On Windows 11, the ability to find out the display information can come in handy in a lot of situations. For instance, you can determine the brand and model to get a replacement or a second display to configure a multi-monitor setup. You can quickly check whether the device supports advanced features, such as High Dynamic Range (HDR) or Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR). You can also determine the specifications to make sure your device meets the requirement (refresh rate, bit depth, color format, resolution, etc.) for specific applications like gaming or video editing.
Whatever the reason, Windows 11 includes a page in the Settings app that makes it easy to view the display specifications and capabilities.
In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to find the built-in display or external monitor connected to your computer.
How to view display specs on Windows 11
To view the display or external monitor specifications, use these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Click on System.
- Click the Display page on the right side.
- Under the "Related settings" section, click on the Advanced display setting.
- Use the "Select a display to view or change its settings" drop-down menu to choose the monitor to view its information (if applicable).
- Under the "Display information" section, confirm the brand and model number.
- Confirm the display specification, including:
- Desktop mode: Shows the pixel resolution and refresh rate mode.
- Active signal mode: Specifies the current pixel resolution and refresh rate the system uses.
- Bit depth: Describes the number of bits the display can use to represent each pixel of an image. Usually, this number would be 8-bit for most regular panels and 10-bit or higher for premium panels.
- Color format: Shows the color format that the display is currently using — for example, RGB.
- Color space: Specifies whether the display uses Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) or High Dynamic Range (HDR).
- In the "Choose a refresh rate" setting, confirm if one of the options reads "Dynamic."Quick note: If the Dynamic option is present, the display supports Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR). This feature allows Windows 11 to dynamically increase or decrease the refresh rate on supported hardware. Usually, this option is available for monitors with 120hz or higher.
- Confirm whether the display is certified as an HDR-capable device.Quick note: On high-quality HDR displays, the page will show its HDR certifications.
- Click the Display adapter properties for option to view the graphics card brand, model, and other information (if applicable).
Once you complete the steps, you will better understand the monitor's capabilities and configuration.
More Windows resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
- Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
- Windows 11 help, tips, and tricks
- Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know
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.
