Monitor Testing FAQ - Common Questions Answered

Is FreeScreenTest really free?

Yes, 100% free. All tests work directly in your browser with no signup, no downloads, and no hidden fees. We may add optional premium features in the future (like detailed PDF reports), but core testing will always be free.

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?

Our tests use industry-standard methods and are accurate enough for consumer use:

• Dead pixel test: 100% accurate (visual inspection)
• Refresh rate: ±1-2 FPS accuracy using requestAnimationFrame
• Response time: Subjective (shows ghosting visually)
• Color tests: Qualitative (browser color management affects results)

For professional color work, use a hardware colorimeter (X-Rite, Datacolor).

Do you collect my data?

We use localStorage (stored only on your device) to save test history. No personal data is sent to our servers. We may use Google Analytics to understand site usage (anonymous data only). Your test results stay private on your device.

What's the difference between dead and stuck pixels?

How many dead pixels are acceptable?

Our opinion: ZERO. You paid for a perfect product. However, manufacturers follow ISO 13406-2 standards:

• • 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: Even if "technically acceptable," request replacement within your return period. Don't settle for defects.

Can stuck pixels be fixed?

Sometimes, yes. Try these methods (30-50% success rate):

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) cannot be fixed - they require replacement. Don't waste time trying.

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: Larger than a pixel, moves when wiped, not perfectly round
• Dead pixel: Exactly 1 pixel size, perfectly square/round, doesn't move, same position on all colors

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

Will dead pixels spread or get worse over time?

No. Dead pixels are isolated defects. They don't "spread" like a disease. However, if you have multiple dead pixels appearing over time, this indicates a manufacturing quality issue or damage - contact the manufacturer for warranty replacement.

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 fullscreen button) on each window. Perfect for:

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

Do I need to calibrate my monitor before testing?

Reset to factory defaults before testing to establish a baseline. This ensures you're testing the monitor's actual capabilities, not previous user settings. After testing, you can calibrate 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?

No. HDR400 is basically fake HDR. You need HDR600 minimum (600 nits peak brightness) to see meaningful HDR benefits. HDR1000 or OLED provide true HDR experience. Save your money unless you're getting HDR600+.

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 return period: YES, absolutely. Retailer return policies (Amazon, Best Buy, etc.) usually allow returns for any reason within 14-30 days.

After return period: Manufacturer warranty applies. Most require "excessive" dead pixels (3-5+) per ISO standards. Fight this - escalate to supervisor and cite consumer protection laws.

💡 Pro Tip: Some manufacturers (ASUS, BenQ) offer "Zero Bright Pixel Guarantee" - no bright (stuck) pixels allowed within first year.

How do I document defects for RMA?

Take photos/videos as evidence:

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 test results from FreeScreenTest (screenshot test history page)
5. Record serial number and model number visible in photo

What is "Advanced RMA" and should I request it?

Advanced RMA means manufacturer sends replacement before you return defective unit. This avoids downtime. Always request this when available. Some companies require credit card hold until they receive your return.

Can I RMA for excessive backlight bleed?

Within return period: Yes. After that, it's harder - backlight bleed is subjective and "common" per manufacturers.

Tip: Take photos in dark room, compare to online reviews of same model. If yours is significantly worse, you have a case. Phrase it as "severe uniformity defect" not just "backlight bleed" when contacting support.

Which brands have the best warranty/support?

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)