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How to Fix VSync Not Working Issues on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

VSync, or Vertical Synchronization, helps prevent screen tearing by syncing your game’s frame rate with your monitor’s refresh rate. If VSync is not working on your Windows 11 PC, it can affect your gaming experience, causing visual glitches or stuttering.

This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common issues related to VSync not functioning properly. Each step is explained in simple terms, so even beginners can follow along easily.

By the end, you should be able to get VSync working smoothly on your system. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into detailed troubleshooting.

Follow the steps in order, from easiest to more advanced fixes.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Check your monitor’s refresh rate: VSync depends on your monitor’s refresh rate. Make sure your monitor supports the refresh rate you want to use.
  • Update your graphics drivers: Outdated drivers often cause VSync issues. Always keep your GPU drivers up to date.
  • Confirm game settings: Some games have their own VSync options that override system settings.
  • Close background applications: Other running apps can interfere with graphics performance.

Step 1: Enable VSync in Your Graphics Control Panel

Windows 11 relies on your graphics card’s control panel for many display settings. Here’s how to enable VSync for the two most common GPU brands:

For NVIDIA Users

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
  2. In the left menu, click Manage 3D settings.
  3. Under the Global Settings tab, find Vertical sync.
  4. Select On from the dropdown menu.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

Why this matters: Enabling VSync here ensures it is applied system-wide, which can fix issues when games don’t respect their own VSync settings.

For AMD Users

  1. Right-click on the desktop and open AMD Radeon Software.
  2. Go to the Graphics tab.
  3. Find the Wait for Vertical Refresh option.
  4. Set it to Always On.
  5. Save your settings.

Step 2: Check In-Game VSync Settings

Many games have their own VSync toggle. Even if VSync is enabled in the driver, the game’s settings may disable it.

  1. Open your game’s settings menu.
  2. Look for Graphics or Display options.
  3. Find the VSync option and ensure it is turned on.
  4. Save changes and restart the game if necessary.

Tip: Some games might label this as “Vertical Sync” or “Sync Every Frame.”

Step 3: Adjust Windows 11 Display Settings

Windows 11 itself has display settings that can affect how VSync works.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  2. Scroll down and click Advanced display settings.
  3. Check the Refresh rate is set to the highest supported by your monitor.
  4. If you use multiple monitors, try running the game on your primary display.

Why this is important: If your refresh rate is too low or set incorrectly, VSync may not function properly.

Step 4: Disable Fullscreen Optimization

Windows 11 includes a feature called Fullscreen Optimization that can interfere with VSync.

  1. Right-click your game’s shortcut or executable file (.exe) and select Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check the box labeled Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.

Note: Disabling this can fix input lag and VSync issues in some games.

Step 5: Use NVIDIA or AMD Frame Rate Limiter (Optional)

Sometimes VSync alone may not solve screen tearing perfectly. Using a frame rate limiter can help maintain smooth visuals.

  • In NVIDIA Control Panel, under Manage 3D settings, set Max Frame Rate slightly below your monitor’s refresh rate.
  • In AMD Radeon Software, under graphics settings, use the Frame Rate Target Control option.

This ensures your GPU does not send frames faster than your monitor can display, complementing VSync.

Step 6: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

If your VSync still isn’t working, your drivers may be corrupted or outdated.

  1. Download the latest drivers directly from your GPU manufacturer’s website:
  2. Uninstall current drivers using Device Manager or a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU).
  3. Restart your PC.
  4. Install the freshly downloaded drivers and reboot again.

Fresh installs can resolve hidden conflicts affecting VSync.

FAQs: Common Questions About VSync on Windows 11

Why does VSync cause input lag?

VSync can delay frame output to sync with the monitor, which may cause slight input lag. Using technologies like NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync can reduce this lag.

Can I use VSync with multiple monitors?

VSync typically works best on a single primary monitor. Using multiple displays can sometimes cause issues, so test with one monitor if you encounter problems.

What causes screen tearing if VSync is enabled?

Screen tearing may still occur if the frame rate exceeds the monitor’s refresh rate or if VSync is overridden by game or system settings.

Is VSync necessary with G-Sync or FreeSync?

No, G-Sync and FreeSync are designed to eliminate screen tearing without the input lag caused by VSync, so enabling VSync alongside them is usually not needed.

How can I tell if VSync is working?

You can notice the absence of screen tearing and smoother frame transitions. Some games or software also display frame rate and sync status.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and VSync still does not work, consider the following:

  • Check the official support forums for your GPU manufacturer (NVIDIA or AMD) for known issues and fixes.
  • Visit the Microsoft Windows Support page for updates or patches related to display or graphics problems.
  • Contact the game developer’s support if the issue is isolated to a specific game.
  • Consider testing your hardware for faults, especially your GPU and monitor.

In rare cases, Windows updates or hardware compatibility problems can cause persistent VSync issues requiring professional support.

Conclusion

Fixing VSync not working on Windows 11 usually involves checking your graphics settings, updating drivers, and adjusting both system and game configurations. Starting with simple steps like enabling VSync in your GPU control panel and verifying in-game settings can often solve the problem.

Disabling fullscreen optimizations and updating drivers are effective next steps. If needed, advanced options like frame rate limiting can improve synchronization further.

By following this guide patiently and in order, you should restore smooth, tear-free visuals on your Windows 11 PC and enjoy a better gaming experience.

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