Dead vs Stuck Pixels

Dead and stuck pixels are common screen problems that can be annoying or distracting. This guide explains the difference, how to identify each type, and methods to fix stuck pixels.

You can use the online screen test to identify dead or stuck pixels on your display.

Quick Fix Summary

• Test your screen with solid colors to identify pixel problems
• Dead pixels are black and cannot be fixed
• Stuck pixels are colored and may respond to repair methods
• Try pressure method or pixel repair software for stuck pixels
• Check warranty coverage for dead pixels
• Test new screens immediately to catch issues early

Why This Happens

Dead pixels occur when a pixel's transistor fails completely. The pixel cannot receive power or display any color, resulting in a permanently black dot. This is usually a manufacturing defect or component failure.

Stuck pixels occur when a pixel's subpixel (red, green, or blue) gets stuck in the "on" position. The pixel displays a single color continuously instead of changing with the image. This can sometimes be fixed by stimulating the pixel.

Manufacturing processes aren't perfect. Even high-quality screens can have pixel defects. Most manufacturers have policies allowing a certain number of dead pixels before considering a screen defective.

Age and use can cause pixels to fail over time. While less common than manufacturing defects, pixels can die or get stuck as screens age.

Step-by-Step Identification

What Are Dead Pixels?

Dead pixels are permanently black and cannot display any color. They appear as black dots on your screen regardless of what's being displayed.

Dead pixels occur when a pixel's transistor fails completely. The pixel cannot receive power, so it remains off (black) at all times. This is a permanent hardware failure.

Test for dead pixels using the online screen test. Display solid colors like white, red, green, and blue. Dead pixels appear as black dots that don't change color.

Dead pixels cannot be fixed. They require screen replacement if they're bothersome. Most manufacturers have warranty policies covering multiple dead pixels.

What Are Stuck Pixels?

Stuck pixels are stuck on a single color, usually red, green, or blue. They appear as colored dots that don't change with the image.

Stuck pixels occur when a subpixel gets stuck in the "on" position. Each pixel has red, green, and blue subpixels. If one subpixel gets stuck, the pixel displays that color continuously.

Test for stuck pixels using the online screen test. Display different solid colors. Stuck pixels appear as colored dots (red, green, or blue) that don't match the background.

Stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed using pressure methods or pixel repair software. They're not always permanent like dead pixels.

How to Test for Pixel Problems

Use the online screen test to identify dead or stuck pixels. The test displays solid colors that make pixel problems easy to see.

• Open the online screen test
• Enter fullscreen mode for best results
• Cycle through solid colors: black, white, red, green, blue
• Look for pixels that don't match the background
• Dead pixels appear black on colored backgrounds
• Stuck pixels appear as colored dots on backgrounds

Test each color thoroughly. Move close to the screen to see individual pixels clearly. Use the pixel check mode for detailed inspection.

Note the location and type of any pixel problems. This information helps determine if pixels can be fixed or if warranty coverage applies.

Fixing Stuck Pixels - Pressure Method

The pressure method can sometimes fix stuck pixels by stimulating the pixel's components. This method works by applying gentle pressure to the stuck pixel.

• Turn off your screen
• Locate the stuck pixel
• Wrap a soft cloth around a pen or similar object
• Apply gentle pressure directly to the stuck pixel
• Hold pressure for 10-15 seconds
• Release and turn screen back on
• Test if the pixel is fixed

Be careful not to apply too much pressure. Excessive force can damage the screen. Use a soft cloth to protect the screen surface.

This method may need to be repeated several times. Some stuck pixels respond immediately, while others require multiple attempts.

If the pressure method doesn't work, try pixel repair software. See the guide on how to fix stuck pixels for detailed repair methods.

Fixing Stuck Pixels - Software Methods

Pixel repair software flashes rapid color changes to stimulate stuck pixels. This method can fix pixels that don't respond to pressure.

• Download pixel repair software (many free options available)
• Position the repair window over the stuck pixel
• Run the repair sequence for 10-30 minutes
• Test the pixel after repair
• Repeat if necessary

Pixel repair software works by rapidly changing colors, which can stimulate stuck subpixels back into normal operation. This method is safer than pressure and can be run for extended periods.

Not all stuck pixels respond to software repair. If software methods don't work, the pixel may be permanently stuck or actually dead.

When Pixels Cannot Be Fixed

Dead pixels cannot be fixed. They require screen replacement if they're bothersome. Check your warranty coverage before replacing screens.

Some stuck pixels don't respond to repair methods. If pressure and software methods don't work after multiple attempts, the pixel may be permanently stuck.

Multiple dead pixels may qualify for warranty coverage. Most manufacturers have policies covering screens with 3-5 dead pixels, depending on screen size and location.

If pixels are in corners or edges, they may be less noticeable. Consider whether replacement is worth the cost if pixels don't significantly impact use.

Warranty and Replacement

Manufacturer Dead Pixel Policies

Most manufacturers have dead pixel policies that define when screens qualify for replacement. Policies vary by manufacturer and screen type.

• Many policies require 3-5 dead pixels for replacement
• Some policies consider pixel location (center vs edges)
• Policies may differ for different screen sizes
• Check your manufacturer's specific policy
• Warranty coverage typically applies to new screens

Test new screens immediately after purchase. Identifying pixel problems early ensures warranty coverage if needed.

How to Prevent the Problem in Future

Test new screens immediately after purchase. Use the online screen test to identify pixel problems while under warranty.

Handle screens carefully. Physical damage can cause pixels to fail. Avoid pressure on screen surfaces.

Keep screens clean. Dust and debris can affect pixel operation over time. Clean screens regularly with appropriate methods.

Understand that some pixel defects are normal. Most manufacturers allow a certain number of dead pixels before considering screens defective.

Regular testing helps identify pixel problems early. Test screens periodically to catch issues before they become more noticeable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Use the online screen test to identify dead or stuck pixels.