How to Fix Grainy or Pixelated Video on a Samsung TV

If your Samsung TV is displaying grainy or pixelated video, this guide provides several troubleshooting methods to help you restore clear and sharp image quality. Follow these step-by-step instructions under each method to diagnose and resolve the display issues.

Method 1. Verify the Source and Connection Quality

Ensure that your video source and cable connections are providing a clear signal to your TV.

Inspect Cable Connections: Check that HDMI or other video cables are firmly connected to both the TV and the external device.
Try a Different Cable or Port: Swap out the current cable with a known working one, and test a different input port on the TV.
Examine the Video Source: Verify that the external device (such as a cable box, Blu-ray player, or streaming device) is set to the correct resolution and is functioning properly.
Switch Sources: Connect another device to the TV to see if the graininess persists, which helps isolate whether the issue is with the source or the TV.

Method 2. Adjust TV Picture Settings

Tweaking your TV’s picture settings can often reduce or eliminate graininess and pixelation.

Access Picture Settings: Press the remote’s “Menu” or “Settings” button and navigate to the Picture settings section.
Modify Sharpness and Contrast: Lower the sharpness and adjust contrast levels to reduce noise in the image.
Change the Picture Mode: Experiment with different picture modes (e.g., Standard, Movie, or Dynamic) to see which one offers the best clarity.
Reset Custom Settings: If you’ve made many adjustments, consider resetting to the default picture settings and then re-calibrate as needed.

Method 3. Update the TV’s Firmware

Updating the TV’s firmware can resolve bugs that may cause display issues such as grainy or pixelated video.

Open the Settings Menu: Use your remote to navigate to the “Support” or “Software Update” section.
Check for Firmware Updates: Select the option to search for new updates and follow on-screen instructions if an update is available.
Download and Install: Allow the firmware update process to complete, ensuring that the TV remains powered during the update.
Restart the TV: After the update, restart the TV to see if the image quality has improved.

Method 4. Reset the TV’s Picture Mode to Factory Defaults

Reverting to factory default settings can clear misconfigurations that may be contributing to image quality issues.

Navigate to Picture Settings: Open the Picture settings menu on your TV.
Find the Reset Option: Look for an option labeled “Reset Picture” or “Restore Default Settings.”
Confirm the Reset: Follow the on-screen prompts to reset the picture settings.
Re-Test the Display: Play a video to verify if the graininess or pixelation has been reduced or eliminated.

Method 5. Power Cycle the TV and Connected Devices

Power cycling refreshes the TV’s internal system and can help resolve temporary glitches affecting video quality.

Turn Off the TV: Use the remote or power button to switch off the TV.
Unplug from Power: Disconnect the TV and any connected devices from the power outlet.
Wait and Discharge: Wait at least 60 seconds to allow residual power to dissipate.
Reconnect and Restart: Plug everything back in and power on the TV to check if the issue is resolved.

Method 6. Check for Signal or Bandwidth Issues (For Streaming Content)

If you are streaming video, network bandwidth limitations or interference might be causing the grainy or pixelated picture.

Test Your Internet Speed: Use a speed test on a computer or mobile device to ensure your internet connection is fast enough for high-quality streaming.
Switch to a Wired Connection: If possible, connect your streaming device to the router via Ethernet for a more stable connection.
Adjust Streaming Quality Settings: Lower or raise the streaming quality setting on your device to see if a different setting improves the video clarity.
Restart Your Router/Modem: Reboot your networking equipment to resolve any temporary connection issues.

Method 7. Contact Samsung Support or a Professional Technician

If none of the troubleshooting methods resolve the grainy or pixelated video, professional assistance may be necessary.

Gather TV Information: Record your Samsung TV model, serial number, and firmware version, along with a description of the issue.
Check Warranty Status: Review your warranty or service contract details to determine if repairs may be covered.
Visit Samsung’s Support Website: Look for additional troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and contact information.
Arrange for Professional Service: Contact Samsung customer support or an authorized technician for further diagnosis and repair.