Samsung TV Circle on Screen: The Complete Troubleshooting & Fix Guide [2026]

Quick Fix Summary: Diagnose Your Samsung TV Circle Issue in 60 Seconds

Seeing a circle on your Samsung TV screen? Before you panic or start shopping for a replacement, take 60 seconds to identify exactly what you're dealing with. The fix could be simpler than you think.

Answer these four questions to diagnose your circle type:

1. Is the circle always in the same spot? → You likely have a hardware issue (white spots from fallen LED diffuser lenses)

2. Does the circle spin or rotate? → Software issue (loading/buffering problem)

3. Is there a small spinning circle in the upper right corner? → Update indicator (your TV is downloading something)

4. Are there multiple circles in a grid pattern? → Multiple fallen diffuser lenses (hardware issue that's progressed)

Three Quick Fixes That Solve 60% of Circle Issues:

1. Power Cycle: Unplug your TV from the wall for 60 seconds. While unplugged, press and hold the power button on the TV itself (not the remote) for 30 seconds. Plug it back in and turn it on.

2. Firmware Update: Navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update → Update Now. Outdated firmware causes many spinning circle issues.

3. Emergency Restart: If your TV is completely frozen with a spinning circle and won't respond, press and hold the power button on your remote for 10+ seconds until the TV restarts.

If your TV remains frozen and won't respond to any inputs, you may need to restart your frozen Samsung TV using the manual power button method.

Quick Decision Guide:

• White spots that don't move → Skip to Section 7 (Hardware Fixes)

• Spinning circle in center → Skip to Section 6 (Software Fixes)

• Circle in corner → Skip to Section 8 (Update Indicator Fix)

• Not sure what type → Continue to Section 3 (Visual Identification)

For a broader overview of potential issues affecting your television, our complete Samsung TV troubleshooting guide covers additional problems you might encounter.

Introduction: Why Circles Appear on Samsung TV Screens

If you're seeing circles on your Samsung TV screen, you're not alone. This ranks among the most commonly reported Samsung TV issues, with thousands of posts across Samsung Community forums documenting the problem.

Here's what most people don't realize: "Samsung TV circle on screen" actually encompasses several completely different issues, each requiring its own fix. Mixing them up leads to wasted time and failed repair attempts.

The three main types you might encounter:

• White circles or spots – Fixed, stationary bright spots caused by hardware problems inside your TV's backlight system

• Spinning or loading circles – Animated circles indicating software issues, network problems, or system glitches

• Corner circles – Small spinning indicators in the upper right corner showing download or update progress

This issue affects Samsung LED TVs across multiple model years, with reports spanning from 2016 models through recent 2024 releases. The white spot variation particularly impacts TVs that are 2-5 years old, while spinning circle problems can affect any Samsung smart TV regardless of age.

By the end of this guide, you'll either fix the issue yourself or know exactly what professional help you need. You'll understand your repair options, actual costs involved, and whether your warranty covers the problem.

Understanding how circles affect your viewing experience connects directly to your Samsung TV picture settings, which we'll address when discussing temporary workarounds.

Visual Identification Guide: What Type of Circle Do You Have?

Getting the diagnosis right matters. Attempting hardware fixes for software problems (or vice versa) wastes your time and could void your warranty unnecessarily.

White Circles and Spots (Hardware Issue)

Visual characteristics:

• Circular shape, typically 0.5 to 2 inches in diameter

• Appear as bright spots on all content, regardless of what's playing

• Most noticeable on light backgrounds or white screens

• Stay in fixed positions and never move

• May appear in a grid pattern if multiple diffuser lenses have fallen

• Sometimes described as "orbs" or "UFO shapes" by frustrated owners

Telltale sign: Gently shake your TV (carefully!) and listen. If you hear small objects rattling inside, those are likely fallen diffuser lenses that have come loose.

