Easing Video Artifacts on LG WebOS 55C8 2025

The LG WebOS 55C8 introduced in 2025 offers a vibrant 4K experience and a sleek interface that many streamers love. Yet, some users report unwanted visual glitches—pixel clumps, strange color distortion, or sudden compression noise that mar an otherwise crisp picture. These “video artifacts” can be frustrating, especially when you’re streaming a high‑definition movie or gaming in HDR. The good news is that most issues are not hardware failures but simple settings or cable misconfigurations. This guide walks you through every step you can take to eliminate or at least reduce those annoyances.

Understanding Video Artifacts on the 55C8

Video artifacts manifest in several ways, each pointing to a different underlying cause. Familiarizing yourself with the common types can help you pinpoint the right solution faster.

Compression Artifacts

Modern streaming services compress video to reduce bandwidth usage. When the compression is too aggressive, you may notice blocky areas, especially around moving objects. These blocky patterns are called “compression artifacts.” They are most noticeable in scenes with high motion or complex color patterns, such as a soccer match or an action movie.

Color Banding

Color banding occurs when gradients of color appear as distinct steps rather than smooth transitions. This is usually a result of the TV’s internal processing or the source signal’s color depth. It’s common in skies or gradients that are meant to be seamless.

Pixelation and Noise

Pixelation can happen when the TV receives a lower resolution signal but attempts to upscale it. Random noise or speckles may also appear when the input signal is weak or interference-laden.

Flickering and Stuttering

Rapid flicker or frame drops are usually related to HDMI handshakes or power‑saving modes that throttle bandwidth temporarily.

Input‑Related Issues

If the problem only occurs on a particular input—e.g., HDMI 1 versus HDMI 2—it might be due to a faulty cable or a setting in that input’s configuration.

Step 1: Verify Your Cables and Ports

Even a brand‑new TV can display artifacts if the cable is sub‑standard or if the port is damaged.

1. Use certified HDMI cables that meet at least HDMI 2.0 specifications. The 55C8 supports 4K @ 60Hz with HDR, so you’ll need cables that can handle the bandwidth.
2. Check both ends of the cable for dust, loose pins, or visible damage. Even a minor bend can degrade signal quality.
3. Switch to another HDMI port. The 55C8’s ports are equivalent, but a port might be temporarily malfunctioning.
4. Try a different source device (e.g., another streaming stick or set‑top box) to rule out a device‑specific issue.
5. Test with a different cable if you have one available.

If artifacts disappear after changing cables or ports, you’ve identified the root cause. Otherwise, move to the next step.

Step 2: Update Firmware and Apps

LG frequently releases software updates that improve signal processing and fix bugs.

1. Navigate to Settings → All Settings → Support.
2. Select Software Update. If an update is available, install it.
3. Restart the TV after installation.
4. Update your streaming apps (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) from the LG Content Store.

A firmware update often improves compression handling and enhances HDR processing, reducing the likelihood of artifacts.

Step 3: Adjust Picture Settings

The 55C8 offers a sophisticated picture configuration. A few tweaks can eliminate many artifact types.

Picture Mode

• Set the TV to “Standard” or “Movie” mode.
• Avoid “Dynamic” or “Game” modes if you’re watching streaming content, as these modes enhance brightness and may amplify compression artifacts.

HDR Settings

• If the source supports HDR10 or Dolby Vision, ensure that HDR is enabled in the TV’s settings.
• Disable HDR10+ if it’s causing banding. Some users find that turning it off gives a cleaner image on certain streaming services.

Noise Reduction

• Turn off Noise Reduction. While it can smooth grainy footage, it often introduces blockiness.
• If you prefer a subtle effect, enable Noise Reduction – Low instead.

Contrast and Sharpness

• Set Contrast to “High” (recommended level).
• Keep Sharpness at 0; increasing sharpness often exaggerates compression blocks.

Color Temperature

• Choose “Warm” for a natural skin tone.
• Avoid “Cool” unless you’re specifically tuning for a particular look.

