How to Fix Screen Flickering in Windows 10

Screen flickering in Windows 10 can be a bothersome issue, impacting your productivity and overall user experience. However, fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step solutions to put an end to this frustrating problem and get your system running smoothly again.

Understanding the Issue

Screen flickering occurs when the display rapidly changes between different visuals, resulting in an annoying flashing effect. This can be attributed to various factors, such as incompatible drivers, software conflicts, or even hardware problems.

1. Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers are often the culprit behind screen flickering. To resolve this, follow these simple steps:

1. Press Win + X and select “Device Manager.”
2. Expand the “Display adapters” section.
3. Right-click on your graphics card and choose “Update driver.”
4. Select “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the prompts.

2. Adjust Refresh Rate

An incorrect refresh rate setting can also trigger screen flickering. Here’s how you can fix it:

1. Right-click on your desktop and select “Display settings.”
2. Scroll down and click on “Advanced display settings.”
3. Under “Refresh rate,” choose a different rate from the drop-down menu. Test different rates until the flickering stops.

3. Disable Hardware Acceleration in Browsers

Sometimes, screen flickering occurs while browsing the web. This can be resolved by turning off hardware acceleration in your browser:

For Google Chrome:

1. Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select “Settings.”
2. Scroll down and click on “Advanced.”
3. Under the “System” section, disable “Use hardware acceleration when available.”

For Mozilla Firefox:

1. Click the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner and choose “Options.”
2. Select “General” from the left sidebar.
3. Scroll down to the “Performance” section and uncheck “Use recommended performance settings.”
4. Uncheck “Use hardware acceleration when available.”

4. Check for Malware and Viruses

Malware and viruses can wreak havoc on your system, leading to various issues, including screen flickering. Run a thorough scan using your preferred antivirus software to ensure your system is clean and secure.

5. Boot into Safe Mode

Booting your system into Safe Mode can help identify if the flickering issue is caused by third-party applications. Follow these steps:

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to “Update & Security” > “Recovery.”
3. Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now.”
4. Select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings” > “Restart.”
5. Press F4 to start your computer in Safe Mode.

6. Update Windows and Apps

Outdated operating systems and applications can contribute to screen flickering. Ensure you’re running the latest updates:

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”
3. Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
4. Update your installed applications as well.

7. Monitor Hardware Components

In some cases, faulty hardware components can cause screen flickering. Check your monitor’s cables, connectors, and power source. Additionally, test your system with an alternate monitor to rule out monitor-related issues.

Conclusion

Dealing with screen flickering on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but by following these solutions, you can effectively eliminate the problem. Start with the simplest solutions and work your way through the list until you find the one that resolves the issue for you. A smooth and flicker-free display awaits you!

Remember, these troubleshooting steps are designed to address common causes of screen flickering. If the issue persists, it might be beneficial to consult a professional to diagnose and fix any underlying hardware problems. With these solutions at your disposal, you’re well on your way to enjoying an uninterrupted computing experience!