Fixing Screen Flickering in Windows 11 can seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry—it’s manageable with a few simple steps. Essentially, screen flickering usually stems from an outdated or incompatible display driver or a buggy app. By updating your graphics driver, checking for faulty apps, and adjusting your display settings, you can get your screen back to normal in no time. Follow this guide to troubleshoot and resolve screen flickering issues effectively.
Fixing Screen Flickering in Windows 11
Before diving in, it’s good to understand the basics of what’s causing your screen to flicker. This guide will walk you through resolving the most common culprits to help restore your display to its regular, non-flickering state.
Step 1: Check Task Manager
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to see if it flickers.
If Task Manager doesn’t flicker, then the problem is likely due to an app. If it does flicker, then it’s probably a driver issue.
Step 2: Update Your Graphics Driver
Head to Device Manager, find your display adapter, right-click, and choose ‘Update driver’.
Updating your graphics driver can often solve flickering issues, as outdated drivers might not be compatible with Windows 11.
Step 3: Uninstall Incompatible Apps
Identify any recently installed apps that might be causing issues and uninstall them.
Certain third-party apps can interfere with display settings, leading to flickering. Removing these can stabilize your screen.
Step 4: Change Display Settings
Go to Settings > System > Display and adjust the refresh rate.
Sometimes, an incorrect refresh rate can cause flickering. Selecting the recommended rate ensures compatibility.
Step 5: Roll Back Graphics Driver
In Device Manager, find your graphics driver, select properties, and then ‘Roll Back Driver’.
If a recent driver update is causing flickering, rolling back to a previous version can restore stability.
After completing these steps, you should notice a stable screen without flickering. If issues persist, further investigation or professional assistance may be necessary.
Tips for Fixing Screen Flickering in Windows 11
- Keep your system updated: Regular updates can prevent compatibility issues.
- Avoid sketchy apps: Download apps only from trusted sources.
- Create a restore point: This allows you to revert your system back if issues arise.
- Check for hardware issues: Sometimes, flickering can be a hardware problem.
- Consult a professional: If all else fails, a tech expert might be your best bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my screen flickering is due to an app or driver?
By checking Task Manager. If it flickers, it’s likely a driver issue; if not, it might be an app.
Can updating Windows fix screen flickering?
Yes, sometimes updates include patches for bugs that cause flickering.
What if my display isn’t listed in Device Manager?
This could point to a driver issue or hardware fault. Try restarting your computer.
Are all third-party apps bad for my display?
No, but some might be incompatible with your system, causing flickering.
Is screen flickering a hardware issue?
While it’s usually software-related, hardware faults can also cause flickering.
Summary
- Check Task Manager.
- Update your graphics driver.
- Uninstall incompatible apps.
- Change display settings.
- Roll back graphics driver.
Conclusion
Screen flickering in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a persistent problem. With the right steps, you can usually resolve the issue quickly and restore your system’s peace of mind. By checking Task Manager, updating drivers, managing your apps, and adjusting display settings, you tackle the problem head-on.
Be proactive—keep your system and apps updated, and periodically check for any potential hardware issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if the problem persists. Your screen’s health is crucial for your productivity and comfort, so don’t let flickering be a constant annoyance.
Hopefully, this guide helps you solve the screen flickering problem and gives you a little more peace of mind in your Windows 11 experience. Keep exploring and learning about your system—knowledge is power, and it can save you time and frustration down the line!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.