Adjusting the brightness on a Dell laptop running Windows 10 is straightforward. You can quickly modify it using keyboard shortcuts, the Action Center, or the Settings menu. This guide will walk you through all the steps, ensuring your screen is at the perfect brightness for your needs.
How to Adjust Brightness on Dell Laptop Windows 10
In this section, we will cover different methods to adjust the brightness on your Dell laptop. Whether you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, the Action Center, or the Settings menu, these steps will get you to the right screen brightness in no time.
Step 1: Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Most Dell laptops have dedicated keys for brightness adjustment.
Look for the keys with sun icons, usually found on the function keys (F1, F2, etc.). Pressing these keys while holding the "Fn" key will increase or decrease your screen brightness.
Step 2: Access the Action Center
Open the Action Center to find a convenient brightness slider.
Click on the notification icon at the bottom right of the screen. Inside the Action Center, locate the brightness slider and adjust it to your preference.
Step 3: Use the Settings Menu
You can access brightness settings through the Windows Settings menu.
Press the "Windows" key + "I" to open Settings, then go to "System" and click on "Display." Use the brightness slider to adjust your screen brightness.
Step 4: Adjust Brightness via Battery Settings
Brightness settings are also available in the battery settings menu.
Click on the battery icon in the system tray. Select "Battery settings" and adjust the brightness slider that appears.
Step 5: Use Windows Mobility Center
Another quick way to adjust brightness is through the Windows Mobility Center.
Press "Windows" key + "X" and select "Mobility Center." Here, you’ll find a brightness slider to make your adjustments.
After completing these steps, your screen brightness will be set to your desired level, making it easier on your eyes whether you’re working in a dark room or a bright environment.
Tips for Adjusting Brightness on Dell Laptop Windows 10
- Adjust brightness according to your environment to reduce eye strain.
- Use "Night Light" mode in Windows 10 for a warmer screen color in the evening.
- Keep your display’s drivers updated to avoid brightness adjustment issues.
- If your brightness function keys are not working, check the Dell QuickSet utility.
- Occasionally reset your brightness settings if your screen seems too dim or too bright.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my brightness adjustment keys work?
Sometimes, function keys may require driver updates or the Dell QuickSet utility to function properly.
How can I adjust brightness if the slider is missing?
You may need to update your display drivers or use an alternative method like the Action Center.
Can I set different brightness levels for battery and plugged-in modes?
Yes, you can set different brightness levels in the battery settings for when your laptop is plugged in or running on battery.
Does adjusting brightness affect battery life?
Yes, lowering your screen brightness can extend your laptop’s battery life.
Is there a way to automatically adjust brightness?
Windows 10 offers an option to automatically adjust brightness based on ambient light if your laptop has a light sensor.
Summary of Steps
- Use keyboard shortcuts.
- Access the Action Center.
- Use the Settings menu.
- Adjust brightness via battery settings.
- Use the Windows Mobility Center.
Conclusion
Adjusting the brightness on your Dell laptop running Windows 10 is essential for maintaining eye comfort and extending battery life. Whether you’re using keyboard shortcuts, the Action Center, or navigating through the Settings menu, it’s a simple task that can significantly enhance your user experience.
Remember to adapt your screen brightness to your environment to reduce eye strain and improve visibility. If you encounter any issues, updating your display drivers or checking for utility programs like Dell QuickSet can often resolve the problem. For further reading, explore more Windows 10 features to optimize your laptop’s performance.
So, go ahead, try these steps and make your screen brightness perfect for your needs!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.