Spinning or Loading Circle (Software Issue)

Visual characteristics:

• Animated circle that rotates continuously

• Usually appears in the center of the screen

• Often accompanied by a black or frozen screen

• Typically shows up during app launches, TV startup, or while streaming

• May appear when the TV is processing or buffering content

When your Samsung TV displays a loading circle that won't stop, it's often related to Samsung TV buffering problems or network connectivity issues.

Telltale sign: The circle moves. If it's spinning, rotating, or animating in any way, you're dealing with a software issue.

Glowing or Diffuse Circles (LED Issue)

Visual characteristics:

• Similar to white spots but larger and more diffuse

• Less defined edges compared to white spots

• Most visible during dark scenes

• May indicate failing LED strips rather than just fallen lenses

Telltale sign: These appear softer and more spread out than sharp white spots, suggesting deeper backlight problems.

Corner Circle – Update Indicator

Visual characteristics:

• Small spinning circle in the upper right corner

• Only appears occasionally, often when first turning on the TV

• Indicates the TV is downloading updates or syncing data

This circle often appears when your TV is performing a Samsung TV firmware update in the background.

Telltale sign: Appears in the corner (not center), and usually resolves on its own within a few minutes.

Circle Type Comparison Table

Root Causes Explained: Why Circles Appear on Samsung TVs

Understanding what causes circles on your Samsung TV helps you make informed repair decisions and prevents the same problem from recurring.

The LED Diffuser Lens Problem (White Spots)

White circles on Samsung TVs stem from a specific hardware component: the LED diffuser lens.

Here's what's happening inside your TV: Samsung LED televisions use strips of LED lights behind the LCD panel to illuminate the screen. Each individual LED is covered by a small plastic diffuser lens (sometimes called a reflector cap) that spreads the light evenly across the display area.

These lenses attach to the LED strip using adhesive. Over time, heat generated by the LEDs themselves degrades this adhesive through thermal cycling. When the adhesive fails, the lens falls off.

Without the diffuser lens spreading the light, the concentrated LED beam creates a visible bright spot or "orb" on your screen. The lens itself usually falls to the bottom of the TV's chassis, which explains the rattling sound some owners notice.

This issue commonly affects Samsung LED TVs manufactured between 2016 and 2022. The circles typically appear 2-5 years after purchase, though some TVs never develop the problem at all. It's not a universal defect, but it's common enough to generate thousands of forum complaints.

For severe cases where multiple LEDs have failed entirely, you may need to fix the backlight on your Samsung TV through more extensive repairs.

Software Causes (Spinning Circles)

Spinning or loading circles indicate your TV's software is struggling. Common culprits include:

• Firmware glitches during startup – The TV's operating system encounters an error while booting

• Smart Hub loading failures – Apps and services fail to initialize properly

• Network connectivity issues – Slow or interrupted internet causes buffering loops

• Incomplete firmware updates – An update was interrupted and left the system in a problematic state

• App cache corruption – Stored data from streaming apps becomes corrupted

These problems relate to your TV's Tizen operating system rather than physical hardware. When Samsung TV streaming issues occur, the spinning circle becomes your TV's way of saying "please wait" indefinitely.

LED Strip Failure (Glowing Circles)

Larger, more diffuse glowing circles may indicate failing LED strips rather than simply fallen lenses. This represents a more serious issue.

When individual LEDs begin to fail or LED strips develop problems, they produce uneven lighting that appears as broad glowing areas on the screen. Unlike fallen lenses (which create sharp bright spots), failing LEDs create softer, more spread-out illumination problems.

Environmental Factors That Accelerate Problems

Several factors can speed up diffuser lens adhesive degradation:

• Heat exposure – TVs in warm rooms or near heat sources fail faster

• Poor ventilation – Blocked vents prevent proper cooling

• Power surges – Electrical spikes can damage LED components

• Humidity – Moisture affects adhesive longevity

Samsung TV Diagnostic Tests: Confirming Hardware vs. Software Issues

Before attempting any fix, confirm whether you're dealing with hardware or software. These diagnostic tests take just a few minutes and prevent wasted effort.

