Lowering the brightness on a Windows 10 computer is a simple task that can improve your viewing experience and reduce eye strain. Whether you’re working late into the night or just need to give your eyes a break, adjusting the screen brightness is a handy skill. It can be done quickly by using the settings menu, keyboard shortcuts, or the Action Center. Once you know how to do it, you’ll be able to easily adjust your screen to suit any environment.
How to Lower the Brightness on Windows 10
Adjusting your screen brightness on Windows 10 involves a few straightforward steps that can be completed in minutes. Let’s dive into the process.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings.
This step takes you to the central hub where you can control various aspects of your computer, including display settings. If clicking sounds too old-school, a quick press of the Windows key + I on your keyboard will whisk you there in no time.
Step 2: Access System Settings
Click on the “System” option in the Settings menu.
Here, you’ll find all the nifty tools to tweak your system’s settings. It’s like opening a toolbox whose content can transform your device’s usability, from display adjustments to sound settings.
Step 3: Select Display
In the System menu, click “Display” on the left panel.
This is where the magic happens. The Display section offers controls for adjusting your screen resolution, orientation, and—you guessed it—brightness.
Step 4: Adjust Brightness Slider
Locate the brightness slider and move it left to lower the brightness.
This slider is your ticket to a more comfortable viewing experience. Sliding it to the left reduces brightness, making your screen easier on the eyes, especially in dim lighting.
Step 5: Experiment and Confirm
Test different levels to find what suits you best, and confirm your choice.
Once you’ve found the perfect setting, give yourself a pat on the back for making your screen just right. If it feels like a Goldilocks moment, that’s because it is!
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 screen will be dimmer, easing the strain on your eyes and possibly extending your battery life. A well-adjusted screen is like a pair of sunglasses—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it before.
Tips for Lowering the Brightness on Windows 10
- Use keyboard shortcuts for quick adjustments, usually by pressing the function key (Fn) with a brightness key.
- Turn on Night Light mode for an extra layer of eye comfort during evening hours.
- Adjust brightness manually in different environments to find your comfort zone.
- Consider third-party apps if you need more advanced brightness controls.
- Regularly review your brightness settings to keep your eyes healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I quickly adjust brightness without using Settings?
Using keyboard shortcuts is the fastest way. These keys usually have a sun icon and can be adjusted by pressing the Fn key + the brightness key.
Is it possible to automatically adjust brightness based on my environment?
Yes, if your device has a built-in ambient light sensor, you can enable automatic brightness adjustment in the Display settings.
What should I do if the brightness slider is missing?
Check for driver updates for your display adapters. Outdated drivers can cause the brightness slider to disappear.
Can adjusting brightness save battery life?
Lowering brightness can indeed extend your device’s battery life, making it a nifty way to stay unplugged for longer.
Is there a way to adjust brightness during specific times of day?
Yes, you can schedule the Night Light feature to automatically adjust the brightness and color temperature during certain hours.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Access System Settings.
- Select Display.
- Adjust Brightness Slider.
- Experiment and Confirm.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks—a quick guide on how to lower the brightness on your Windows 10 device. This simple adjustment can make a world of difference, especially if you find yourself staring at a screen for long periods. Think of it as putting on a comfortable pair of slippers after a long day; your eyes will thank you.
If you’re digging this newfound knowledge, why not explore other Windows 10 features that can enhance your user experience even further? Dive into settings you haven’t yet explored, like Night Light mode or power management, to make your device work even better for you.
Got more questions? The Windows community is vast and always ready to help. Don’t hesitate to share this guide with friends and family who might also benefit. After all, a well-informed user is a happy user. Happy adjusting!

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.