Windows 10 now allows you to change the display refresh rate directly from the Settings app. Here are the exact steps you should follow.
In the recent Windows 10 v20H2 update, Microsoft added a new option in the display settings page that allows you to change the display refresh rate. In the older version, you have to use third-party software or the older control panel to modify the refresh rate. For example, I personally had to use the Nvidia Control Panel to change the refresh rate. However, things have changed and you can now change it from the Settings apps itself.
Though a vast majority of displays are 60 Hz, if you have a high refresh rate monitor or display, the new feature is a welcome one. Mainly because the option is very easy to find and as long as the monitor supports different refresh rates, you can just select the target refresh rate from the dropdown menu. For instance, if you have a 240 Hz monitor, you can easily switch between different refresh rates directly from the new Settings app.
So, without further ado, let me show how you can change the display refresh rate in Windows 10 Settings app.
Important Note: You should be using Windows v20H2 (October 2020) or higher. If you are using lower version, you will not find the option.
Steps to Change Display Refresh Rate from Settings
To change the display refresh rate from the Windows 10 settings app, follow the steps listed below.
- Open the Start menu. Press the “Start” or “Windows” key on your keyboard to do so.
- Click on the “Gear” icon on the bottom left corner to open the Settings app.
- After opening the Settings app, click on the “System” option.
- On the System page, select “Display” from the left panel.
- Scroll down on the right page and click on the “Advanced Display Settings” link.
- On this page, select refresh rate from the “Refresh Rate” dropdown menu.
- Next, click on the “Keep Changes” button if you like the new refresh rate. Otherwise, click the “Revert” button to restore previous refresh rate settings. If you don’t choose any option, the changes will be reverted automatically.
- Close the Settings app after selecting the monitor refresh rate.
That is all. It is that simple to change the monitor refresh rate in the Windows 10 settings app.
Do keep in mind that with this method, you can only choose the refresh rate supported and allowed by your monitor manufacturer. If your monitor manufacturer doesn’t support multiple refresh rates, you cannot change the value. If you want to overclock your monitor or to force your monitor over and above the specified refresh rate, you have to use third-party software.
I hope that helps. If you are stuck or need some help, comment below and I will try to help as much as possible. If you like this article, check out how to change desktop monitor brightness with software and how to auto change wallpaper daily in Windows 10.