Samsung Picture Test (2021+ Models)

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings

3. Select Device Care

4. Choose Self Diagnosis

5. Select Picture Test

6. Examine the test image carefully

The Picture Test displays a high-definition image generated internally by your TV. If circles appear during this test, you've confirmed a hardware issue inside the TV itself, not a problem with external devices or cables.

Samsung Picture Test (Older Models)

1. Press Home or Menu on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings

3. Select Support

4. Choose Self Diagnosis

5. Select Picture Test

HDMI Cable Test

For TVs with HDMI Troubleshooting (2021+ models):

1. Go to Settings → Device Care → Self Diagnosis → HDMI Troubleshooting

2. Select the HDMI connection you want to test

3. Follow the on-screen instructions

This test helps rule out cable or connection issues for spinning circle problems. If your TV shows no signal errors alongside circles, the HDMI test becomes particularly useful.

External Device Isolation Test

Disconnect ALL external devices from your TV:

• Cable or satellite box

• Streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV)

• Game consoles

• Soundbars connected via HDMI

Test using only your TV's built-in apps. If the spinning circle disappears, the issue lies with an external device rather than your TV.

If you use a streaming device like Amazon Fire Stick and experience issues, check whether your Firestick is working properly on your Samsung TV before assuming the TV itself is at fault.

Flashlight Test for Backlight Assessment

This test determines if your backlight has failed entirely:

1. Turn on your TV in a completely dark room

2. Shine a flashlight at an angle toward the screen

3. Look carefully for a faint image

If you can see a dim image when the flashlight shines on the screen but the display appears black otherwise, your backlight has failed. This represents a more serious issue than simple white spots.

Document Everything Before Proceeding

Take photos and videos of the circle issue before attempting any fixes. This documentation proves invaluable for warranty claims and professional repair consultations.

How to Fix Samsung TV Spinning & Loading Circle Issues (Software Fixes)

A spinning circle preventing you from using your TV is frustrating, but it's almost always fixable through software troubleshooting. Work through these fixes in order, as they're arranged from simplest to most comprehensive.

Fix 1: Power Cycle (Cold Boot)

This simple fix resolves approximately 40% of spinning circle issues by clearing cached data and resetting software processes.

1. Unplug your TV from the wall outlet (not just the power strip)

2. Wait a full 60 seconds

3. While unplugged, press and hold the power button on the TV itself (not the remote) for 30 seconds

4. Wait another 30 seconds

5. Plug the TV back in and power it on

If your Samsung TV is frozen and won't respond to the remote at all, this power cycle method is your best first option.

Fix 2: Firmware Update

Outdated firmware causes many loading circle problems. If you can access your TV's menus:

1. Navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update

2. Select Update Now

3. Wait for the update to download and install (this may take 5-10 minutes on slower connections)

If your TV keeps restarting or won't stay on long enough to complete an update, try enabling Auto Update when you can briefly access the menu, then leave the TV connected to the internet overnight.

For TVs that keep turning off unexpectedly, our guide on Samsung TV keeps rebooting addresses these persistent restart issues.

Fix 3: Smart Hub Reset

This resets all Smart Hub settings to factory defaults while preserving your basic TV settings.

1. Go to Settings → Support → Device Care

2. Select Self Diagnosis

3. Choose Reset Smart Hub

4. Enter your PIN (default is 0000)

5. Wait for the reset to complete

Warning: This will sign you out of ALL streaming apps. You'll need to re-enter your login credentials for Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime, and every other app.

If your TV keeps freezing even after a Smart Hub reset, the issue may be deeper than cached app data.

