How to Run a Picture Test on Your Samsung TV

Discover how to perform a picture test on your Samsung TV to diagnose display issues, including step-by-step instructions for various models from 2014 to 2024.

If your Samsung TV is displaying unusual colors, flickering, or distorted images, running a picture test can help identify potential display issues. This built-in diagnostic tool evaluates your TV's screen performance and provides insights into whether the problem lies with the hardware or external factors like cables or settings.

1. Why Perform a Picture Test on Your Samsung TV?

Picture tests are essential for diagnosing display-related problems such as:

- Flickering or dimming screens

- Color distortion or incorrect color balance

- Screen tearing or artifacts

- Issues with HDMI or external input sources

2. How to Run a Picture Test on Your Samsung TV

Follow these steps to access the picture test feature on your Samsung TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote control.
2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon).
3. Select Support or Customer Support.
4. Choose Self Diagnosis or Device Care.
5. Select Start Picture Test or Run Picture Test.
6. Wait for the test to complete. The TV will display a series of images to evaluate its display performance.

If the picture test completes successfully, your TV's display is functioning correctly. If issues persist, proceed to the next troubleshooting steps.

3. Picture Test Instructions for Older Samsung TV Models

For older Samsung TV models, the picture test menu path may differ slightly. Here are the steps for specific years:

2016–2019 Models:

1. Go to Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Start Picture Test.

2015 Models:

1. Press MENU/123 > MENU > Support > Self Diagnosis > Picture Test.

2014 Models:

1. Navigate to Support > Self Diagnosis > Picture Test.

4. What to Expect During the Picture Test

The picture test displays a series of images designed to evaluate your TV's display capabilities. These images may include:

- Solid color screens (red, green, blue, etc.)

- Patterns to check for dead pixels or screen irregularities

- Moving shapes or lines to assess motion clarity

If the test reveals issues such as flickering, color distortion, or uneven brightness, your TV may require further troubleshooting or professional repair.

5. Additional Things to Check

If the picture test does not resolve your display issues, consider these additional checks:

- Ensure all cables (HDMI, power, etc.) are securely connected.

- Restart your TV and external devices (streaming boxes, gaming consoles).

- Update your TV's software to the latest version.

- Test with a different input source to rule out external device issues.

6. Supported Samsung TV Models

The picture test feature is available on most Samsung TVs released from 2014 to 2024, including:

Galaxy Crystal UHD, QLED, Neo QLED, MicroLED, and The Frame TV series.

7. When to Contact Samsung Support

If the picture test indicates a hardware issue or persistent display problems, contact Samsung Support for further assistance. Our technicians can help diagnose and repair your TV efficiently.

Related Samsung Support Topics

- How to update your Samsung TV software

- Troubleshooting sound issues on your Samsung TV

- Resetting your Samsung TV to factory settings