How to Fix Gamma Correction Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Gamma correction is essential for displaying accurate colors and brightness on your Windows 11 screen. When it’s not working properly, images and videos can look washed out or too dark.

This guide will help you fix gamma correction issues on Windows 11 with simple, step-by-step instructions. No technical experience is needed — just follow along carefully.

By the end, your screen’s colors should appear balanced and natural again. Let’s get started.

Remember, making small changes can greatly improve your display quality.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates can fix many display problems automatically.
Check that your monitor’s cables are securely connected to your PC.
Confirm your graphics drivers are current, as outdated drivers often cause gamma and color issues.
Try restarting your computer before making changes — sometimes this alone fixes minor glitches.

Step 1: Adjust Gamma Using Windows Display Settings

The easiest way to fix gamma problems is through Windows’ built-in display calibration tool. This tool guides you to adjust gamma, brightness, and contrast visually.

Click the Start button and type Calibrate display color in the search bar.
Select the “Calibrate display color” option from the results.
A Display Color Calibration window will open. Click Next to start the process.
Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. When you reach the gamma adjustment step, use the slider to set gamma until the small dots are barely visible but not disappearing.
Continue through the wizard until you finish and click Finish.

This method adjusts gamma at the system level, which often solves many display issues without complex fixes.

Step 2: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers control how your PC communicates with your display. If these drivers are outdated or corrupted, gamma settings won’t work correctly.

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters section to see your graphics hardware.
Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver and install it.
If no updates are found, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (like NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download and install the newest driver manually.
After updating, restart your PC to apply changes.

Keeping drivers updated ensures Windows can properly control gamma and other display settings.

Step 3: Disable Any Third-Party Color Calibration Software

Some third-party apps may override Windows’ gamma settings, causing conflicts.

Check if you have any color calibration or screen adjustment programs installed (for example, f.lux, DisplayCAL, or monitor utilities).
Temporarily disable or close these programs to see if gamma correction starts working again.
If disabling helps, consider uninstalling the conflicting software or adjusting its settings to avoid interference.

This step helps isolate whether external software is causing the gamma correction problem.

Step 4: Reset Color Profile to Default

Windows uses color profiles to manage how colors appear on your display. A corrupted or incorrect profile can disrupt gamma correction.

Open the Control Panel by typing it in the Start menu search.
Go to Color Management.
In the Devices tab, make sure your monitor is selected in the dropdown.
Check the box labeled Use my settings for this device.
Select any custom profiles listed and click Remove.
Click Add, then choose the default sRGB IEC61966-2.1 profile and set it as default.
Click Close and restart your PC.

Resetting to the standard color profile often restores proper gamma correction.

Alternative Method: Adjust Gamma via Graphics Control Panel

If the above steps don’t work, try adjusting gamma directly through your graphics card’s control panel.

NVIDIA: Right-click the desktop, open NVIDIA Control Panel, go to Display > Adjust desktop color settings, and use the gamma slider.
AMD: Open AMD Radeon Software, navigate to Display > Color, then adjust gamma.
Intel: Access Intel Graphics Command Center, go to Display > Color Settings, and modify gamma.

Using the manufacturer’s control panel often gives more precise control over gamma and color settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is gamma correction important?

Gamma correction ensures that the brightness and color on your screen appear natural and balanced. Without it, images may look too dark, too bright, or washed out.

Can a faulty monitor cause gamma issues?

Yes, problems with your monitor hardware or cables can affect color accuracy. Always check physical connections and test with another monitor if possible.

Will updating Windows fix gamma correction problems?

Sometimes. Windows updates often include driver and system fixes that can resolve display issues, so keeping your system updated is recommended.

Is it safe to download drivers from manufacturer websites?

Yes, downloading drivers directly from NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, or your PC manufacturer’s official site is safe and often necessary for the latest fixes.

What if gamma correction works in some apps but not others?

This can happen if apps use their own color management. Try adjusting settings within the app or ensure your system-wide gamma settings are correct.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and gamma correction is still not working, consider these final options:

Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Display troubleshooter.
Perform a System Restore: Revert your PC to a previous state when gamma correction was working.
Contact Support: Reach out to Microsoft Support or your graphics card manufacturer for personalized help.
Consult Official Resources: Visit the Microsoft Windows Support site for latest guides and fixes.

Conclusion

Fixing gamma correction issues on Windows 11 is usually straightforward once you know the right steps. Start with the built-in calibration tool, keep your drivers updated, and check for software conflicts.

Resetting color profiles and using your graphics control panel can also help when simpler fixes don’t work. Remember to keep your system updated and secure connections checked.

By following this guide, you should be able to restore accurate and pleasant colors to your display, enhancing your overall viewing experience.