Fix 4: Network Troubleshooting

Network problems cause many Samsung TV buffering issues and spinning circles. Try these steps:

1. Restart your router: Unplug it for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and wait for full restart

2. Reconnect your TV's WiFi: Go to Settings → Network → Network Status → Disconnect, then reconnect

3. Try wired ethernet: If available, a wired connection often resolves persistent streaming issues

4. Change DNS settings: Go to Settings → Network → Network Status → IP Settings → DNS Setting → Enter Manually and use 8.8.8.8 (Google's DNS)

If WiFi remains problematic, consider whether you can connect your Samsung TV to a mobile hotspot as a temporary workaround to test connectivity.

Fix 5: Clear App Cache and Reinstall

For spinning circles that only occur with specific apps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps

2. Select the problematic app

3. Choose Clear Cache

4. If that fails, select Delete and reinstall from the Samsung Apps store

Learning to clear cache on your Samsung TV regularly can prevent many app-related issues before they start.

Fix 6: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

Use this only after all other fixes fail. It erases everything and returns your TV to out-of-box condition.

1. Navigate to Settings → General & Privacy

2. Select Reset

3. Enter your PIN (default is 0000)

4. Select Reset again to confirm

Warning: This erases all settings, downloaded apps, login information, and personalization. You'll need to set up your TV from scratch.

App-Specific Fixes

Netflix spinning circle: Clear app cache first. If that fails, sign out completely, uninstall the app, restart your TV, reinstall Netflix, and sign back in.

YouTube spinning circle: Same process as Netflix. YouTube updates frequently cause temporary compatibility issues with older Samsung TV firmware.

Amazon Prime Video spinning circle: Try switching between the Amazon Prime Video app and the Amazon Freevee app. Sometimes one works when the other doesn't. Also verify your Prime subscription is active.

If your Samsung TV performance feels sluggish overall and not just with circles, you might want to investigate why your Samsung TV is running slow and address underlying causes.

When apps continue misbehaving after cache clearing, knowing how to close apps on your Samsung TV properly can free up memory and stop problematic processes.

If storage limitations are contributing to your TV's performance issues, check our guide on Samsung TV insufficient storage space for solutions.

How to Fix Samsung TV White Circles & Bright Spots (Hardware Fixes)

White spots from fallen diffuser lenses represent a hardware problem requiring either professional repair or careful DIY work. Before you open your TV, exhaust these non-invasive options first.

Non-Invasive Attempts (Try These First)

These won't fix the underlying problem, but they may reduce the visibility of white spots enough to live with:

1. Adjust backlight/brightness settings: Lowering your backlight from 100% to 60-70% makes spots less noticeable

2. Switch picture modes: Try Movie or Cinema mode instead of Dynamic or Standard. These modes use lower backlight levels

3. Enable local dimming: If your TV has this feature, enabling it can reduce the appearance of bright spots

Access these settings through Settings → Picture → Expert Settings. For detailed guidance on optimizing these adjustments, consult our guide on Samsung TV picture settings.

Check Your Warranty First

This is critical: DIY repair VOIDS your warranty. If your TV is less than one year old (or covered by Samsung Care+ or retailer warranty), do not open it. Contact Samsung at 1-800-726-7864 for free warranty repair.

To check warranty status:

• Go to samsung.com/us/support/warranty/

• Or on your TV: Settings → Support → About This TV (note your model and serial number)

DIY Repair Overview

If you're outside warranty and comfortable with electronics, you can fix fallen diffuser lenses yourself. The repair involves removing the TV's back panel, carefully accessing the LED strips, locating the fallen lenses, and reattaching them with clear epoxy.

Typical DIY time: 1-3 hours
Difficulty level: Intermediate
DIY cost: $10-45 (tools and materials)

Tools Required

Before starting, gather:

• Phillips screwdriver set (multiple sizes)

• Plastic pry tools (never use metal)

• Anti-static wrist strap

• Clear epoxy (NOT superglue – it's not heat resistant and can fog)

• Toothpicks for precise epoxy application

• Soft microfiber cloths

• Well-lit workspace

• Phone or camera to document disassembly

Step-by-Step DIY Repair

⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Unplug your TV and wait at least 30 minutes for capacitors to discharge before touching any internal components. Capacitors can hold dangerous charges even when unplugged.

