Detect dead pixels, stuck pixels, and display defects with testing patterns.
Clean your screen to remove dust and smudges
Set your screen brightness to maximum
Test in a dark room for best results
Use fullscreen mode when prompted
Understanding the difference between pixel defect types helps you identify issues accurately and choose the right fix method.
Quick Answer:
Dead pixels are permanently black spots that cannot be fixed (0% success rate). They result from complete transistor failure.
Stuck pixels show a constant color (red, green, blue, or white) and can often be repaired with software tools (60-80% success rate) or gentle pressure (50-70% success rate).
Hot pixels are always bright white, a specific type of stuck pixel where all three sub-pixels are stuck "on."
A permanently black spot on your screen that appears dark across all colors and patterns
Your options: Since dead pixels result from complete transistor failure, repair attempts rarely succeed. Consider warranty claims or professional screen replacement if the defects are significant. Many users accept 1-2 dead pixels near screen edges.
A single colored dot that displays constant color regardless of screen content
Good news: Stuck pixels can often be fixed! Try our Stuck Pixel Fixer tool which rapidly cycles colors to unstick the transistor. This works in 60-80% of cases. Always try repair methods before assuming a stuck pixel is permanent.
A specific type of stuck pixel that appears as a bright white dot
Note: Hot pixels are less common than single-color stuck pixels but significantly more noticeable on OLED/AMOLED displays where true blacks make them stand out prominently.
| Defect Type | Appearance | Receives Power | Can Be Fixed | Common Causes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dead Pixel | Always black | No | Rarely (0% software) | Power failure, transistor death, manufacturing defect |
| Stuck Pixel | One color (R/G/B) | Yes | Often (60-80%) | Sub-pixel transistor stuck, temporary electrical state |
| Hot Pixel | Always white | Yes | Sometimes (50-70%) | All three sub-pixels stuck on, sensor malfunction |
Quick tip: If you found a colored dot (red, green, blue, or white), you likely have a stuck pixel with good fix potential (60-80% success rate). Black dots are dead pixels with near-zero fix rates. Use the test tool above to confirm your pixel type, then try our repair methods if you have stuck pixels.
Both dead pixels and stuck pixels have distinct causes. Understanding why each type occurs helps you protect your screens, catch problems early, and know when repair is possible.
Quick Answer:
Dead pixels result from manufacturing defects (microscopic errors), physical damage (pressure/impact), electrical failures (transistor death), or thermal stress (0-35°C operating range exceeded).
Stuck pixels occur from temporary electrical charge accumulation on transistor gates - fixable in 60-80% of cases. Try our repair tool.
Prevention: Avoid screen pressure, manage heat, use surge protectors, transport carefully, and test devices within return windows.
Microscopic errors during production that create dead pixels
Impact, pressure, and handling damage to displays
Power delivery failures and transistor degradation
Heat damage and temperature-related pixel failures
Stuck pixels differ fundamentally from dead pixels. While dead pixels have severed electrical connections, stuck pixels have intact circuitry with transistors locked in the "on" position. This electrical nature makes them repairable in 60-80% of cases using software repair tools.
Each pixel contains thin-film transistors (TFTs) that control voltage to red, green, and blue sub-pixels. When electrical charges accumulate on the transistor gate, they can hold it in the "on" position even when display signals try to turn it off. Think of it like a light switch that gets stuck flipped up.
This charge buildup happens for several reasons. Power surges create voltage spikes that leave residual charges on the gate electrode. Static electricity during manufacturing can pre-charge gates before the display even ships. Some transistor materials are more susceptible to charge retention than others, particularly in budget displays with lower-grade components.
Temperature fluctuations contribute too. Thermal expansion and contraction can temporarily alter transistor behavior, creating opportunities for charges to accumulate. That's why stuck pixels sometimes appear after a device sits in a cold car overnight or runs hot during intensive gaming sessions.
Not all stuck pixels are created equal. Temporary stuck pixels have accumulated charges that can be dislodged through rapid voltage cycling (the core principle behind repair tools). The electrical "jiggling" from rapid color changes shakes loose the built-up charges, freeing the transistor gate.
