Windows 11 Screen Keeps Flickering – Troubleshooting Guide

Quick Tips

• Screen flickering in Windows 11 is a sign of display issues, be they software or hardware-related.
• It’s a good idea to check your hardware components and their age.
• Software-wise, ensure graphics drivers are updated and that your screen refresh rate matches your monitor.

You might not be sure why it’s happening, but it’s happening: your Windows 11 screen keeps flickering and you want some answers, or better yet, some solutions. In this article, we’re going to be offering you just that and a few ways to troubleshoot a screen on the blink.

Windows 11 Screen Keeps Flickering – A Display Issue

If a screen is flickering, the issue always has something to do with the display, no matter what the operating system. It could be a problem with the monitor refresh rates, faulty cables, or other hardware issues. It could also be a matter of conflicting drivers, incorrect settings, or various software issues, too. It’s a broad problem, but we’ve got solutions handy.

Hardware Solutions

Here are some hardware fixes to try if your screen flickers in Windows.

Check Your Cables and Monitor

A screen, be it a laptop or PC, is connected to the motherboard via cables. If these aren’t connected properly or damaged, they can cause flickering. Your first step should be to check your cable connections. If your laptop screen flickers, checking your display connections will likely have to involve visiting a repair specialist.

Overheating

If your PC is overheating, especially during demanding tasks, and often as a result of blocked ventilation or a clogged fan, then all components begin to overheat and behave erratically. This includes the monitor. Switch off your machine and check your dust levels.

Aging Graphics Card

If you’ve had your PC for several years and Windows 11 has been installed only recently, you might find that the graphics card can’t keep up with the higher demands of the operating system, compared to its predecessor. In this case, you should consider getting a new one.

Dual Cards

Some gaming laptops come with a graphics card in addition to integrated graphics. The latter normally handles smaller tasks while the former kicks in for heavier ones. This switch can cause flickering, especially when a single app causes frequent performance spikes and dips. To solve this problem:

Step 1. Type “Graphics Settings” into the search bar.

Step 2. In the Settings, select the problematic app from the list. If it’s not there, click the “Browse” button and navigate to the app folder, and add the “.exe” file.

Step 3. Click “Options” under the app, then select your preferred graphics card for the app.

Step 4. Click “Save” once done.

Software Troubleshooting

Sometimes apps and operating systems might be to blame. Try the solutions below:

Refresh Rate

Your refresh rate should match that of your screen to prevent flickering. A lower refresh rate can also ensure more stability. Here’s how to fix the issue:

Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to “System” in the sidebar.

Step 2. Click “Display,” then navigate down to “Advanced Display.”

Step 3. Choose your display and check the refresh rate to see if it matches the other. A setting of 60Hz is always a good baseline.

Update Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a major cause of flickering. It’s a good idea to use your graphics card’s client software to check for updates, especially after any system update. You can also check for updates via Device Manager:

Step 1. Open “Run” (Win + R) and enter “devmgmt.exe” before pressing “OK.”

Step 2. Navigate to “Display Adapters,” and right-click your graphics card.

Step 3. Select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for new drivers.”

Step 4. If Windows finds any new drivers, you’ll be able to install them.