Dead Pixel Test
Check your monitor for dead, stuck, or hot pixels with a full-screen color cycle test.
Cycles through all colors automatically · Click or press Space for next · ESC to exit
What is a Dead Pixel Test?
A dead pixel test displays solid colors across your entire screen to help you spot pixels that aren't working correctly. By cycling through different colors, you can identify dead pixels (always black), stuck pixels (always one color), and hot pixels (always bright).
This test is essential when buying a new monitor, TV, laptop, or phone — run it before your return window closes!
How to Use This Test
Clean your screen first
Dust and smudges can look like dead pixels. Wipe your screen with a microfiber cloth.
Click "Start Full Pixel Test"
Your screen will go fullscreen white. Click or press any key to cycle to the next color.
Scan your entire screen slowly
Look carefully at each area. Move your eyes in a grid pattern — don't just glance. Defective pixels are tiny.
Check all colors
Different pixel defects show on different colors. A complete test uses white, black, red, green, blue, and more.
Types of Pixel Defects
⚫ Dead Pixel
Appears as a tiny black dot on every color. The pixel is completely non-functional and cannot display any light. Usually permanent and cannot be fixed.
🔴 Stuck Pixel
Shows as a colored dot (red, green, or blue) that doesn't change. One or two sub-pixels are stuck "on." Sometimes fixable with pixel-exercising tools or gentle massage.
⚪ Hot Pixel
Always appears white or very bright regardless of displayed color. All sub-pixels are stuck on maximum. Common in cameras but can occur on displays too.
🌑 Sub-pixel Defect
Only one color component (R, G, or B) is dead. May only be visible on certain colors. Less noticeable than a full dead pixel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dead pixels be fixed?
True dead pixels are usually permanent — the transistor has failed. However, stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed by running "pixel exerciser" videos that rapidly flash colors, or by very gently massaging the area with a soft cloth. Success rate is around 20-50% for stuck pixels.
How many dead pixels is acceptable?
Most manufacturers allow 1-5 dead pixels before honoring a warranty claim, depending on their policy. However, many retailers (especially for high-end monitors) offer zero dead pixel guarantees. Check your warranty terms.
Why test with multiple colors?
Each pixel has three sub-pixels (Red, Green, Blue). A defect might only affect one sub-pixel, making it visible only on certain colors. White and black catch most issues, but RGB colors help identify partial defects.
Should I test a new monitor before using it?
Absolutely! Test within your return window (usually 14-30 days). Dead pixels can be grounds for return even if not covered by warranty. It's much easier to exchange before you've set everything up.
Is it normal for pixels to appear during warm-up?
Some displays show temporary stuck pixels when cold that disappear after warming up (15-30 minutes). If a "dead" pixel goes away after use, it was likely temperature-related, not a true defect.
Related Screen Tools
More tools to test and use your display.