How to Change Refresh Rates on Windows 11 24H2: Step-by-Step 2026 Tutorial

Why refresh rates matter

A higher refresh rate makes everything on your screen feel more responsive. While gamers usually hunt for high frame rates to reduce motion blur, the smoother scrolling also helps with eye strain during a long workday. If your monitor is capable of 144Hz or 240Hz but you're still stuck at 60Hz, you're leaving performance on the table.

This guide is specifically tailored for Windows 11 24H2, the latest major version as of late 2024 and early 2025. While the process is similar across recent Windows 11 versions, the specifics can shift with updates. Keep in mind that while Windows 11 offers a lot of flexibility, some older monitors might not support all the features or refresh rates available.

Simply plugging in a high-end monitor isn't enough. Windows often defaults to 60Hz to save power or ensure compatibility, so you have to manually tell the OS to use the full speed of your hardware.

Check your current settings

Before you start making changes, it’s a good idea to know what your current refresh rate is. This will give you a baseline for comparison and help you confirm that your changes have taken effect. To find this information, open the Display settings by pressing the Windows key + I, then navigating to System > Display.

Within Display settings, scroll down and click on 'Advanced display'. Here, you’ll see a 'Choose a refresh rate' dropdown menu. The number selected in this dropdown is your current refresh rate, usually measured in Hertz (Hz). A common default is 60Hz, but many modern monitors support 144Hz, 165Hz, 240Hz, or even higher.

The highest available rate in that dropdown isn’t always the best rate for you. It depends on your monitor’s capabilities and the connection type you’re using. You can find your monitor’s maximum supported refresh rate in its specifications, typically listed in the manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Knowing this maximum is key to avoiding settings your hardware can't handle.

Using the Nvidia control panel

Nvidia graphics card users have additional control over their display settings through the Nvidia Control Panel. You can access it by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting 'Nvidia Control Panel'. If you don’t see this option, make sure your Nvidia drivers are installed correctly.

Within the Nvidia Control Panel, navigate to 'Change resolution' under the 'Display' section. Here, you can select a refresh rate from the dropdown menu. This method can sometimes override the refresh rate set in Windows Display settings, giving you more granular control.

However, using the Nvidia Control Panel to adjust the refresh rate is generally only needed for advanced configurations or if you're experiencing issues with the Windows settings. For most users, the Windows Display settings method is sufficient. It’s best to stick to one method to avoid conflicts.

AMD Radeon settings

If you have an AMD Radeon graphics card, you can adjust your refresh rate through the Radeon Settings software. You can typically access it by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting 'AMD Radeon Settings'. Like the Nvidia Control Panel, ensure your drivers are properly installed.

Within Radeon Settings, go to the 'Display' tab. Here, you’ll find options to adjust your display’s settings, including the refresh rate. Select your desired refresh rate from the dropdown menu. This method, similar to the Nvidia Control Panel, can override the Windows settings.

It's also in this area of the Radeon Settings that you’ll find options related to AMD FreeSync or Adaptive Sync. Changing the refresh rate can potentially impact how these technologies function, so be mindful of your settings if you’re using a variable refresh rate monitor. Experiment to find the best balance for your setup.

Fixing common problems

Sometimes, changing your refresh rate doesn't go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common issues and how to address them. If the desired refresh rate isn’t appearing in the dropdown menu, the most common culprit is an outdated or corrupted graphics driver. Update to the latest version from the manufacturer's website.

Another possibility is a problem with your cable or the cable itself. Try a different cable, and if possible, use a DisplayPort cable, as it generally offers better bandwidth and support for higher refresh rates. A faulty cable can easily cause problems. Monitor limitations are also a factor; your monitor might simply not support the refresh rate you’re trying to select.

If you experience screen flickering after changing the refresh rate, it could be due to incompatible settings or a cable issue. Try lowering the refresh rate slightly or trying a different cable. Games not running at the selected refresh rate is often a game-specific issue. Check the game’s settings to ensure it’s not capped at a lower frame rate, and disable VSync if it’s interfering.

In rare cases, you might encounter a black screen or no signal after changing the refresh rate. This usually indicates a cable issue or an incompatible setting. Try a different cable, revert to your previous refresh rate, or consult your monitor’s manual for guidance.

Cables and Connections: What Matters

The type of cable you use plays a significant role in your ability to achieve higher refresh rates. HDMI and DisplayPort are the two most common connection types. HDMI 2.0 can generally support up to 144Hz at 1080p or 1440p, while HDMI 2.1 offers significantly more bandwidth and can handle 4K resolution at 120Hz or even higher.

DisplayPort is usually the better choice for desktop PCs. A DisplayPort 1.4 cable handles 240Hz at 1440p easily, whereas older HDMI cables might cap you at 120Hz or 144Hz. Check your monitor's manual to see which port actually supports the full bandwidth.

A higher refresh rate often requires a newer cable standard. Simply having an HDMI 2.1 port on your monitor doesn't guarantee you'll achieve the highest refresh rates if you're using an older HDMI cable. Cable quality also matters; a cheap or poorly made cable can sometimes cause issues even if it technically meets the version requirements.

Life beyond 60Hz

The benefits of higher refresh rates extend beyond just gaming. Even in everyday tasks, a higher refresh rate can result in smoother scrolling, reduced motion blur, and potentially less eye strain. This is particularly noticeable when quickly moving windows or browsing web pages.

Variable refresh rate technologies like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync work by dynamically adjusting the monitor’s refresh rate to match the frame rate output by your graphics card. This eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in a smoother and more immersive experience. These technologies are most effective when paired with a compatible monitor and graphics card.

Ultimately, the "best" refresh rate is subjective and depends on your individual preferences and hardware. While higher refresh rates generally offer a better experience, there's a point of diminishing returns. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you and your setup.