FAQ
TL;DR: On EliteBook 850 G2, white spots usually indicate pressure damage; replacements cost approx PLN 236, and “the matrix will need to be replaced.” [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065190]
Why it matters: For HP EliteBook 850 G2 owners deciding whether to buy, repair, or ignore white screen spots, this explains diagnosis, risks, and costs.
Quick Facts
- Discussed unit: 15.6-inch, 1920×1080 matte LCD on HP EliteBook 850 G2. [Elektroda, scorpionx, post #17065124]
- Root cause: point pressure on the LCD layers creating bright blotches. [Elektroda, miwi, post #17065100]
- Quick test: connect an external monitor; if it’s clean, the laptop LCD is at fault. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065095]
- Parts pricing: approx PLN 150 (non‑FHD) to PLN 236 (15.6-inch FHD). [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065190]
- Ongoing pressure risk: keys or objects pressing the lid can worsen spots or trigger bad pixels. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065168]
What causes small white spots on an HP EliteBook 850 G2 screen?
White spots are pressure marks inside the LCD layers. Point pressure compresses the diffusion sheet and alters light transmission. This is a hardware defect, not a software issue. The durable remedy is panel replacement, not drivers or calibration. [Elektroda, miwi, post #17065100]
How can I tell if it’s the LCD panel or the graphics card?
Use a quick external-display test.
- Connect an external monitor or TV via HDMI/DisplayPort.
- Mirror the display and show a mid-gray background.
- If the external image is clean, the laptop LCD is faulty, not the GPU. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065095]
Can I fix white spots without replacing the LCD?
No. Pressure damage won’t disappear with apps or pixel rub tricks. Attempts can worsen artifacts. As one expert said, “Replacement of the matrix.” The correct fix is swapping the panel. [Elektroda, miwi, post #17065100]
Will the white spots get bigger or turn into dead pixels?
Without ongoing pressure, spots remain stable. Ongoing pressure can worsen them and trigger bad pixels. Check whether keys or the lid press the screen when closed. Remove pressure sources to stop progression. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065168]
How much does a replacement screen cost for the 850 G2?
Approx PLN 150 for non‑FHD panels and around PLN 236 for 15.6-inch FHD. These are parts-only figures reported by experienced users. Match resolution when ordering to avoid compatibility issues. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065190]
Is screen replacement DIY-friendly for first-timers?
It’s risky for beginners. Not every matrix will work, and compatibility varies. Inexperienced handling can damage bezels, cables, or the new panel. If you lack practice, use a trusted service. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065197]
Are there design or handling issues that make this model’s screens fail?
Yes. This series uses fragile plastics around the display. Lifting the laptop by the lid can damage the panel. Edge case: image shaking or flicker like untuned analog TV may follow, leading to unusable display. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065212]
How do I check if keyboard keys are pressing the screen when closed?
Close the lid and look for keycap imprints after reopening. Ensure nothing presses the screen during transport. If you see contact evidence, add a thin screen protector or change carry methods to remove pressure. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065168]
Will the spots affect everyday work like office or browsing?
For most office tasks, users adapt quickly and work comfortably. Spots are most visible on flat backgrounds and imaging tasks. Many report it does not interfere much with typical workflows. Try darker wallpapers to reduce distraction. [Elektroda, miwi, post #17065150]
Does an OS reinstall or wallpaper change cause these spots?
No. The OS or wallpaper only made the issue visible. The underlying cause is physical pressure damage in the LCD layers. Focus on hardware diagnosis and replacement rather than software changes. [Elektroda, miwi, post #17065100]
What’s the safest way to keep the issue from worsening?
Remove all pressure sources. Do not carry the laptop by the lid. Ensure the keyboard or objects do not press the panel when closed or in a bag. These steps reduce progression and bad pixel risk. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065168]
Can I just use a dock and external monitor as a workaround?
Yes. Drive an external display via HDMI/DisplayPort or a dock. If the external image is clean, you can work normally while planning or deferring a panel replacement. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065095]
How do I pick a compatible replacement panel for this laptop?
Confirm resolution, connector, and vendor compatibility before buying. Not every matrix will work in this model. A repair shop can source a tested-compatible panel to avoid returns or fitting issues. [Elektroda, max-bit, post #17065197]
Should I buy an 850 G2 with minor white spots if discounted?
It depends on your tolerance and budget. The series shows fragile display plastics and potential future flicker. If the discount offsets a possible replacement, it can still be a reasonable purchase. [Elektroda, be-be, post #17065212]
