activate, try clicking the display area first, or use your browser's native fullscreen shortcut (F11)
- Test in a dimly lit room to make faint stuck pixels easier to spot
- If you find a stuck pixel, try running a pixel-cycling video for several hours to attempt a fix
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dead pixels be fixed?
Stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed by running pixel-cycling software or gently massaging the affected area with a soft cloth. True dead pixels, however, are caused by permanent transistor failure and cannot be repaired without replacing the display panel.
What is the difference between a dead pixel and a stuck pixel?
A dead pixel is permanently off and appears black on every color background. A stuck pixel is permanently on and displays a single color (usually red, green, or blue) regardless of the image being shown. Stuck pixels are more likely to be fixable than dead pixels.
How many dead pixels are acceptable on a new monitor?
Most manufacturers follow the ISO 13406-2 standard, which allows a small number of dead pixels depending on the panel class. For Class II panels (most consumer monitors), up to 2 dead pixels are considered acceptable. Many premium brands offer zero-dead-pixel warranties.
Why should I test with multiple colors?
Each pixel is made up of red, green, and blue sub-pixels. A defect may only affect one sub-pixel, making it visible only on certain color backgrounds. Testing with red, green, blue, white, and black ensures you catch all types of pixel defects.
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