Dead Pixel Policy and Warranty Guide
How a dead pixel policy works
A dead pixel policy states how many faulty pixels a manufacturer accepts before it will repair or replace a display under warranty. These policies differ by brand, product line and region, and they change over time, so always check the current policy for your exact model.
We do not list specific numbers per brand, because policies vary by model and region and are updated often. Check the manufacturer’s official policy for your model.
ISO 9241-307 pixel fault classes
The ISO 9241-300 series (earlier ISO 13406-2) groups flat panels into pixel fault classes. Class I allows no faults; higher classes allow more. Fault types are usually split into:
- Type 1: a pixel always on (bright, white).
- Type 2: a pixel always off (dark, dead).
- Type 3: a sub-pixel stuck on or off (a coloured dot).
| Class | What it means in general |
|---|---|
| Class I | No faulty pixels allowed. |
| Class II | A small number of faults allowed per million pixels; the class most consumer monitors have historically referenced. |
| Class III | More faults allowed. |
| Class IV | The highest number of faults allowed. |
Manufacturers may reference a class, or write their own rules (for example treating bright defects more strictly than dark ones, or counting defects in the centre of the screen differently).
How to check your manufacturer’s policy
- Search for your brand name plus “pixel policy” or “dead pixel warranty” on the manufacturer’s official site.
- Look up the policy for your region and product line (monitors, laptops, TVs and phones are often different).
- Note whether bright and dark defects are counted separately and whether a zero bright dot promise applies.
- Check if premium models carry a stricter or extended panel guarantee.
How to approach a return or warranty claim
- Document it: run the colour test, photograph the pixel on the colour where it is most visible, and note its position.
- Try the seller first if you are inside the return window; this is often the simplest route.
- Open a warranty case with the manufacturer, including the serial number, proof of purchase and photos.
- Ask about a replacement policy: some brands ship a replacement before you send the original back.
- Keep records of case numbers and replies.
Before claiming, try the stuck pixel fixer if the dot is coloured; a stuck pixel sometimes clears.
Frequently asked questions
Is there one standard for how many dead pixels are allowed?
ISO 9241-302/-305/-307 (which replaced ISO 13406-2) defines pixel fault classes, but each manufacturer sets its own policy and may treat bright and dark defects differently.
Can I return a monitor for one dead pixel?
It depends on the seller’s return policy and the manufacturer’s pixel policy. Many retailers accept returns within their return window regardless; after that, the manufacturer’s rules apply.
What is a zero bright dot policy?
Some brands or product lines promise replacement for even one bright (always-on) sub-pixel. Check your exact model’s warranty page to see whether it applies.