1. Unplug the TV and wait 30 minutes for capacitor discharge

2. Place the TV face-down on a soft surface (blankets work well) to protect the screen

3. Remove all back panel screws (keep them organized – they may be different sizes)

4. Carefully detach ribbon cables, noting their exact positions (take photos)

5. Remove metal frames and diffuser sheets carefully – maintain their order as the sequence matters

6. Locate fallen diffuser lenses on the LED strips (they look like small clear plastic caps)

7. Apply a small amount of clear epoxy to the three attachment points on the lens

8. Position the lens back over its LED and hold until the epoxy sets

9. While the TV is open, check for other loose lenses that might fall soon

10. Reassemble in exact reverse order

⚠️ DO NOT use superglue. It's not heat resistant and will fail again. Worse, superglue fumes can fog the diffuser sheets and permanently damage your screen.

If you're uncomfortable with this process or discover more extensive damage like burned LED strips, professional repair is the better choice. For complete backlight failures, our guide on how to fix backlight on Samsung TV covers additional repair options.

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact a professional repair service if:

• Your TV is under warranty (DIY voids it)

• You're not comfortable with electronics

• Multiple LEDs appear damaged, not just fallen lenses

• You see burn marks or discoloration on LED strips

• The diffuser sheets are damaged or fogged

Repair Cost Comparison

The 50% Rule: Industry guidance suggests repairs costing more than 50% of a comparable new TV's price aren't worthwhile.

How to Fix Samsung TV Circle in Corner (Update Indicator)

That small spinning circle in the upper right corner of your Samsung TV isn't a defect – it's an indicator showing your TV is downloading something, typically a firmware update or app update.

What the Corner Circle Means

When you see this indicator, your TV is actively downloading content from Samsung's servers. This is normal behavior. The circle becomes a problem only when it won't go away or appears constantly.

Why It Gets Stuck

Several things can cause this indicator to persist:

• Slow internet connection causing download timeouts

• Router blocking Samsung update servers

• Incomplete download after power interruption

• Samsung server issues (rare but possible)

Fix 1: Wait It Out

Sometimes the download just needs time. If you've just turned on your TV, wait 5-10 minutes to see if the circle resolves on its own. Background downloads are normal, especially after you've been away for a few days.

Fix 2: Router Power Cycle

1. Unplug your router for 60 seconds

2. Plug it back in

3. Wait for full router restart (2-3 minutes)

4. Restart your TV

This refreshes the network connection and often allows stuck downloads to complete.

Fix 3: Delete and Reestablish WiFi Connection

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Status

2. Select Disconnect

3. Wait 30 seconds

4. Reconnect to your WiFi network

Fix 4: Change DNS Settings

Sometimes ISP-level blocking prevents Samsung updates from downloading:

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Status

2. Select IP Settings

3. Choose DNS Setting → Enter Manually

4. Enter 8.8.8.8 (Google's DNS)

5. Save and test

Fix 5: Disable Auto-Update

If the corner circle is a chronic annoyance rather than a problem:

1. Go to Settings → Support → Software Update

2. Turn off Auto Update

Note: With auto-update disabled, you'll need to manually check for and install Samsung TV firmware updates periodically to keep your TV secure and running smoothly.

For more stable update downloads, consider using a Samsung TV ethernet connection instead of WiFi if you have the option.

Samsung TV Circle Repair Costs: Complete 2026 Price Guide

Understanding repair costs helps you make smart decisions about whether to fix your current TV or invest in a replacement.

DIY Repair Costs

If you're comfortable doing the repair yourself:

Professional Repair Costs (2026 Estimates)

Based on current industry data from HomeAdvisor and Angi:

Labor costs average $60-125 per hour for TV repair technicians.

