Persistent horizontal lines appear on iMac screen

I am reaching out to share an ongoing issue I, along with several other users, have been experiencing with our iMac 24-inch models, and to seek a collective resolution.


Problem Description:

  • Persistent horizontal lines appear on the screen, which significantly hampers the usability and visual appeal of the device.
  • This problem arises without any physical damage, and despite the stationary nature of the device.


Steps Taken:

  • Connected to an external display: The external display works fine, indicating the issue is with the iMac's internal display.
  • Reinstalled the OS: The problem persisted post reinstallation.
  • Avoided operating the iMac for a week: No change in the situation.


Concerns:

  • The cost of screen replacement is high, and there's no assurance that it will resolve the issue permanently.
  • The quality concern is alarming especially for a brand that positions itself as a premium segment player.
  • The support received thus far has been unsatisfactory, with no definitive solutions provided apart from a costly screen replacement suggestion.





Please do not ask us to visit to service center and replace the screen for 650USD + , problem happens mostly after warranty.


[Edited by Moderator]

iMac (M1, 2021)

Posted on Oct 21, 2023 10:40 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 7, 2024 9:45 AM

To make the best of a bad situation you could always use a separate monitor with the iMac. It's an annoyance given that there's already a display taking up desk space but at least you wouldn't have to get another computer. I kept several older iMacs going that way. Just make sure that if the display is really starting to go that you set this up before it is fully gone. You set up the second display as mirroring the first one and with iMacs this has to be done while you can still navigate the main display.

Similar questions

483 replies

Mar 9, 2024 4:48 AM in response to latVm

It seems like more and more Mac users are experiencing this line problems with their computers. Apple should be able to address and find solutions for this issue, as even users with newly purchased units are facing the same problem. This is a product defect issue. They should make sure to test their product before releasing to public.






Apr 7, 2024 1:17 AM in response to latVm

I had purchased my iMac M1 in July 2021... And today, 7th April 2024, I was surprised to see this lines on the screen... Even more surprised to see so many folks have got affected with same issues... in hardly 2 years of usage.


So much for the Apple Long lasting durable product ... can be thrown out of the window. Spending so much amount for display replacement can be equal to buying a new PC/Mac itself...


All the more ridiculous now to spend more money on buying an external monitor in hardly 2-3 years to continue using existing bad-screen iMac or end up buying a new one altogether :(


And since it's not in warranty.... Apple will care a **** to have this rectified / resolved / addressed !!


If anyone has found any way forward with software update or any other way to resolve this issue, pls let me know !!




Apr 14, 2024 9:59 PM in response to latVm


I got an iMac (24”, M1, 2021) in July 2021 when it first came out, almost 3 years ago. It has been in daily use since; however, last week flickering black horizontal lines suddenly started appearing in the bottom half of the screen.


Even after restarting and updating, the annoying lines keep appearing on the screen, making it unusable. Turned the iMac off for a few days, but the problem persists. Apart from the screen, everything else is working as it should.


It’s very frustrating to use the iMac with these unnoticeable, irritating horizontal lines on the screen. It's such a disappointment to see this issue; without a cause, within such short time.

Apr 17, 2024 6:56 AM in response to PedroEBR

Whatever be the culprit, once it comes, it'll never go... and will only keep expanding all thru the monitor. Mine keeps juggling between half the screen space and one-fourth. I've already ordered an external monitor as back-up to continue using my iMac M1 model with horizontal lines, as over a period of time u will get EYE STRAIN working on it seeing those horizontal lines flicker all thru the day :(

Apr 20, 2024 5:49 AM in response to latVm

Hi there,

I'm having the same problem with my iMac. While I'm on a video call, my screen suddenly doesn't look right, like it's covered with a screen. Tried restarting, updating the system, and safe mode to no avail.


I bought it in the UK in September 2021. The specific model is MGPH3B/A. iMac m1 4 ports.


I was originally going to follow the advice of Apple customer service and take it to an Apple store. Thank you everyone for your comments, which saved me a time-consuming and labor-intensive journey. Replacing the screen is really expensive. I'll probably look for any replacement monitors with a similar resolution to the iMac.


Hope to see any updates.

Apr 25, 2024 8:29 PM in response to latVm

This problem was posted 6 months ago and there is still no solution?


This happened to me yesterday and I thought leaving it a day would solve the issue. Now I am looking for solutions online and the amount of users experiencing this is shocking. I’ve been using my iMac for a little over 2 years as well. What’s happening? Apple, do something.

May 13, 2024 5:43 AM in response to latVm

Woke up this morning to find I also have this same issue on my iMac. This is not only distressing, but ****** me off as I cannot afford to replace or repair it. I have only had this machine for two years (like everyone else) and it has shown no other issues until today. Interestingly enough, the lines do not show up if I take a screen shot of the display. This is not Steve Jobs' Apple anymore, this company has turned to trash IMNSHO.

May 14, 2024 6:29 PM in response to JuanMunoz

nope, if you tried replace it from outside apple service center or another AASP (cheaper price) you will loose true tone feature (on your new display that you replace) it's because need some system configuration from the Apple (it's apple secret) and it will happen and all Apple product (with the display of course), and something you need to consider is, will this happen again in two year after you are replace it?

May 14, 2024 7:08 PM in response to qwertyHell

Looks like 90 days to me...


6. Apple warrants for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of service (1) that service will be performed in a competent and workmanlike manner and (2) that all parts used to service your product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship, unless otherwise specified by Apple.


And possibly even get a used part!


5. Apple may use parts or products that are new or previously used Apple genuine parts that have been tested and passed Apple functional requirements


Legal - Repair Terms and Conditions - Apple


Persistent horizontal lines appear on iMac screen

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