Stuck Pixel
Display Defects
A pixel that remains permanently lit in one color (red, green, blue, or white) due to a subpixel being stuck in the on or off position.
What is a Stuck Pixel?
A stuck pixel is a display defect where a pixel remains permanently lit in a single color. Unlike dead pixels which are always black, stuck pixels show a constant color because one or more of their subpixels (red, green, or blue) are stuck in either the on or off position.
Characteristics
- Displays a fixed color - typically red, green, blue, white, cyan, magenta, or yellow
- Most visible on contrasting backgrounds - especially noticeable on black screens
- Potentially fixable - unlike dead pixels, stuck pixels can sometimes be repaired
- Caused by subpixel malfunction - one or more subpixels stuck in one state
Types of Stuck Pixels
By Color
- Red stuck pixel: Red subpixel stuck on
- Green stuck pixel: Green subpixel stuck on
- Blue stuck pixel: Blue subpixel stuck on
- White stuck pixel: All three subpixels stuck on (also called a hot pixel)
- Cyan stuck pixel: Green and blue subpixels stuck on
- Magenta stuck pixel: Red and blue subpixels stuck on
- Yellow stuck pixel: Red and green subpixels stuck on
Causes
Stuck pixels typically occur due to:
- Manufacturing defects - Imperfections in the LCD layer
- Electrical issues - Subpixel transistor malfunction
- Physical stress - Pressure or impact on the screen
- Liquid crystal problems - Crystals stuck in one orientation
Detection
To detect stuck pixels:
- Display a pure black screen - stuck pixels appear as colored dots
- Test with contrasting colors to identify which subpixels are stuck
- Use a pixel test tool with multiple color backgrounds
- Look for bright dots that don't change with the background
Fixing Stuck Pixels
Unlike dead pixels, stuck pixels can sometimes be fixed:
Software Methods
- Pixel exercising - Rapidly cycle through colors for 10-30 minutes
- JScreenFix - Online tool that flashes pixels rapidly
- Pixel fixing videos - YouTube videos with rapid color changes
Physical Methods
- Gentle pressure - Apply slight pressure with a soft cloth while the screen is off
- Heat cycling - Turn the monitor on and off several times
- Patience - Some stuck pixels fix themselves over time
Success Rate
- Best results: Fresh stuck pixels (within days of appearing)
- Moderate success: Pixels stuck for weeks
- Low success: Pixels stuck for months or years
Stuck Pixel vs Dead Pixel
| Feature | Stuck Pixel | Dead Pixel |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Bright colored dot | Always black |
| Cause | Subpixel stuck on/off | Complete transistor failure |
| Fixable | Often (50-70% success) | Rarely (less than 5%) |
| Visibility | Most visible on dark backgrounds | Most visible on light backgrounds |
| Warranty | May be covered | Usually covered |
Prevention
To minimize the risk of stuck pixels:
- Avoid static images - Use screen savers or turn off display when idle
- Prevent burn-in - Especially important for OLED displays
- Handle carefully - Avoid pressing on the screen
- Quality brands - Choose manufacturers with good quality control
- Test early - Check for defects within the return period
When to Seek Replacement
Consider requesting a warranty replacement if:
- Multiple stuck pixels appear
- Stuck pixel is in the center of the screen
- Fixing attempts fail after several days
- The defect significantly impacts usability