To change a display’s refresh rate in Windows 11, open Settings > System > Display > Advanced display, select the correct monitor if you have more than one, and choose a rate under Choose a refresh rate. If 144 Hz is missing, check the selected display, its supported modes at your current resolution, and the graphics driver before assuming the monitor or connection needs replacing.
Change the refresh rate in Windows 11
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Open Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.
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If more than one display is connected, select the monitor you want to adjust.
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Choose a value beside Choose a refresh rate.
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Check the resolution and refresh rate shown in the display information panel.
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Windows only lists refresh rates available to the selected display and its current configuration. Microsoft’s instructions are at Change the refresh rate on your monitor in Windows.
Why 144 Hz may be missing
Confirm the selected display
On a multi-monitor setup, the Advanced display page applies to the display selected there. Verify that you are changing the monitor you intend to use at 144 Hz.
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Check the resolution and marked modes
The available refresh rates depend on the display and its current configuration. Microsoft notes that an asterisk beside a rate indicates it does not support the current resolution; choosing that mode changes the resolution to achieve the selected refresh rate. Check the resulting resolution before accepting the change.
Verify the display’s supported modes
Consult the monitor’s specifications for whether it supports 144 Hz at your intended resolution. If the display does not support that mode, a Windows setting cannot add it.
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- 144Hz high refresh rate delivers ultra-smooth motion and sharper tracking versus standard 60Hz or 75Hz monitors — keeping every frame fluid and responsive for fast-paced FPS, racing, and action games without screen tearing or stuttering.
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Check the graphics driver
Windows may use Microsoft Basic Display Adapter when a manufacturer-specific graphics driver is unavailable or not installed. Microsoft recommends an appropriate manufacturer driver for the best experience. Check Windows Update or the support page for your PC or graphics device. Microsoft also advises checking for graphics-driver updates when Windows shows unexpected resolution changes. See Microsoft Basic Display Adapter in Windows and Change your screen resolution and layout in Windows.
Check the actual connection’s capabilities
Support for a refresh rate can depend on the computer, monitor, resolution, and connection in use. Check the manuals for both the graphics hardware and monitor to confirm the supported modes over that specific connection. Microsoft’s general guidance does not establish a universal cable or port fix, so do not assume an accessory is needed before checking the existing setup.
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- up to 180Hz Refresh Rate: Pushing beyond the standard 144Hz, 165Hz gives gamers an edge in visibility as frames transition instantly, leaving behind no blurred images.
- IPS Panel: The IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel cannot be beat when it comes to consistently delivering top color performance and sharp visibility from multiple viewing angles.
- AMD FreeSync: With FreeSync, gamers now enjoy smooth video and seamless on the spot movement through their fast paced games. FreeSync is an AMD technology that nearly eliminates tearing and stuttering due to differences between a graphics card's frame rate and a monitor's refresh rate.
- Edgeless Design: Edgeless Design completely immerses you in all the captivating action and wondrous scenery that 1080P resolution and 165Hz refresh rate have to offer.
- Multiple Digital Ports: While three HDMI ports each deliver an impressive 144Hz refresh rate, one DisplayPort produces a stunning 165Hz refresh rate, all in FHD resolution.
Dynamic Refresh Rate is a separate setting
Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) automatically adjusts refresh rate based on activity; it is not the same as manually selecting a fixed rate. On supported hardware, find it under Settings > System > Display > Advanced display and use the Dynamic refresh rate toggle. Microsoft says DRR requires a display that supports variable refresh rate and a refresh rate of at least 120 Hz. DRR can limit the maximum refresh rate of some games; if a game appears to run at a lower rate, Microsoft recommends turning DRR off. Details are in Microsoft’s refresh-rate instructions.
What to check before buying anything
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Make sure Advanced display is set to the intended monitor.
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Check whether 144 Hz is supported at the resolution you want.
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Install an appropriate graphics driver if Windows is using a generic display adapter.
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Confirm the monitor and graphics hardware support the target mode over the connection you actually use.
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These checks can narrow down the cause, but the exact reason for a missing option depends on the specific monitor, graphics hardware, resolution, connection, and driver.
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