Screen flickering on Windows 11 can be frustrating and disrupt your work or entertainment. It usually occurs due to software glitches or hardware issues. Fortunately, there are simple solutions you can try at home to fix it. This guide will walk you through easy steps to stop the flickering and get your display back to normal.
Before diving into complex fixes, it’s best to start with basic checks. Many times, the problem is related to drivers or settings that can be corrected quickly. Following these solutions step-by-step will save you time and effort.
Whether the flickering happens randomly or constantly, this article covers multiple methods. You will find options for beginners as well as more advanced users. Let’s get started and fix your screen flicker on Windows 11.
Remember, patience is key. Try each method carefully, and only move on if the previous step didn’t work. This way, you avoid unnecessary changes to your system.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often fix bugs that cause flickering.
- Check your monitor cable connections. Loose or damaged cables can cause screen flickering.
- If you use multiple monitors, test flickering on one screen at a time to isolate the issue.
- Restart your computer before trying any fixes. Sometimes a simple reboot clears temporary glitches.
Step 1: Update or Reinstall Display Drivers
Display drivers control how your computer communicates with the monitor. Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of screen flickering.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click your graphics driver (like “Intel HD Graphics” or “NVIDIA”) and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Let Windows find and install any updates.
- If the problem persists, right-click the driver again and choose Uninstall device. Then restart your PC to let Windows reinstall the driver automatically.
Why this helps: Updated drivers fix bugs and improve compatibility with Windows 11, which can stop flickering caused by driver issues.
Step 2: Adjust the Refresh Rate of Your Monitor
The refresh rate is how often your screen updates per second. Setting it incorrectly can cause flickering.
- Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
- Scroll down and click Advanced display settings.
- Under Choose a refresh rate, select a different rate (e.g., 60Hz or 75Hz) from the dropdown menu.
- Click Apply and see if the flickering stops.
Why this matters: Some monitors work best at specific refresh rates. Using the right one ensures smooth visuals without flickering.
Step 3: Disable Problematic Apps or Startup Programs
Sometimes, third-party apps running in the background cause screen flickering. Disabling them helps identify if they are the cause.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Processes tab and look for any suspicious or recently installed apps.
- Right-click the app and select End task. Check if the flickering stops.
- To prevent apps from starting automatically, go to the Startup tab in Task Manager.
- Right-click any unnecessary apps and select Disable.
- Restart your PC and check your screen.
Why this is useful: Some apps may conflict with your graphics system, causing flickering. Disabling them narrows down the problem.
Step 4: Run the Built-in Windows Troubleshooter
Windows 11 offers a troubleshooting tool that can detect and fix display problems automatically.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find the Display option and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Why this helps: The troubleshooter can automatically detect common display issues and apply fixes without manual intervention.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve system stability.
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are found, download and install them.
- Restart your computer after installation.
Why keep Windows updated: Updates sometimes contain fixes for hardware compatibility and display issues that cause flickering.
Alternative Method: Boot in Safe Mode
If flickering continues, try booting your PC in Safe Mode. This disables most drivers and startup apps, helping identify if software is the cause.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Boot tab.
- Check the box for Safe boot and select Minimal.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
- Check if the flickering occurs in Safe Mode.
- To exit Safe Mode, repeat steps and uncheck Safe boot.
What this shows: If flickering stops in Safe Mode, a third-party app or driver is likely causing the problem.
FAQs About Screen Flickering on Windows 11
Why does my screen flicker only when I open certain apps?
Some apps may not be fully compatible with your graphics driver or Windows version, causing flickering. Updating drivers or the app itself often fixes this.
Can a damaged monitor cause flickering?
Yes, physical damage or faulty cables can cause flickering. Try using a different cable or monitor to test.
Is screen flickering related to virus or malware?
It’s uncommon, but some malicious software can affect system performance. Running a malware scan is a good precaution.
How do I know if flickering is caused by hardware or software?
Booting into Safe Mode or using another monitor helps. If flickering persists in Safe Mode or on a different device, hardware may be the cause.
Does changing the display resolution help?
Sometimes yes. Setting the resolution to the native or recommended setting ensures proper display performance and can reduce flickering.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above methods and your screen still flickers, it might be a hardware problem. Consider these options:
- Test your computer with a different monitor to rule out hardware failure.
- Contact your device manufacturer’s support for professional help.
- Visit the official Microsoft support page for additional troubleshooting.
- If your PC is under warranty, consider taking it to an authorized repair center.
Conclusion
Screen flickering in Windows 11 can be caused by many factors, but most are easy to fix with the right steps. Start by updating your display drivers and adjusting your monitor’s refresh rate. Disable problematic apps and use Windows troubleshooters to identify software conflicts. Always keep your system updated to prevent bugs.
If these basic fixes don’t work, booting in Safe Mode or testing hardware can help isolate the issue. When all else fails, professional support may be necessary. By following this guide carefully, you can often restore your screen’s stability without hassle.
Remember, addressing screen flickering early avoids further damage and improves your overall Windows 11 experience.