Dead pixel test
A dead pixel is a pixel that stays black on every colour: its transistor has failed and it never lets light through.
Test it now
Open the test and step through red, green, blue, white and black, looking at the whole screen each time. Dead: black on all. Stuck: one colour on all. Hot: white on all. Backlight dots and dust are larger than one pixel and soft-edged.
What it is
A dead pixel is a pixel that stays black on every colour: its transistor has failed and it never lets light through. A stuck pixel is one that stays on one colour (red, green or blue) — its transistor is stuck open. A hot pixel stays white. Dead pixels cannot be revived; stuck pixels often can. The test below shows each colour full screen so a single wrong pixel stands out.
Can it be fixed?
Stuck pixels: often, with the pixel fixer — it flashes fast colour changes over the pixel and can free the stuck transistor in 10–30 minutes. Dead and hot pixels: no. Whether a panel is replaced under warranty depends on the count and where they are; check your maker's pixel policy before claiming.
What to do
- Run the five colours and count what you find, noting the type.
- Stuck pixel: drag the fixer over it, run 15 minutes, re-test; repeat once.
- Compare the count with the maker's pixel policy; claim if it qualifies.
- New monitor or laptop with any dead pixel: return it within the return window — that is easier than a warranty claim.
What a repair costs
| United States | usually more than the monitor is worth — a panel swap starts around $150 and most 24"–27" monitors cost less new |
|---|---|
| India | ₹4,000–10,000 for a panel, so a new monitor is often the better buy |
Typical ranges from repair-shop and manufacturer price lists, 2026-09-06. Get two quotes; prices vary by model and city.
Warranty
Most makers replace a panel under warranty for physical panel faults that are not accidental damage; pressure marks, cracks and liquid damage are treated as accidental and are not covered. For dead pixels, each brand has a threshold (typically 3–5 bright or 5–8 dark pixels on a laptop; Dell's premium-panel guarantee replaces at one bright pixel).