Symptoms
- One or more thin horizontal lines across the screen
- Lines are a fixed color and don't change with content
- Lines flicker or move slightly when the cable is touched
- Lines appear in the monitor's own built-in settings menu too
Likely causes
- CommonLoose or damaged video cableA cable that's not fully seated can cause intermittent horizontal line artifacts.
- PossibleDamaged internal ribbon cable or panel connectorLines that appear even in the monitor's own menu screen point to internal hardware, not the PC.
- PossibleGraphics driver glitchOccasionally a driver crash can produce temporary line artifacts that clear after a restart.
- PossiblePhysical damage or pressure applied to the screenA drop, bump, or pressure point can create a permanent line at that location.
What to do
- Wiggle the video cable at both ends and watch whether the line changes or disappears.
- Swap in a different cable and try a different port on the graphics card.
- Access the monitor's own on-screen menu using its physical buttons to check if the line is present there without any PC connected.
- Restart the computer to rule out a temporary graphics driver glitch.
- Test the monitor with another device and your computer with another monitor to isolate the cause.
- Check for any recent impacts, drops, or pressure applied to the monitor near where the line appears.
Tools and parts
- None
Replacement video cableSearch: “HDMI or DisplayPort cable”
When to call a pro
If the line shows up in the monitor's own menu screen regardless of cable or source, it's internal damage requiring a repair technician or replacement, since panel repair often costs more than a new monitor.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.