HDR (high dynamic range) makes supported games and videos look brighter and more vivid, but on many monitors it makes the Windows desktop look washed out, dim, or oversaturated. If Windows 10 switched HDR on, or you turned it on and don’t like the look, you can switch it off in seconds. This guide covers the Settings method, a shortcut, streaming video HDR, and fixes for a washed-out screen.
Quick Answer
Go to Settings > System > Display, click Windows HD Color settings, choose your monitor, and turn Use HDR (called Play HDR games and apps in some versions) Off.
Turn Off HDR in Settings
- Right-click the desktop and choose Display settings (or open Settings > System > Display).
- If you have multiple monitors, select the HDR one at the top.
- Click Windows HD Color settings (under Windows HD Color).
- Under Choose display, confirm the right monitor.
- Turn Use HDR (or Play HDR games and apps) Off.
The screen may flicker briefly as it switches modes.
Keyboard Shortcut
On many PCs with Xbox Game Bar installed and up to date, Windows + Alt + B toggles HDR on and off. If it doesn’t work on your PC, use the Settings method.
Streaming Video HDR
This separate setting controls HDR for streaming video apps. In Windows HD Color settings, turn Stream HDR video off if streamed video looks too dark or oversaturated. On laptops, Battery options in the same page can turn HDR off automatically on battery.
Screen Still Looks Washed Out?
- Adjust SDR brightness: if you keep HDR on, use the HDR/SDR brightness balance slider to make regular content brighter.
- Check the monitor’s HDR mode: many monitors have their own HDR or picture mode in the on-screen menu; set it to Standard or SDR.
- Update the graphics driver from your GPU maker.
- Calibrate: search Start for Calibrate display color and follow the steps, or reset your graphics control panel’s color settings to default.
- Check the cable: older HDMI cables may not support HDR properly; use a certified high-speed cable or DisplayPort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does HDR make my desktop look gray?
Windows maps standard (SDR) content into the HDR range, and on monitors with limited brightness this can look dull. It’s a display limitation, not a fault.
Do I need HDR on for HDR games and movies?
Yes. Turn it on before playing, and off afterward if you prefer the desktop in SDR. Some games can switch it automatically.
Why don’t I see the HDR option?
Your display, cable, or graphics card doesn’t support HDR, or your Windows 10 version is out of date. The capabilities table in Windows HD Color settings shows what’s supported.
Summary
- Open Settings > System > Display > Windows HD Color settings.
- Turn Use HDR Off for your display.
- Try Windows + Alt + B as a shortcut.
- Turn off Stream HDR video or check your monitor’s settings if colors still look wrong.
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.