The difference between set zeros algorithm and cavitation algorithm is examined in solving modified Reynolds equation,and the film pressure and characteristics of bearing lubricated with couple stress fluids are calculated.The numerical results show that the film pressure distribution is almost the same in full film region except for a little difference at film rupture point,while the difference is considerably large in cavitation region.The distinction of bearing characteristics solved by different algorithms decrease with increasing couple stress parameter.Compared with set zeros algorithm,cavitation algorithm is more consistent with real working conditions.