Symptoms
- Horizontal split or misalignment visible during fast motion
- Video appears to stutter or judder, especially with camera pans
- Problem is worse in games than in regular TV/streaming
- Issue appears only at certain resolutions or frame rates
Likely causes
- CommonRefresh rate mismatch between source device and TVIf a source outputs 60Hz but content is filmed at 24fps, judder can appear without proper frame rate matching.
- CommonVRR (variable refresh rate) not enabled for gamingScreen tearing during gameplay is often solved by enabling VRR or G-Sync/FreeSync compatibility if supported by both TV and console/PC.
- PossibleMotion smoothing interacting poorly with certain contentSome motion processing features can introduce or worsen judder rather than fix it.
- PossibleHDMI cable or port not rated for the resolution/refresh rate being usedA cable that can't handle the bandwidth may cause dropped frames that look like tearing.
What to do
- Check if the source device (game console, streaming box) has a matching frame rate setting and enable 'match frame rate' if available.
- For gaming, enable VRR or a game mode setting on the TV if your console and TV both support it.
- Turn off motion smoothing features to see if that resolves the judder.
- Try a different, higher-bandwidth HDMI cable if using 4K or high refresh rate content.
- Lower the resolution or refresh rate on the source device temporarily to see if the issue disappears.
- Update firmware on both the TV and the source device.
Tools and parts
High-bandwidth HDMI cableSearch: “HDMI 2.1 cable 48Gbps”
When to call a pro
This is a settings/compatibility issue; a technician isn't typically needed unless the TV shows tearing on its own built-in content with no external source connected.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.