Cost by TV Size

Larger TVs cost more to repair due to larger parts and more difficult handling:

• 32-43 inch: Lower end of repair ranges

• 50-55 inch: Middle of ranges

• 65+ inch: Higher end of ranges, sometimes 20-30% more

Repair vs. Replace Decision Framework

Use this formula: If repair cost exceeds 50% of new TV price, replacement offers better value.

Consider replacement when:

• Your TV is over 5 years old

• Repair costs exceed $250

• Multiple issues exist beyond just circles

• You want newer features (better HDR, gaming modes, updated smart platform)

For context on current pricing:

• New 50" Samsung TV: $350-600

• New 55" Samsung TV: $400-800

• New 65" Samsung TV: $550-1,200

Before committing to repairs, run through our complete Samsung TV troubleshooting guide to ensure you've identified all issues.

Getting Repair Quotes

1. Get at least 3 quotes from local TV repair shops

2. Ask about warranty on repair work (reputable shops offer 30-90 days)

3. Use Samsung's authorized service locator at samsung.com/us/support/service/locations/

4. Verify technicians are factory-authorized for Samsung

Note: Samsung's own repair service typically costs more than third-party shops but maintains any remaining warranty coverage.

How to Prevent Samsung TV Circle Issues

Taking preventive steps now can extend your TV's lifespan and help you avoid circle problems entirely.

Proper Ventilation

Heat accelerates adhesive degradation on diffuser lenses. Ensure your TV has adequate airflow:

• Maintain 4+ inches clearance on all sides and behind the TV

• Never place TVs in enclosed cabinets without ventilation

• Keep vents clear of dust (clean monthly with a soft brush)

• Avoid positioning near heat sources like radiators or sunny windows

Optimal Backlight Settings

Running your backlight at maximum increases heat generation significantly:

• Use 60-80% backlight for the best balance of brightness and longevity

• Access via Settings → Picture → Expert Settings → Backlight

• Choose Movie or Cinema picture modes, which use lower backlight levels by default

For comprehensive guidance on balancing picture quality with TV longevity, review our Samsung TV picture settings optimization guide.

Use a Surge Protector

Power surges damage LED strips and backlight drivers. Always connect your Samsung TV to a quality surge protector rather than directly to a wall outlet.

Regular Firmware Updates

Keep your TV software updated to prevent software-related spinning circle issues:

• Enable auto-update: Settings → Support → Software Update → Auto Update

• Or check monthly and update manually

Optimal Operating Environment

Samsung TVs perform best in moderate conditions:

• Ideal temperature range: 50-104°F (10-40°C)

• Avoid extremely hot rooms or direct sunlight

• Moderate humidity levels prevent moisture damage

Early Warning Signs

Watch for these indicators that problems may be developing:

• Flickering backlight

• Uneven brightness across the screen

• Occasional white spot that appears and disappears

• TV running hotter than usual

• Longer startup times

Using features like the Samsung TV screensaver can also help reduce static image stress on your display components.

Regular Maintenance

• Keep vents clear of dust

• Don't spray cleaner directly on the screen (use dry microfiber cloth)

• Wipe vents with a slightly damp cloth occasionally

• Power cycle your TV monthly to clear accumulated software issues

Maintaining your TV also includes optimizing your Samsung TV sound settings for the best overall viewing experience.

Samsung TV Warranty & Circle Issues: Claims Guide

Understanding your warranty options can save you hundreds of dollars. Samsung's coverage for circle issues is more comprehensive than many owners realize.

