Free tool
Dead Pixel Test: Check Your Monitor in 60 Seconds
Fill your screen with solid colors to spot dead or stuck pixels on a new monitor or laptop, ideally while you can still return it.
This free tool fills your whole screen with solid colors, one at a time, so a dead or stuck pixel stands out against the background. Run it on a new monitor or laptop before the return window closes, and on an older screen to tell a dead pixel from a speck of dust or a smudge.
What it does
Fills your whole screen with solid colors, one at a time, so a dead or stuck pixel stands out.
Who it helps
Anyone who just bought a monitor or laptop and wants to check it before the return window closes.
How to use it
- Clean the screen with a soft dry cloth.
- Click Start full screen test.
- Look closely at each color.
- Press Escape to leave full screen.
In full screen: click, Space or the arrow keys change color. Esc exits. Colors: black, white, red, green, blue, gray.
What your result means
- A dot that stays black on every color is a dead pixel.
- A dot that stays red, green or blue is a stuck pixel. Gentle pressure or a pixel-fixing video sometimes helps.
- A spot that moves when you wipe is dust, not a pixel.
- Found one on a new screen? Check the maker’s pixel policy and your return window. Read the guide
- Nothing found: the panel is fine. Next, check its height. Read the guide
How it works
The tool uses your browser’s Fullscreen feature to fill the whole display with one solid color at a time: black, white, red, green, blue and gray. Defective pixels stand out against a single color. Nothing is installed and nothing is sent anywhere. If full screen is blocked, the color box still works in the page.
Sources
- Manufacturer dead pixel policies (linked in each buying guide where cited)
FAQ
What is the difference between dead and stuck pixels?
A dead pixel stays dark on every color. A stuck pixel stays one color, often red, green or blue.
Will a monitor maker replace a monitor for one dead pixel?
It depends on the maker’s pixel policy. Check it and your store’s return window soon after buying.
Can I fix a stuck pixel?
Sometimes. Gentle pressure or flashing colors may help, but results vary and dead pixels usually cannot be fixed.