How To Run A Dead Pixel Test
- Clean the display first so dust and fingerprints do not look like pixel defects.
- Set the screen brightness high enough to see the panel clearly, especially on white and black.
- Open each fullscreen color one at a time and inspect the center, edges, and corners.
- Check at a normal viewing distance first, then move closer if you notice a suspicious dot.
- Repeat the test on white, black, red, green, and blue before deciding whether the panel has a real issue.
What Each Test Color Reveals
- White screen: reveals dead or dim pixels that stay dark.
- Black screen: reveals bright stuck pixels and can also help expose glow or bleed.
- Red screen: reveals stuck green or blue subpixels.
- Green screen: reveals weak or dead green subpixels.
- Blue screen: reveals weak or dead blue subpixels.
Dead Pixel Vs Stuck Pixel
A dead pixel usually appears black on every test color because it no longer lights up. A stuck pixel still responds partially, but one subpixel can remain trapped on a single color channel.
That is why a stuck pixel might disappear on one background and become obvious on another. Testing multiple fullscreen colors is the fastest way to tell the difference.
Tips For Phones, Laptops, And Monitors
Phones and tablets often need higher brightness because their screens are smaller, while desktop monitors are easier to inspect from a standard sitting distance.
On larger monitors and TVs, pay special attention to the corners and outer edges because defects and uniformity issues are often easier to spot there.
- Laptop: check from your usual work position first.
- Phone: rotate the device if a mark might actually be dust or a scratch.
- Monitor or TV: test in a dim room for easier contrast inspection.
What To Do If You Find A Bad Pixel
If you find a dead or stuck pixel on a new device, document it immediately with photos and check the seller or manufacturer policy while you are still inside the return window.
Some brands allow a small number of defective pixels before warranty replacement, so saving evidence early is useful.
What is the difference between a dead pixel and a stuck pixel?
A dead pixel usually stays dark on every color. A stuck pixel is still active but gets trapped on one subpixel color, so it can look red, green, blue, cyan, or another bright dot depending on the background.
Which colors should I use for a dead pixel test?
Use white, black, red, green, and blue at minimum. White often reveals dark pixels, black reveals bright stuck pixels, and red, green, and blue help isolate subpixel faults.
Should I clean the screen before testing?
Yes. Dust and lint can look like dead pixels from a distance. Wipe the screen first, then inspect it again with fullscreen colors.
Can this page fix a stuck pixel?
No. This page is for detection, not repair. If you find a stuck pixel, you can try device-safe recovery methods separately, but results vary by panel type and age.
How close should I sit during the test?
Start at your normal viewing distance, then move closer only if needed. Looking too close immediately can make normal dust or panel texture easier to confuse with real pixel faults.