Monitors and screens

Stuck pixel

Also called hot pixel · bright dot

A stuck pixel has one or more subpixels stuck on, so it shows a fixed red, green, blue or white dot on every background. It is most visible on a black screen.

Unlike dead pixels, stuck pixels sometimes recover with pressure or a rapidly flashing color, though there is no guarantee.

In practice

Stuck pixels are more noticeable than dead ones because they glow. A single red or green dot on a dark scene draws the eye straight to it. Unlike dead pixels, some stuck pixels recover on their own or with gentle encouragement, which is why it is worth identifying which kind you have before you claim a return.

How to check

Show full screen black in the dead pixel test. A stuck pixel appears as a bright colored dot. Step through red, green and blue to see which subpixel is stuck. Rapidly flashing colors over the spot for a while can sometimes free it. If it is still there after a few attempts, treat it as permanent and check the warranty.

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