Home >
Think Tank > How to Adjust Refresh Rate in Windows 11
The refresh rate determines how many times your monitor updates the image every second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz). For example, a 60Hz display refreshes the image 60 times per second, while a 144Hz display can refresh it 144 times per second.
A higher refresh rate can make scrolling, animations, and
gaming feel smoother. If your monitor supports multiple refresh rates, Windows 11 lets you change the setting directly from Display settings.
How to Change the Refresh Rate in Windows 11
Step 1. Open Advanced Display
Right-click an empty area of the desktop and select Display settings. Scroll down and click Advanced display.
Step 2. Select the Display
If you have multiple monitors, select the display you want to configure.
Step 3. Choose a Refresh Rate
Find the Choose a refresh rate section. Click the drop-down menu and select the refresh rate you want to use(if the option is available).
Windows 11 will apply the new setting automatically, and your screen may briefly go black while Windows applies the change.
How to Enable Dynamic Refresh Rate
Some Windows 11 devices support
Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR). DRR availability depends on your display and hardware. This feature automatically adjusts the refresh rate depending on what you are doing. It can provide smoother motion when needed while helping reduce power consumption during less demanding tasks.
Step 1. Open Settings
Press the Win + I shortcut on your keyboard.
Step 2. Go to Advanced Display
Go to System > Display. Select Advanced display.
Step 3. Open Choose a Refresh Rate
Open the Choose a refresh rate menu.
Step 4. Turn Dynamic Refresh Rate On
Switch the toggle of Dynamic refresh rate to ON(if the option is available).
What Refresh Rate Should You Use?
The best refresh rate depends on your monitor and how you use your computer.
- 60Hz: Suitable for basic tasks such as browsing, office work, and watching videos.
- 75–100Hz: Provides a smoother desktop experience than 60Hz.
- 120–144Hz: A good choice for gaming and general use.
- 165Hz or higher: Particularly useful for competitive gaming and supported high-refresh-rate monitors.
If your monitor supports a higher refresh rate, selecting it can make mouse movement, scrolling, and animations feel noticeably smoother.
Conclusion
Changing the refresh rate in Windows 11 is straightforward. If a
higher refresh rate is unavailable, check your monitor's specifications, display cable, resolution, and graphics driver. Choosing a refresh rate supported by both your monitor and hardware can provide a smoother and more responsive Windows experience.
