Dead Pixel vs Stuck Pixel
A dead pixel usually stays dark. A stuck pixel stays on one color or stays bright while the rest of the screen changes.
Quick answer
Dead pixels and stuck pixels look similar because both are tiny dots that do not match the screen. The difference is behavior: dead pixels are often dark, while stuck pixels may stay red, green, blue or bright.
Use several full-screen colors to compare the dot. One color is not enough.
Step-by-step check
Clean the screen first. Open the Dead Pixel Test page and enter fullscreen. Check white, black, red, green, blue, yellow, cyan, magenta and gray.
Watch the same spot as colors change. If it stays black on every color, it may be dead. If it changes on some colors but not others, it may be stuck or a subpixel issue.
What each issue means
A dead pixel may not light up. It can show as a black dot on white or bright colors. A stuck pixel may be locked to one color channel and show as red, green, blue or white.
Dust can mimic either issue. If the mark moves when wiped, it is surface dirt, not a pixel problem.
Common mistakes
Do not judge from a screenshot because screenshots do not capture hardware defects. Do not inspect only the center of the screen. Corners and edges matter too.
Do not rely on a single color. A subpixel issue may hide until you use the right color.
What to do next
If the device is new, take photos in more than one color and check the seller policy. If it is an older device, decide whether the dot affects normal use before spending time on repair options.
ScreenTools does not repair pixels. It helps you find and describe what you see.
Use-case table
| Need | Use | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Main task | Dead Pixel Test | This related tool helps you check the screen with a simple visible state. |
| Next check | Stuck Pixel Test | This related tool helps you check the screen with a simple visible state. |
| Extra context | Monitor Test | This related tool helps you check the screen with a simple visible state. |
Before you finish
Use these tools as simple visual checks. They are useful because they remove distractions and show one screen state at a time. They do not replace hardware repair, professional calibration, device warranty terms or the cleaning instructions from your device maker.
For the best result, test in normal conditions first. Then change one thing at a time, such as brightness, room light or viewing angle. This makes it easier to understand what you are seeing and avoid blaming the screen for dust, glare or an unusual setting.
On mobile, keep the device steady and use a comfortable brightness level. On desktop, move the browser window to the display you want to test before entering fullscreen. If you use more than one display, test each screen separately.
Write down what you see if you are comparing devices. A short note like top left corner, only on blue, or visible on gray can save time later. If you take a photo, include one wide shot and one close shot so the location is clear.
Repeat the check after changing brightness or room light. Some issues look worse at maximum brightness, while fingerprints and reflections may disappear when the angle changes. A second pass helps separate a real display issue from the test setup.
If you are helping someone else, explain what the tool can and cannot do. It can show colors, light and patterns. It cannot confirm warranty coverage, repair pixels, clean the screen for you or measure professional color accuracy.
Keep the process simple. Start with the screen state that answers your main question, then use one or two related tools if you need more context. Clear steps are better than switching through many settings too quickly.
Related ScreenTools
Related guides
Summary
Start with the simple screen state that answers your question. Use fullscreen, keep brightness comfortable, and compare one result at a time. ScreenTools can help you see colors, light and display patterns, but it does not repair hardware or replace device maker instructions.
FAQ
Which is worse, dead or stuck?
It depends on the display and location. A dead pixel is often dark, while a stuck pixel may be more visible on some colors.
Can I see this in a screenshot?
No. A screenshot captures the image, not the physical panel.
Which tool should I use?
Use the Dead Pixel Test or Stuck Pixel Test.