Changing the refresh rate on your monitor in Windows 10 can enhance your viewing experience by making motions appear smoother and reducing screen flickering. This guide will walk you through the steps to adjust your monitor’s refresh rate, ensuring you’re getting the best performance out of your display.
How to Change Refresh Rate on Monitor Windows 10
Here’s what you need to do to change your monitor’s refresh rate in Windows 10. Each step ensures you get the most clear and smooth visuals possible for gaming, videos, or even just day-to-day computing.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon, or by pressing the Windows + I keys on your keyboard.
The Settings app is your one-stop-shop for customizing Windows. You can also search for it directly using the Start menu’s search bar.
Step 2: Navigate to System
Next, click on "System" from the list of options within the Settings app.
The System settings include everything related to display, sound, notifications, and power, which is where you’ll find the refresh rate settings.
Step 3: Go to Display Settings
Click on "Display" in the left-hand sidebar.
In the Display section, you can adjust various settings related to your monitor, including resolution and orientation. Keep your eyes here for the next step.
Step 4: Advanced Display Settings
Scroll down and click on "Advanced display settings."
This is where you get into the nitty-gritty details about your monitor’s capabilities and current settings.
Step 5: Display Adapter Properties
Click on "Display adapter properties for Display 1" (or Display 2 if you have multiple monitors).
This will open a new window with more settings specific to your graphic card and display.
Step 6: Monitor Tab
Navigate to the "Monitor" tab in the new window.
This is where you’ll find the dropdown menu to change the refresh rate.
Step 7: Choose a Refresh Rate
Select a new refresh rate from the dropdown menu and click "Apply."
Make sure to select a refresh rate that your monitor supports to avoid any display issues. Confirm the changes if prompted.
After completing these steps, you should notice your display refreshing at the new rate. This can make a big difference in the smoothness of animations and video playback.
Tips for Changing Refresh Rate on Monitor Windows 10
- Verify Monitor Specifications: Before changing the refresh rate, check your monitor’s manual or website to see which refresh rates it supports.
- Updated Drivers: Ensure your graphics drivers are up-to-date for the best performance and compatibility.
- Resolution Matters: Higher refresh rates may require lower resolutions depending on your monitor and graphics card capabilities.
- Multiple Monitors: If you have more than one monitor, make sure to change the refresh rate for each one individually.
- Test Different Rates: Experiment with different refresh rates to find what looks best to you, but don’t go above what’s recommended by your monitor manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see higher refresh rates in the dropdown menu?
Your monitor or graphics card might not support higher refresh rates, or you might need to update your drivers.
Is it safe to change the refresh rate?
Yes, as long as you select a refresh rate that’s supported by your monitor.
Will changing the refresh rate improve gaming?
A higher refresh rate can make animations smoother, which is particularly beneficial in fast-paced games.
What should I do if my screen goes black after changing the refresh rate?
Wait a few seconds, and Windows should revert to the previous setting. If not, restart your computer in Safe Mode and change the refresh rate back.
Does refresh rate affect battery life on laptops?
Higher refresh rates can consume more power, which might reduce battery life on laptops.
Summary
- Open Settings: Windows + I keys.
- Navigate to System: Click "System."
- Go to Display Settings: Click "Display."
- Advanced Display Settings: Scroll and click.
- Display Adapter Properties: Click for Display 1.
- Monitor Tab: Navigate here.
- Choose a Refresh Rate: Select and apply.
Conclusion
Changing the refresh rate on your monitor in Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to enhance your visual experience. Whether you’re a gamer looking for smoother gameplay or just want to reduce eye strain from flickering, updating this setting can make a noticeable difference.
Always ensure you’re using a rate supported by your monitor to avoid any potential issues. Experiment with different rates to find the one that best suits your needs. For further reading, check out articles and forums discussing optimal monitor settings based on your specific usage.
Now that you know how to change the refresh rate on your monitor in Windows 10, you’re equipped to make your viewing experience as smooth and crisp as possible. So go ahead, tweak those settings, and enjoy the difference!
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.