How to change display refresh rate on Windows 11

By Mauro Huculak
published

Here are the steps to set the correct refresh rate on your Windows 11 device.

Windows 11 change refresh rate
Windows 11 change refresh rate (Image credit: Windows Central)

Refresh rate is measured in Hertz (Hz), and it defines the number of times an image appears on the screen per second. Generally speaking, the faster the image changes (or refreshes) on the display, the better and smoother the viewing experience. On the other hand, the slower the images refresh on the screen, the less smooth the experience will be, causing screen flickering, headaches, and eye strain.

Although Windows 11 can automatically configure the optimal refresh rate, you may sometimes need to change the settings manually depending on the situation. For example, if you have a monitor that supports a higher refresh rate of 144Hz or higher, typically found on gaming displays. Or you notice some flickering because the monitor may be using a lower refresh rate.

Whatever the reason it might be, the Settings app makes it easy to adjust the refresh rate of the device. In addition, you can now also enable Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) on supported hardware. Dynamic Refresh Rate is a feature available on Windows 11 and higher releases that automatically increases or lowers the refresh rate on high-refresh panels while inking or scrolling for a smoother experience while conserving battery life.

In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to change the display's refresh rate using the Settings app.

How to adjust monitor refresh rate on Windows 11

On Windows 11, there are two ways to control the refresh rate. You can specify a specific rate or enable Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) if the hardware is supported.

Change refresh rate

To adjust the refresh rate on your computer, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on System.
  3. Click the Display page on the right side.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. Under the "Related settings" section, click on the Advanced display setting.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. Under the "Display information" section, select the optional refresh rate with the "Choose a refresh rate" setting.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

Once you complete the steps, the system will apply the new setting, and the monitor will start using the new refresh rate.

Enable Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR)

To enable or disable Dynamic Refresh Rate on Windows 11, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on System.
  3. Click the Display page on the right side.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. Under the "Related settings" section, click on the Advanced display setting.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)
  1. In the "Choose a refresh rate" setting, select the Dynamic option. (Option only available on supported hardware.)

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

After you complete the steps, Windows 11 will increase or lower the refresh rate dynamically to conserve power.

If you change your mind, you can always revert the changes using these steps, but on step 5, select the rate you want to use for the display.

More Windows resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

Mauro Huculak
Mauro Huculak

Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.