Why check for dead pixels?
Whether you just unboxed a new monitor, bought a used laptop, or noticed something odd on your phone, checking for dead pixels should be one of the first things you do. Most manufacturers have a dead pixel policy that requires a certain number of defects before they accept a return or warranty claim. Catching them early gives you the best chance of a replacement.
What you need
You do not need any special equipment. All you need is a way to display solid colors on your full screen. Our Dead Pixel Test does exactly that with one click.
Step by step
Step 1: Clean your screen. Dust and smudges can look like dead pixels. Use a microfiber cloth and gentle wiping motions.
Step 2: Set your screen brightness to maximum. Dead and stuck pixels are harder to spot at low brightness levels.
Step 3: Open the Dead Pixel Test and enter fullscreen. Start with a pure white background.
Step 4: Examine every area of the screen carefully. Move your eyes slowly across the display. Look for any tiny dots that are not white.
Step 5: Cycle through colors. Switch to red, green, blue, and black backgrounds. A dead pixel will appear as a black dot on every color. A stuck pixel will show its true color on the black background.
Step 6: Document what you find. Note the location and type of any defective pixels. Take photos if possible, as this helps with warranty claims.
Common mistakes
People often confuse dust on the screen surface with dead pixels. Press gently near the suspicious spot. If it moves or disappears, it was just debris. Also, make sure your screen is at full brightness. Many perceived dead pixels are actually just hard to see at lower brightness settings.
What to do if you find dead pixels
If your display is new and under warranty, check the manufacturer dead pixel policy. Some brands like Dell replace monitors with even one dead pixel. Others, like many budget brands, require 3 to 5 dead pixels before they will issue a replacement.
For stuck pixels (colored dots), try our Stuck Pixel Fixer tool before requesting a return. It rapidly cycles colors at the stuck pixel location and has a reasonable success rate.