Dead Pixel Test
Fill your screen with solid colors to find dead, stuck or hot pixels — on monitors, laptops, TVs and phones.
How to check a screen for dead pixels
- Clean the screen gently so dust is not mistaken for a pixel.
- Press Start full-screen test and set the display to full brightness.
- Click, tap or press the arrow keys to move through each solid color.
- Scan the whole screen slowly, section by section, from a normal viewing distance.
Dead, stuck and hot pixels
- Dead pixel – always black; easy to see on white, red, green and blue.
- Stuck pixel – always one color; easy to see on black.
- Hot pixel – always white; easy to see on black.
Test new monitors and phones as soon as they arrive — many stores and manufacturers only replace screens with pixel faults within a short window. While you are at it, check your screen resolution, refresh rate and webcam.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dead pixel?
A dead pixel stays black on every color because it receives no power. It is easiest to spot on a white or bright screen.
What is a stuck pixel?
A stuck pixel stays one color — often red, green or blue — no matter what is on screen. It shows up best on black or on a different solid color.
How do I run the test?
Click Start full-screen test, then click, tap or press the arrow keys to switch colors. Look closely at each color for dots that do not match. Press Esc to exit.
Can a stuck pixel be fixed?
Sometimes. Gently massaging the spot with a soft cloth while the screen is off, or leaving a rapidly changing video playing over it, can revive a stuck pixel. Dead pixels usually cannot be fixed.
How do I check for backlight bleed?
Use the black screen in a dark room at full brightness. Light leaking from the edges or corners is backlight bleed.
How many dead pixels are acceptable?
It depends on the manufacturer. Many monitors allow a few before a warranty replacement, so check your brand’s pixel policy and test new screens early.