Permanent stuck pixels occur when the transistor gate itself is physically deformed or the gate dielectric layer degrades. In these cases, the stuck state isn't from temporary charge accumulation but from structural damage to the transistor. No amount of voltage cycling will fix a physically damaged gate.
Age plays a critical role in fixability. Recent stuck pixels (appearing within days or weeks) are usually temporary charge issues and respond well to repair tools. Long-standing stuck pixels (months to years old) often indicate permanent transistor degradation and have lower success rates. Power cycling—leaving the display off for 24-48 hours—helps temporary stuck pixels by allowing charges to dissipate naturally.
Key distinction: Dead pixels have no power (broken circuit), while stuck pixels have constant power (locked transistor). This is why software repair tools work for stuck pixels but fail on dead pixels—you can't cycle voltage through a severed connection.
While you can't prevent all dead pixels—especially manufacturing defects—you can significantly reduce the risk of damage-related failures.
Don't press hard on screens or store objects against laptop lids. Transport monitors in original packaging when possible.
Keep screens ventilated, avoid direct sunlight exposure, and don't block vents on monitors or laptops during use.
Use protective cases for devices, pad monitors during moves, and avoid extreme temperature changes in storage.
Use microfiber cloths, avoid harsh chemicals, and never spray liquid directly on screens. Gentle circular motions only.
While dead pixels are mostly unavoidable (manufacturing defects or physical damage), stuck pixels can be prevented with electrical stability practices:
Worth remembering: Test new devices within the return window (typically 14-30 days). Manufacturing defects usually appear immediately, and early detection gives you the best shot at warranty replacement or return.
Based on your test results, here's exactly what to do next. Stuck pixels can often be repaired, dead pixels typically require warranty claims, and hot pixels may respond to the same repair tools as stuck pixels.
Quick Answer:
Stuck pixels (colored dots): Try our free repair tool first—60-80% success rate. Takes 10 minutes to 8 hours depending on severity.
Dead pixels (black dots): Cannot be repaired with software. Check your warranty coverage or return policy if device is new.
Hot pixels (always white): Use the same repair tool as stuck pixels—50-70% success rate with rapid color cycling.
Great news—stuck pixels can often be fixed! Our free online tool uses rapid color cycling to unstick frozen transistors.
Works on monitors, laptops, phones, tablets • No downloads required • Runs in your browser
Start repair now • Most pixels fix in 10-30 minutes • Extend to 1-8 hours for stubborn cases
Dead pixels cannot be repaired with software or physical techniques. Your options are warranty claims, returns, or professional screen replacement.
Dead pixels receive no electrical power due to severed transistor connections. No amount of color flashing or pressure will restore a broken electrical circuit. Success rates for dead pixel repair are below 5%.
Stuck pixels vs dead pixels: Stuck pixels show color because they still receive power—just frozen in one state. Dead pixels are completely dark because the power connection is broken.
Check Your Warranty Coverage
See our detailed warranty policy guide below for manufacturer-specific standards. Many brands cover dead pixels if they exceed a certain threshold.
Return If Within Window
Most retailers offer 14-30 day return windows. If you're within that period, return or exchange the device regardless of warranty policy.
Professional Screen Replacement
Costs $150-$500 depending on device. Only worth it for high-value displays. Compare repair cost vs. device replacement value.
Hot pixels are similar to stuck pixels but frozen in the "on" position (white). The same repair tools work well for hot pixels.
Success rate: 50-70% — Slightly lower than regular stuck pixels because all three sub-pixels are stuck simultaneously, but still very fixable with rapid color cycling techniques.
Recommended approach: Start with 10-30 minutes on our fixer tool. Hot pixels often require longer sessions (2-4 hours) compared to single-color stuck pixels.
Overview of different repair approaches and their effectiveness. For detailed instructions, visit our Stuck Pixel Fixer tool.
| Method | Success Rate | Time Required | Risk Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Repair Tools | 60-80% | 10 min - 8 hours | Very Low | Stuck pixels (colored dots) |
| Gentle Pressure | 40-60% | 5-15 minutes | Medium | Stuck pixels near edges |
| Power Cycling | 20-40% | 24-48 hours | Very Low | Recent stuck pixels |
| Warranty Claim | Varies | 1-3 weeks | None | Multiple defects or center screen |
Need detailed repair instructions? Visit our Stuck Pixel Fixer tool for step-by-step guidance, safety tips, and device-specific recommendations.