Standard Samsung Warranty

Samsung TVs come with a 1-year limited warranty from date of purchase covering manufacturing defects. This includes:

What's Covered:

• White spots caused by fallen diffuser lenses (manufacturing defect)

• Spinning circles caused by software defects

• Display problems including dead pixels and backlight issues

• Parts and labor for covered repairs

What's NOT Covered:

• Physical damage from drops or impacts

• Power surge damage

• Burn-in from misuse (leaving static images displayed)

• Repairs by unauthorized service centers

• Normal wear and tear

How to Check Warranty Status

Online: Visit samsung.com/us/support/warranty/ with your model number and serial number ready.

On Your TV: Navigate to Settings → Support → About This TV to find your model and serial number.

Find Your Model Number: Look on the back of your TV, or go to Settings → Support → Contact Samsung → Warranty Information.

Not sure how to locate this information? Our guide on finding your Samsung TV model number walks you through every method.

Samsung Care+ Extended Warranty

Samsung offers extended protection beyond the standard warranty:

• Purchase window: Within 30 days of TV purchase

• Coverage duration: Extends warranty 2-4 years

• Includes: Accidental damage protection (standard warranty doesn't cover this)

• How to enroll: samsung.com/us/support/samsung-care-plus/

Retailer Extended Warranties

Major retailers offer their own extended warranty options:

• Best Buy Geek Squad Protection

• Costco (often includes automatic extended warranty on electronics)

• Amazon Protection Plans

Coverage varies by retailer and plan level. Check your purchase receipt for details.

If you're setting up a new TV after deciding to replace rather than repair, our Samsung TV setup guide walks you through the process.

How to File a Warranty Claim

1. Gather information: Model number, serial number, proof of purchase (receipt)

2. Contact Samsung:

   • Phone: 1-800-726-7864

   • Online chat: samsung.com/us/support/

3. Describe the issue: Be specific about circle type, when it started, and any troubleshooting you've attempted

4. Provide documentation: Share photos or videos of the issue

5. Schedule service: For TVs 37" and larger, Samsung arranges in-home repair. Smaller TVs may require carry-in service.

Consumer Protection Beyond Warranty

Even after warranty expires, you may have recourse:

Implied Warranty of Merchantability: In many jurisdictions, products must function as reasonably expected. A TV failing at 18 months might warrant manufacturer intervention.

Credit Card Purchase Protection: Many credit cards extend manufacturer warranties by 1-2 years automatically. Check your card benefits.

Small Claims Court: For persistent defects on expensive TVs, pursuing claims against manufacturers is an option.

Document everything – photos, videos, repair attempts, and all communications with Samsung support.

FAQ: Samsung TV Circle on Screen Questions Answered

What causes white circles on Samsung TV?

White circles on Samsung TVs result from fallen LED diffuser lenses inside the backlight system. These small plastic caps cover each LED and spread light evenly across the screen. When heat-sensitive adhesive fails (typically after 2-5 years), lenses fall off, creating visible bright spots or "orbs."

This is the most common cause affecting Samsung LED TVs manufactured between 2016-2022. The circles typically appear on bright backgrounds first and become more noticeable over time. If you gently shake your TV and hear rattling, fallen lenses are almost certainly the cause.

Can Samsung TV white spots be fixed?

Yes, Samsung TV white spots can be fixed effectively. The most reliable repair involves reattaching fallen LED diffuser lenses using clear epoxy. DIY repair costs $10-45 and takes 1-3 hours. Professional repair costs $100-300 depending on the extent of damage.

If your TV is under Samsung's 1-year warranty, this issue is covered as a manufacturing defect at no charge. Contact Samsung at 1-800-726-7864 with your model and serial number.

Why does my Samsung TV have a spinning circle?

A spinning circle on Samsung TV indicates the system is loading or processing. Common causes include firmware updates downloading in the background, Smart Hub loading failures, app startup issues, network connectivity problems preventing content from buffering, and general system glitches.

Fix by power cycling (unplug for 60 seconds, hold power button while unplugged), updating firmware through Settings → Support → Software Update, or resetting Smart Hub via Settings → Support → Device Care → Self Diagnosis → Reset Smart Hub.

