Screen Flickering
Screen flickering makes displays hard to use and can indicate hardware or software issues. This page covers how to fix screen flickering. Check cable connections first, then update drivers and adjust display settings.
You can use the screen test to check for dead or stuck pixels.
Check Cable Connections
Loose or damaged cables are a common cause of screen flickering.
- Unplug and firmly reconnect display cables
- Check for visible damage to cables
- Try a different cable if available
- Test with a different port if multiple ports available
- For laptops, check internal display connections
Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can cause screen flickering. Update drivers.
- Windows: Device Manager → Display adapters → Right-click graphics card → Update driver
- Mac: System Preferences → Software Update → Install available updates
- Check graphics card manufacturer website for latest drivers
- Restart computer after updating drivers
- Test screen after update
Adjust Refresh Rate
Incorrect refresh rate settings can cause flickering.
- Windows: Settings → System → Display → Advanced display settings → Refresh rate
- Set refresh rate to match your monitor's native rate
- Common rates are 60Hz, 75Hz, 120Hz, or 144Hz
- Test different refresh rates if flickering persists
Disable Hardware Acceleration
Browser hardware acceleration can cause flickering in some cases.
- Chrome: Settings → System → Disable "Use hardware acceleration"
- Firefox: Preferences → General → Performance → Uncheck "Use recommended performance settings"
- Restart browser after changing settings
- Test if flickering is resolved
Check Display Settings
Incorrect display settings can cause flickering.
- Check resolution matches monitor's native resolution
- Verify color depth settings
- Test with different resolutions
- Reset display settings to defaults if needed
Test with Different Monitor
Test with a different monitor to isolate the issue.
- Connect a different monitor if available
- If flickering stops, issue is with original monitor
- If flickering continues, issue is with graphics card or drivers
- This helps identify the source of the problem
Test Screen After Fixes
After trying these steps, use the online screen test to verify flickering is resolved. The test displays solid colors that make flickering easy to detect.
Open the screen test to confirm the issue is resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my screen flickering?
Screen flickering is usually caused by refresh rate issues, loose cable connections, outdated graphics drivers, or display settings. Check cable connections first, then update graphics drivers and adjust refresh rate settings.
How do I fix screen flickering?
Check cable connections, update graphics drivers, adjust refresh rate to match your monitor's native rate, and disable hardware acceleration in browsers. If flickering persists, test with a different cable or monitor to isolate the issue.
Use the online screen test to check your display for issues.