Warranty coverage for dead pixels varies wildly by manufacturer. Dell, ASUS, LG, Samsung, Apple, and others all have different policies on acceptable defect levels. Some replace monitors with a single bright pixel, others require 3-5 defects.
See our complete warranty guide below for 12+ major manufacturers, ISO 13406-2 standards, and tips for successful warranty claims.
Each device type has unique testing considerations. Screen technology, pixel density, and usage patterns all affect how you should test for defects.
Quick Answer:
Monitors & laptops: Test in dark room at 100% brightness, disable adaptive sync/auto-brightness, clean screen first.
Smartphones & tablets: Remove screen protectors, disable auto-brightness and filters (Night Shift, True Tone), test in full-screen mode.
TVs & projectors: Test from normal viewing distance—defects invisible from 10 feet may not matter. TVs often require 5+ defects for warranty claims.
Regardless of device type, these principles apply to all dead pixel testing. Use our pixel test tool above to check your screen.
OLED and LCD technologies show dead pixels differently, which affects your testing approach:
LCD Screens
Dead pixels always appear black because the backlight still shines but the pixel can't change the light. Test with white, gray, and colored backgrounds.
OLED Screens
Dead pixels appear black on all colors since each pixel emits its own light. When the pixel dies, it produces no light at all. Also watch for burn-in (image retention), which is different from dead pixels.
Found defects? Here's how to interpret your results and decide on the best course of action based on defect count, location, and type.
Quick Answer:
0 defects: Healthy screen—test annually and follow prevention tips.
1-3 defects: Common scenario. Try repair methods (60-80% success for stuck pixels). Check warranty if center-screen or dead pixels.
4+ defects or clusters: Immediate warranty claim required. Document with photos and contact manufacturer within 24-48 hours.
Excellent condition • No action needed
Congratulations! You didn't spot any dead or stuck pixels during testing. Your screen is in excellent condition. Most quality displays go years without developing pixel defects.
Recommended next steps:
Common scenario • Repair attempts recommended
Finding one to three pixel defects is actually common, even on new devices. Manufacturers often consider this acceptable under ISO 13406-2 standards, especially if defects are near screen edges.
What matters most is defect type and location. Stuck pixels (colored dots) have 60-80% fix success rates with software repair tools. Dead pixels (black dots) rarely recover but may be acceptable depending on where they sit. Center-screen defects are more noticeable than edge defects.
Recommended action plan:
Living with minor defects: Many users adapt to 1-2 edge pixels within weeks. Your brain learns to filter them out. Center-screen defects are harder to ignore, especially for photo editing or design work.
Serious issue • Immediate action required
Finding four or more defective pixels, especially if they cluster together, signals a more serious problem. This often indicates manufacturing defects or systematic failure rather than isolated transistor issues.
Clustered defects—multiple dead pixels grouped in one area—suggest physical damage (impact, pressure) or a failed component in that screen region. Unlike isolated defects, clusters rarely improve with software fixes.
Take immediate action:
Don't wait: Multiple defects often qualify for warranty service even under strict policies. Most manufacturers replace or repair displays with 4+ defects, especially if documented properly with test results.
Identify pixel type
Colored dot (red/green/blue/white) = Stuck pixel → Try repair methods
Black dot = Dead pixel → Check warranty first
Assess severity
1-3 pixels near edges = Try fixes, may be acceptable
1-3 center screen = Try fixes, then warranty if persistent
4+ pixels or clusters = Warranty claim immediately
Check timing
Within return window (14-30 days) = Return/exchange for any defects
Past return window = Follow warranty policy (see guide below)
Out of warranty = Try repair methods or professional service
Take action
Document with photos → Try appropriate repair method → Test again → If unsuccessful, proceed with warranty claim or accept defect
ISO 13406-2 standards define pixel defect classes. Most consumer displays fall into Class II, which allows:
Class I (Premium)
0 defects of any type
Class II (Standard)
Up to 2 bright + 5 dark defects
Class III (Budget)
Up to 5 bright + 15 dark defects
Note: Individual manufacturer policies often exceed ISO standards. Check the warranty guide below for specific brand requirements.
