White Screen Dead Pixel Test
White is the most reliable background for finding dead pixels. A dead pixel is always black — on a pure white screen it appears as a high-contrast black dot that is immediately visible. Start here if you suspect a dead pixel.
White screen test
Look for any black dots on the white background. Go full screen and scan the entire display corner to corner.
Press F11 for best results on desktop
What to look for
Black dot (dead pixel)
A fixed black point that does not change when you switch colors. Present on every color except black, where it disappears. This is a dead pixel — the transistor is permanently off.
Software cannot fix it. Document with a photo on this white background, then check your warranty options.
Dark grey dot
May be a partially failed transistor, a dust particle under the screen protector, or a sub-pixel issue. Test on multiple colors to rule out debris.
Check if it is visible on black too — debris will not be.
Slightly off-white spot
Could be backlight bleed (more of a glow near edges), a stuck sub-pixel stuck partially on, or LCD uniformity variation. Not the same as a dead pixel.
Test on black and colored screens to identify the type.
Found a dead pixel on a new screen? Act within your return window
Retailer return windows (14–30 days) do not apply a pixel defect threshold — a single dead pixel is grounds for return. After the window closes, manufacturer warranty policies apply ISO thresholds and the process is slower. Warranty guide →
How to document a dead pixel
- 1.Keep the white screen displayed at full brightness
- 2.Take a close-up photo with your phone camera (no flash)
- 3.Take a second photo showing the whole screen so the defect's position is clear
- 4.Note the date you first noticed it
- 5.Screenshot the test result — some support teams accept this as evidence
Test on other colors too
White finds dead pixels. Test on black to find stuck pixels. A complete test uses all seven colors.
Run the full 7-color dead pixel test →Frequently asked questions
Why is white the best color for finding dead pixels?+
Dead pixels are always black — the transistor is permanently off. A black dot on a white background has maximum contrast, making it the easiest defect to spot. White is the most effective single-color test for dead pixel detection.
What does a dead pixel look like on a white screen?+
A fixed black dot that does not change when the screen changes color. It will be the same size on every background and stays black regardless of what is displayed. On the black screen test, it will be invisible.
Can a dead pixel be fixed?+
True dead pixels cannot be fixed with software. If the dot shows any color on the black screen test, it may be a stuck pixel — which is sometimes fixable with rapid color cycling. Run the fix tool for 10–20 minutes and retest.
Is 1 dead pixel on a new screen grounds for a warranty claim?+
Within the retailer return window (14–30 days): yes, at virtually every major retailer. After the window, manufacturer ISO thresholds apply and 1 pixel may not qualify. Act within the return window for the fastest resolution.