Look carefully and you will be able to tell them apart.
Many electronic device users have felt the wave of panic that comes with trying to erase a mark on their screen, only to realize that it’s actually a problem with the screen itself. Sometimes this may be due to factors such as source or cable problems, and should not alarm you. Other times, however, it’s a pixel problem, which can be much scarier due to the varying levels of repairability.
Even the best monitors are not immune to a potential pixel problem, of which there are two main types: stuck pixels and dead pixels. Both are dots – or, even worse, groups of dots – that no screen user wants to see. However, while the two screen annoyances look very similar in terms of shape, there are distinct differences between them, including in exactly what they look like and whether they can be fixed.
Spot the difference
One of the biggest differences between a stuck and dead pixel is the presence of light. A stuck pixel is permanently lit, showing a constant blue, red, green, or bright dot, while a dead pixel, as the name suggests, no longer works and is always black. This visual difference can help you determine what particular problem you are facing.
The other deciding factor between the two is their repairability. A stuck pixel can follow a multitude of troubleshooting solutions and can often return to normal. On the other hand, a dead pixel cannot be recovered. If you have a dead pixel, unfortunately you will either have to replace it or learn to tolerate it. On the bright side, this is a generally less intrusive visual issue than something like screen burn-in.
How to Test for Dead and Stuck Pixels
Stuck and dead pixels are so small that it can sometimes be difficult to identify whether they are the problem in question and, if so, which specific case you are dealing with. First, it’s best to rule out any other display issues that might arise. Clean your screen thoroughly, see if the problem persists in different applications, and if you can, try both a new cable and a new input device.
Once you have ruled out other problems, perform a final test to actually identify the problem. There are several sites and apps that can be used to detect pixel issues, like Dead Pixel Buddy, and even some that also claim to be able to fix the problem, like JScreenFix or Dead Pixels Test and Fix. It’s worth noting that stuck pixels can sometimes be more difficult to diagnose, as those whose underlying cause is a power or heat issue may only appear intermittently. If so, try performing one of these tests as soon as you notice the problem returning.
