Use different backgrounds for different clues
- White: look for persistent dark points. Inspect red, green and blue too; a subpixel fault may be easiest to see on one primary color.
- Black: look for a bright point that remains lit. LCD backlight glow and edge leakage are broader effects, not individual stuck pixels.
- Gray: look for large uneven regions or an outline of previously displayed content. These clues are different from a single pixel-sized dot.
A dark or bright point is a candidate defect, not an automatic diagnosis. Dust, a scratch or a screen protector can look similar. Wipe the surface gently and repeat; do not press or rub hard on a suspected pixel.
Dead, stuck, or retained image?
A dead pixel is commonly described as persistently dark; a stuck pixel or subpixel may remain bright or colored. LCD and OLED faults can vary, so record how the spot behaves across all backgrounds rather than assigning a type from one view.
OLED burn-in usually resembles a larger faint shape from repeated content and results from uneven pixel wear. Temporary image retention can look similar but may fade after normal varied use or rest. One brief inspection cannot prove whether it is permanent. Read the pixel, retention and burn-in comparison for a repeatable check.
Cover the visible panel and document what remains
Use fullscreen where the browser supports it. Otherwise the pattern fills the available browser viewport, leaving browser chrome untested. Hide the controls to inspect their area. Do not leave a bright static test pattern running unattended.
Photograph a persistent issue with another camera. A screenshot captures the page's intended pixels and generally cannot capture a physical panel defect. Record the affected background and location before contacting the seller or repair service; warranty thresholds vary.
This inspection does not test touch input, color calibration or panel lifespan. Use the touch coverage grid for an unresponsive region and the screen gradient and contrast check for broader display presentation. Only the colors visited and your assessment are saved locally.