3D Settings

• Disable any 3D settings that might be active, as they can interfere with flat‑screen rendering.

Step 4: Check HDMI 2.0 Settings

The 55C8’s HDMI ports can operate in different modes. Mismatched modes can lead to artifacts.

1. Open Settings → All Settings → TV → HDMI Settings.
2. Set HDMI Mode to “Automatic”.
3. If you use an external processor or gaming console, set the specific port to “HDMI 2.0” to match the source’s capabilities.

Step 5: Reset the TV to Factory Defaults

A lingering misconfiguration can be difficult to isolate. Resetting restores default picture processing.

1. Go to Settings → All Settings → General.
2. Select Reset to Initial Settings.
3. Confirm the reset and let the TV reboot.

After the reset, re‑apply the picture settings from Step 3. Test the source again. If artifacts persist, proceed to the next step.

Step 6: Test With Multiple Sources

Sometimes the problem is isolated to a particular streaming service or content type.

1. Play a high‑quality, locally stored 4K video on a USB drive.
2. Stream a different service (e.g., try a free app like Tubi or a paid service like HBO Max).
3. Switch to a non‑HDR source (like an SD or 720p stream).

If artifacts only appear on certain services, it could be a compression setting on the server side. In that case, contact the service’s support team.

Step 7: Reduce Interference

Electromagnetic interference can degrade the HDMI signal, producing noise or flicker.

1. Move power cords and cables away from the HDMI path.
2. Place the TV on a solid, flat surface; avoid placing it on metal tables that can act as antennas.
3. Keep other high‑frequency devices (wireless routers, baby monitors) a few feet away from the TV.

Step 8: Use an HDMI Extender or Switcher

If you need to run a cable longer than 5 meters or connect multiple devices, consider a powered HDMI extender or switcher that supports HDMI 2.0. These devices can preserve signal integrity over longer distances.

Step 9: Enable Ultra‑HD Streaming

If you consistently experience compression artifacts on streaming services, the provider may have a “Ultra‑HD” option. Enabling it forces higher bitrate streams.

1. Open the streaming app.
2. Look for Settings → Video Quality.
3. Select “Auto” or “4K” (depending on your internet speed).

Tip: A wired Ethernet connection provides the most stable bandwidth. If you’re on Wi‑Fi, make sure the signal strength is strong and avoid using the 5 GHz band if it’s not reliable.

Step 10: Consult LG Support

When all else fails, contact LG support or visit a service center. Provide them with:

• A detailed description of the artifacts.
• The steps you’ve already tried.
• Any error messages displayed on the TV screen.
• The make and model of the source device(s).

Professional technicians can run diagnostics and, if necessary, replace components.

Common Questions

What if the artifacts only appear during gaming?

The TV’s Game Mode enhances motion handling but can sometimes introduce banding. Try switching to Standard mode while gaming. If the issue remains, check the console’s output resolution and HDR settings.

Can I get rid of all artifacts without changing the picture mode?

You can minimize artifacts by fine‑tuning Contrast, Sharpness, and Noise Reduction, but some compression is inevitable with streaming. Choosing Movie mode typically gives the best balance between clarity and fidelity.

Why do artifacts reappear after a firmware update?

New firmware can alter the TV’s internal processing pipeline. If the update brings new HDR handling, some sources might not be fully compatible. Re‑apply your custom picture settings or contact LG support for firmware patches.

Visual Reference

Below is an illustration of the 55C8’s picture settings menu, highlighting the key adjustments discussed above.

Final Thoughts

Video artifacts can be frustrating, but most of the time they are solvable with a systematic approach. By starting with cables, updating firmware, fine‑tuning picture settings, and ruling out source‑specific issues, you’ll often restore the crystal‑clear picture that the 55C8 is capable of delivering. If, after all these steps, the problem persists, the issue may be deeper—perhaps a failing HDMI port or internal processing fault—requiring professional help. Until then, enjoy a smoother streaming experience on your LG WebOS 55C8.