Dead Pixel Detector & Finder

Free online dead pixel detector — finds dead, stuck, and hot pixels on any display. Click Full Screen and scan each solid color systematically. No download or software required.

TEST_AREA.PREVIEWBLACK

Look for bright or colored dots — stuck pixels glow on a black background.

Press F11 for best results on desktop

How to Detect Dead Pixels

Dead pixels are found by elimination: when the screen shows a single uniform color, any pixel showing a different color has failed. The solid color approach is more effective than software that overlays a test pattern on top of other content — because it gives every pixel a known target color and makes deviations immediately obvious.

Scan methodically rather than glancing. Move your eyes in slow horizontal strips, top to bottom. On large monitors, reduce your scan distance — sit or stand within 40–50 cm so defects below the resolution limit of your peripheral vision are still visible. The five minutes spent scanning carefully is worth it when a defect is discovered within a return window.

Tip:Run the detector immediately after receiving a new screen — before the retailer's return window closes. A defect found within 14–30 days is almost always grounds for a free exchange, even if it falls below the manufacturer's warranty threshold.

What to Do After Detecting a Dead Pixel

1

Check if it is stuck, not dead

Switch to pure black. A dead pixel disappears; a stuck pixel glows. Stuck pixels can be fixed — run our fix tool before assuming the worst.

Run fix tool →
2

Check your warranty options

Most manufacturers follow ISO 13406-2 and require 3–5 defects for a replacement. Dell and some LG OLED policies are more generous.

Dead pixel warranty guide →
3

Use the return window if it is new

Retailer return policies (15–30 days) are often more practical than manufacturer warranty claims. Document the defect with a photo before returning.

Dead Pixel Detector FAQ

Can a dead pixel detector find stuck pixels too?+
Yes. The solid color cycling approach finds all pixel defect types: dead pixels (always black), stuck pixels (fixed on a color), hot pixels (all sub-pixels stuck on — appears white), and partial sub-pixel failures. The detector does not distinguish between them automatically — you identify the type by which backgrounds reveal the defect.
How does a dead pixel detector work?+
It fills your screen with a solid color. On a correctly functioning display, every pixel should be identical. Any pixel that shows a different color is defective. By cycling through seven colors — including black, white, red, green, and blue — every possible defect type is exposed on at least one background.
Is one dead pixel serious enough to warrant a replacement?+
It depends on location and your manufacturer's policy. A single dead pixel in the center of a monitor is more impactful than one at the corner. Dell's Premium Panel Guarantee replaces for a single bright pixel. Most other brands use a 3–5 defect threshold under ISO 13406-2 Class II. If you are within the return window, a single defect is often grounds for a swap through the retailer.
I found a dead pixel on my brand-new screen — what should I do?+
First, confirm it is genuinely a pixel defect and not dust. Wipe the screen with a clean microfiber cloth and retest. If the defect persists, photograph it against a white background. Then act quickly — most retailer return windows are 14–30 days. Check if it is stuck (colored) before contacting support, as stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed with our fix tool without needing a return.
Can I use this dead pixel finder on a TV?+
Yes. Open the page in your TV's built-in browser, or connect a laptop via HDMI and run it full screen. Test from about 1 metre to find defects, then check from normal viewing distance to see if they are actually visible during typical use.