Monitor Testing FAQ - Common Questions Answered

Is FreeScreenTest really free?

Yes. The core tests work directly in your browser with no signup, no downloads, and no hidden fees.

Do I need to install anything?

No. FreeScreenTest runs entirely in your web browser. Just visit our website and click on any test. Works on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. For best results, use a modern browser updated to the latest version.

Can I use FreeScreenTest on my phone or tablet?

Yes! Most tests work on mobile devices. We've optimized for touch gestures:

• Tap: Next color/pattern
• Swipe: Navigate between patterns
• Double-tap: Hide/show controls
• Long-press: Exit test

Performance tests (refresh rate, response time) may not be as accurate on mobile due to browser limitations.

How accurate are these tests?

The tests are useful for home inspection, but they are browser-based and have limits:

• Dead pixel test: depends on careful visual inspection
• Refresh rate: uses browser frame timing and can be affected by browser load
• Response time: visual and subjective
• Color tests: Qualitative (browser color management affects results)

For color-critical work, use a hardware colorimeter or another proper measurement workflow.

Do you collect my data?

We use localStorage (stored only on your device) to save test history. No test results are uploaded to FreeScreenTest. Pages that show ads may load Google AdSense, which can use cookies and similar technologies as described in our Privacy Policy.

What's the difference between dead and stuck pixels?

How many dead pixels are acceptable?

For a new purchase, document every visible defect and compare it with the retailer return terms and the manufacturer's current pixel policy. Some policies reference ISO-style pixel classes:

• • Class 0: 0 defects (rare, premium models)
• • Class I: 1 dead subpixel allowed
• • Class II: 2 bright pixels + 2 dark pixels (most consumer monitors)
• • Class III: 5 bright pixels + 15 dark pixels (budget)

Important: If you find defects during the return period, review the retailer policy first. Retailer returns are often simpler than manufacturer warranty claims.

Can stuck pixels be fixed?

Sometimes, yes. Success varies by panel and defect type. If you try a fix, use conservative methods:

1. Pixel fixing software: JScreenFix, UDPixel - rapidly flash colors for 30+ minutes
2. Gentle pressure: Use a soft cloth and apply gentle circular pressure while displaying colors
3. Heat cycle: Turn monitor off, let it cool completely, turn back on

Dead pixels (black) usually cannot be fixed because the pixel is not activating. Document the location and check the current return or support options for your product.

I found a "dead pixel" that's actually just dirt. How can I tell?

Clean your screen first! Use a microfiber cloth (slightly damp if needed):

• Dirt/dust: Usually larger than one pixel and may move when wiped
• Dead pixel: Stays in the same position across solid color patterns

Use a flashlight at an angle to see surface dirt versus pixel defects.

Will dead pixels spread or get worse over time?

Usually no. Dead pixels are isolated defects. If multiple pixels appear over time, document the change and contact the retailer or manufacturer for current support options.

How long should I spend on each test?

Should I test my monitor right out of the box?

Yes, immediately! Most return policies give you 14-30 days. Test within the first few days while you can still return easily. Also retest after 1 week of use (some issues appear after warm-up cycles).

Why can't I enter fullscreen mode?

Browser security requires user interaction to enter fullscreen. Click the "Start Test" button (don't use keyboard shortcut initially). If it still fails:

• Update your browser to the latest version
• Check browser permissions (allow fullscreen for FreeScreenTest)
• Try a different browser (Chrome recommended)
• Disable browser extensions that might block fullscreen

Can I test multiple monitors at once?

Yes. Open FreeScreenTest in separate browser windows and drag each window to a different monitor. Press F11 or use the fullscreen button on each window. Useful for:

• Comparing color uniformity across dual monitors
• Testing multi-monitor alignment
• Simultaneous dead pixel testing

Do I need to reset my monitor before testing?

Reset to factory defaults before testing if you want a clean baseline. After testing, adjust settings for your specific workflow.

My monitor is rated 144Hz but only shows 60Hz in Windows. Why?

This is a very common issue. Windows doesn't automatically enable high refresh rates. Fix it:

1. Right-click desktop → Display settings → Advanced display
2. Select your monitor → Choose refresh rate dropdown
3. Select 144Hz (or your monitor's max)
4. Use DisplayPort 1.4 cable (HDMI 2.0 limited to 120-144Hz @ 1080p)

Run our Refresh Rate Test to verify.

What's the difference between "1ms GTG" and real response time?

GTG (Gray-to-Gray) is measured under best-case conditions (specific gray shades). Real-world response time is usually 2-4x higher:

• • Advertised "1ms" → Actually 3-5ms
• • Advertised "4ms" → Actually 6-10ms
• • OLED "0.1ms" → Actually 0.1ms (OLED is honest)

Focus on visual ghosting during our response time test, not marketing numbers.

IPS vs VA vs TN - which is best?

Depends on your use case:

Is HDR400 worth it?

HDR400 is an entry-level HDR label and often provides limited HDR impact compared with HDR600, HDR1000, mini-LED, or OLED displays. Check measured brightness, local dimming behavior, and reviews instead of relying on the badge alone.

Do I need G-Sync/FreeSync?

Yes, if you game. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates screen tearing when FPS fluctuates. Benefits:

• Smooth gameplay even when FPS drops below refresh rate
• No tearing without enabling V-Sync (which adds input lag)
• G-Sync Compatible (FreeSync) works with both Nvidia & AMD GPUs now

Not important for productivity/creative work.

Can I return a monitor with dead pixels?

Within the return period: start with the retailer policy. Retailer return windows are often clearer than later manufacturer support terms.

After the return period: manufacturer terms apply. Ask support for the current pixel policy for your exact model and region.

How do I document defects for support?

Create a clear personal record before contacting a retailer or manufacturer:

1. Use phone camera (not screenshots - they don't capture physical defects)
2. Take photos of defect on multiple solid colors (white, black, gray)
3. Include wide shot showing entire screen + close-up of defect
4. Save local results from FreeScreenTest or export a report for your own records
5. Record serial number and model number visible in photo

What is an advance replacement?

Some manufacturers may send a replacement before receiving the original unit. Ask whether this is available and confirm any credit card hold, shipping cost, or return deadline before accepting.

Can I contact support for excessive backlight bleed?

Within a return period, compare the issue with the retailer's return terms. After that, manufacturer support may treat backlight bleed as subjective unless it is severe during normal use.

Tip: Take photos in a dark room and normal room lighting. Describe what you see as a visible uniformity issue and ask support which policy applies.

How do I compare support policies?

My monitor flickers at high refresh rate. How to fix?

Colors look washed out. What's wrong?

I see ghosting/motion blur. Can this be fixed?

Try these settings:

• Enable monitor's "Overdrive" or "Response Time" setting (Medium level - High can cause inverse ghosting)
• Enable "MPRT" or "ELMB" (motion blur reduction) if available
• Increase refresh rate (higher Hz = less motion blur)
• If still bad, panel limitation - VA panels especially prone to smearing

Why does my monitor have a yellow/blue tint?

Color temperature issue. Monitors default to 6500K (D65 - neutral white). If it looks yellow, increase color temp to 7500K. If blue, decrease to 5500K. Or manually adjust RGB gains in OSD. Some monitors have "Warm/Neutral/Cool" presets.

Screen goes black for 1-2 seconds randomly. Why?

VRR (G-Sync/FreeSync) range switching. Happens when FPS drops below monitor's VRR minimum range (usually 40-48 FPS). Solutions:

• Disable VRR if not gaming
• Cap FPS above VRR minimum (e.g., 60 FPS min for 60-144Hz VRR)
• Update monitor firmware (some fix this issue)