Based on your test results, follow the recommended action plan below to address your pixel issues or maintain screen health.
Great news—stuck pixels (colored dots) can often be fixed! Our free online tool uses rapid color cycling to unstick frozen transistors. Most users see results within 10-30 minutes, though stubborn cases may need longer sessions.
Safe, proven method • Works on all devices • No downloads required
Dead pixels (black dots) have permanent electrical failure and cannot be fixed with software methods. However, you have warranty and replacement options depending on manufacturer policies and ISO standards.
Check Warranty Status
Most devices have 1-3 year warranties. Check your purchase date and manufacturer warranty terms below.
Review Manufacturer Policies
Different brands have different dead pixel policies. Some require 3-5 dead pixels, others replace after 1. See our warranty guide below.
Contact Support for Replacement
Prepare your test results, purchase info, and photos. Contact manufacturer support to initiate warranty claim or replacement.
Important: Dead pixels cannot be fixed with software. Don't waste time on repair tools—focus on warranty claims or professional screen replacement.
Your screen is in perfect condition! Follow these preventive measures to avoid future pixel defects and maintain optimal display health for years to come.
Understanding the technology behind your screen helps explain why both dead pixels and stuck pixels occur, and why some defects can be fixed while others can't.
Quick Answer:
LCD pixels use backlight + liquid crystals; dead pixels are always black because transistors can't control crystal alignment.
OLED pixels emit their own light; dead pixels produce zero light, appearing black on any background.
Stuck pixels = locked transistor gates (60-80% fixable with rapid voltage cycling). Dead pixels = severed circuits (0% fixable—warranty only).
Liquid crystal displays with backlight-based illumination
Why LCD dead pixels are always black: When a transistor fails, the pixel can't control liquid crystal alignment. Without voltage, the crystal defaults to blocking all light. The backlight still shines behind it, creating a black dot where light should pass through.
Key components: TFT (Thin Film Transistor) layer controls each sub-pixel individually • Backlight provides uniform illumination • Polarizing filters control light direction • Color filters create RGB output
Self-emissive displays with per-pixel illumination
OLED dead pixels behave differently: Since there's no backlight, a dead OLED pixel produces zero light at all times. It appears black on any background—white, colored, or black. This makes OLED dead pixels slightly harder to spot on dark content but easier on bright backgrounds.
OLED-specific issues:
Understanding transistor failures and electrical defects
Each pixel contains three sub-pixels (red, green, blue), and each sub-pixel has its own transistor controlling voltage. Pixel defects happen when something goes wrong in this chain—from the power connection to the transistor gate to the liquid crystal or organic emitter.
Electrical connection breaks completely. No power reaches the transistor or sub-pixel. Results in permanently black pixel on LCD, or zero light output on OLED. Rarely fixable.
Transistor stuck in "on" position, continuously sending voltage. Sub-pixel stays at maximum brightness. Shows as colored or white dot. Sometimes fixable with software.
Transistor gate locks in one state due to electrical charge accumulation. Pixel receives power but won't respond to voltage changes. This is the most common fixable defect—60-80% success with rapid voltage cycling.
Understanding repair mechanisms for stuck vs dead pixels
Why dead pixels rarely recover: True dead pixels have severed electrical connections. No amount of voltage changes will repair a broken circuit—like trying to turn on a light bulb with cut wires. The bulb might be fine, but power can't reach it. Try our repair tool →
Factors affecting repair success probability
Not all stuck pixels respond equally to repair attempts. Success depends on whether the stuck state is temporary (recoverable) or permanent (structural damage).
Time-based success rates: Approximately 60% of fixable stuck pixels respond within the first 10 minutes of rapid cycling. Extending repair to 1 hour brings success rates to 70%. Stubborn cases requiring 6-8 hours of continuous cycling achieve up to 80-85% success. After 8 hours with no improvement, the stuck pixel likely has permanent gate damage and won't respond to software repair.