How much does it cost to fix circles on Samsung TV?

The 50% rule applies: if repair costs exceed half the price of a comparable new TV, replacement usually makes more sense.

Is Samsung TV white circles covered by warranty?

Yes, Samsung TV white circles caused by fallen LED diffuser lenses are typically covered under Samsung's 1-year limited warranty as manufacturing defects. Contact Samsung at 1-800-726-7864 with your model number, serial number, and proof of purchase.

Physical damage, power surge damage, and burn-in from misuse are NOT covered. Samsung Care+ extended warranties (2-4 years) also cover white spot repairs.

Is there a recall on Samsung TVs with white circles?

No, Samsung has not issued a recall for TVs with white circles. However, this is a widely recognized manufacturing issue affecting many Samsung LED TVs from certain production years.

If your TV is under warranty, Samsung will repair it free of charge. Outside warranty, consider consumer protection laws regarding implied warranty of merchantability, which may still provide recourse for TVs failing prematurely.

Do all Samsung TVs have the white circle problem?

No, not all Samsung TVs develop white circles. This issue primarily affects LED-backlit models manufactured between 2016-2022 and typically appears 2-5 years after purchase.

Samsung OLED TVs use completely different technology and don't have this specific issue. Many Samsung LED TVs never develop the problem – it depends on manufacturing batch, operating conditions, and environmental factors.

Can Samsung TV circle issues spread to more of the screen?

Yes, Samsung TV white circle issues typically worsen over time. Once one diffuser lens falls due to adhesive degradation, others often follow as the TV ages and the adhesive continues to break down.

If you notice one white spot, more will likely appear. Prompt repair can address multiple loose lenses before they fall, potentially preventing additional spots from developing.

What's the difference between white spots and dead pixels?

White spots are large (0.5-2 inch) circular bright areas caused by fallen backlight diffuser lenses. They're visible across the entire screen and can be fixed by reattaching the lenses.

Dead pixels are tiny, single-point dots barely visible even up close. They're caused by failed LCD pixels in the panel itself. Dead pixels are permanent defects that cannot be repaired without panel replacement.

Why does my Samsung TV show a spinning circle and then turn off?

A spinning circle followed by the TV turning off usually indicates a power supply issue or serious software corruption. The TV attempts to boot, encounters a problem, and shuts down to protect itself.

Try unplugging for 60 seconds, then holding the power button for 30 seconds while unplugged. If the issue persists, the power board may need professional diagnosis. This could also indicate overheating – ensure vents are clear and the TV has adequate ventilation.

Conclusion: Next Steps for Your Samsung TV Circle Issue

Circles on your Samsung TV screen fall into three distinct categories, each with proven solutions. White spots from fallen diffuser lenses require hardware repair – either DIY if you're comfortable or professional service if you prefer expertise. Spinning circles almost always resolve through software troubleshooting, starting with a simple power cycle. Corner update indicators typically resolve themselves or respond to network troubleshooting.

Key takeaways to remember:

Check your warranty status before attempting any DIY hardware repairs. Samsung's 1-year warranty covers manufacturing defects including fallen diffuser lenses, and opening your TV voids this coverage.

Most circle issues ARE fixable. The white spot problem that affects many Samsung LED TVs responds well to diffuser lens reattachment. Software-related spinning circles resolve through power cycling, Smart Hub resets, or firmware updates in the vast majority of cases.

When repair costs approach 50% of a new TV's price, replacement often makes more sense, especially for TVs over 5 years old.

If you've tried these solutions without success:

Contact Samsung support at 1-800-726-7864 for warranty service or professional diagnosis. Have your model number, serial number, and documentation of the issue ready.

For additional help with Samsung TV problems, our comprehensive Samsung TV troubleshooting guide covers a wide range of issues beyond circles.

This guide was last updated on February 1, 2026. Repair costs and procedures may vary. Always check current Samsung support documentation for the most accurate information for your specific TV model.