How do I run a dead pixel test on a MacBook in fullscreen?

Click 'Launch MacBook Fullscreen Test' or press Control+Command+F in Safari/Chrome to enter true macOS fullscreen mode, then use the Spacebar or Right Arrow to cycle pure RGB and monochrome test cards.

Does Apple replace MacBook screens with dead pixels?

Within the initial 14-day retail return period, Apple allows full refunds or direct unit replacements. Under the 1-year limited warranty, Apple evaluates the display against internal pixel matrix defect tolerances.

How do I check for defects around the MacBook camera notch?

In our fullscreen test, the color canvas extends beneath the macOS menu bar area directly wrapping the notch, allowing you to check for subpixel bleed or dead pixels along the rounded notch radius.

💻 MACOS LIQUID RETINA & XDR TESTING

MacBook Dead Pixel & Display Test

Diagnostic suite optimized for Apple MacBook Pro (14" & 16" Liquid Retina XDR) and MacBook Air (13" & 15" Liquid Retina). Check for dead subpixels, mini-LED blooming, and notch perimeter defects.

Launch MacBook Fullscreen Test

Cycles pure RGBW backgrounds. Use Spacebar / Right Arrow to advance colors and ESC to exit.

Spacebar / → Next Color ← Prev Color ESC Exit Test

Apple MacBook Pro with Liquid Retina XDR screen running a fullscreen dead pixel test

Liquid Retina & Mini-LED XDR Screen Inspection Guide

MacBook Pro models equipped with Liquid Retina XDR utilize thousands of mini-LED local dimming zones with sustained 1000 nits and peak 1600 nits brightness. MacBook Air uses high-gamut P3 Liquid Retina IPS. To verify your panel is defect-free, inspect these 3 critical display zones:

1. Center Display Matrix

Scan the main active workspace on solid Red, Green, Blue, and White screens for dark dots (dead pixels) or static brightly lit color specks (stuck pixels).

2. Camera Notch Perimeter

Inspect the curved radius around the FaceTime camera notch. Check for irregular light bleed or subpixel row disconnection along the bezel cutout.

3. Dark Uniformity & Blooming

On the pure black test screen (#000000), verify that mini-LED backlight zones dim completely to 0 nits without bright stuck LED clusters.

Apple MacBook Dead Pixel Warranty & Genius Bar Criteria

Understanding your warranty rights protects your investment when buying a new or certified refurbished MacBook:

14-Day Return Policy: Return the MacBook for a 100% refund or brand-new exchange if any pixel defect is detected within 14 days of purchase.
Genius Bar Service Threshold: For displays older than 14 days, Apple technicians evaluate pixel defects under warranty guidelines. While bright dots are often replaced promptly, dark subpixel criteria require specific cluster density counts.

Checking Other Manufacturer Warranties?

Learn how Dell, LG, ASUS, and Samsung handle dead pixel exchanges and Zero-Bright-Dot policies.

Browse Warranty Policies Hub →

Frequently Asked Questions (MacBook Display Testing)

Can a keyboard mark on the MacBook screen look like dead pixels?

Yes. Keyboard oils transferred to the anti-reflective coating can create dark squares resembling pixel clusters. Clean the screen gently with a damp microfiber cloth to check if marks wipe away.

Can software repair stuck pixels on a MacBook Pro?

Our interactive Stuck Pixel Fixer uses rapid RGB subpixel cycling to stimulate liquid crystals, which can sometimes revive stuck subpixels.