For deeper technical reading: ISO 13406-2 defines pixel defect standards. VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) publishes display measurement standards. Panel manufacturer white papers (LG Display, Samsung Display, BOE) offer insights into LCD and OLED architecture.
Warranty coverage varies dramatically between brands. Understanding policies before purchase helps you choose displays with consumer-friendly defect standards.
Quick Answer:
Most manufacturers follow ISO Class II: 2 bright + 5 dark pixels allowed (standard consumer policy).
Dell offers best consumer-friendly policy: 1+ bright pixel in center screen qualifies for replacement on UltraSharp models.
Gaming/professional lines have stricter policies than budget models—ASUS ROG Swift (0 defects), Samsung QLED (3+ vs 5+).
Return window (14-30 days) is easier than warranty claims—pursue exchanges first before filing warranty claims.
International standards for acceptable pixel defects
ISO 13406-2 defines international standards for acceptable pixel defects. Most manufacturers reference these classes in their warranty terms, though some exceed them with stricter policies.
| Class | Bright Defects | Dark Defects | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | 0 | 0 | Premium displays, medical imaging |
| Class II | 2 | 5 | Most consumer monitors and laptops |
| Class III | 5 | 15 | Budget displays |
| Class IV | 50 | 150 | Industrial/non-critical displays |
Note: Bright defects are stuck pixels (colored dots). Dark defects are dead pixels (black dots). Class II is standard for most consumer electronics.
Desktop and external display warranty policies
Policy Summary
1 bright pixel center screen
Defect Threshold
1+ bright or 6+ dim/dark
Premium Panel Guarantee on select UltraSharp models. Varies by product line.
Policy Summary
Depends on model tier
Defect Threshold
3+ defects standard, 0 on ROG Swift
Gaming monitors (ROG series) have stricter policies than budget models.
Policy Summary
3+ defects within warranty
Defect Threshold
3 bright or 3 dark total
UltraGear gaming monitors may have different thresholds. Check specific model policy.
Policy Summary
Varies by display type
Defect Threshold
5+ defects standard, 3+ on QLED
QLED and Odyssey gaming line have better policies than standard monitors.
Policy Summary
3+ defects
Defect Threshold
3 bright or 5 dark pixels
Professional line (SW series) has stricter defect tolerance.
Policy Summary
ISO Class II standard
Defect Threshold
2 bright + 5 dark allowed
Predator gaming line may offer better coverage. Check model-specific policy.
Policy Summary
ISO Class II standard
Defect Threshold
2 bright + 5 dark allowed
Professional graphics monitors (VP/VG series) may have tighter standards.
Integrated display warranty policies for laptops and tablets
Policy Summary
Case-by-case evaluation
No published pixel count threshold. Genius Bar assesses visibility and impact. Within 14-day return window, exchanges are easier.
Policy Summary
Premium Panel Exchange (select models)
XPS and Latitude lines: Similar to monitor policy (1+ bright pixel). Inspiron: Standard ISO limits apply.
Policy Summary
3+ defects
ThinkPad and Legion lines. Manufacturing defects covered within standard warranty period.
Policy Summary
Depends on product tier
Elite/Envy: Better coverage. Pavilion/Stream: Standard ISO limits. Check Care Pack terms.
Policy Summary
Warranty assessment
No published threshold. Support evaluates on case basis. Microsoft Store purchases have easier exchange within 60 days.
Maximize your chances with proper timing and documentation
Timing and documentation make the difference between successful warranty claims and denials. Follow these guidelines to maximize your chances.
Best practices for getting warranty claims approved
Policy accuracy note: Manufacturer warranty policies change periodically. This guide reflects policies as of 2025. Always verify current terms with the manufacturer before purchase or when filing claims. Some policies vary by region—check your local warranty documentation.
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about dead pixels, stuck pixels, repair methods, and warranty policies.
Still have questions? The information above covers the most common scenarios, but every situation is unique. Review our detailed guides above for in-depth explanations of pixel defects, repair methods, and warranty policies.
