How-to · Monitors
How to fix monitor flickering: 9 causes and fixes
Flicker usually comes from a cable, a refresh-rate mismatch, VRR on OLED, or a driver. Work through these nine fixes from quickest to most involved.
Monitor flicker can be a quick fix or a sign of failing hardware. Try these fixes in order, testing after each one.
9 fixes for a flickering monitor
- Reseat the cable at both ends, then swap it for a certified DisplayPort or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.
- Set the correct refresh rate in Windows or macOS display settings; mismatches can cause flicker.
- Restart the graphics driver on Windows with Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B, then update the driver.
- Turn off variable refresh (G-Sync or FreeSync) to test; on OLEDs, cap frame rate below the maximum or use anti-flicker settings.
- Lower the monitor's overdrive or response-time setting; extreme overdrive can cause artifacts.
- Disable HDR to test, then re-enable it after updating drivers and firmware.
- Turn off monitor eco or power-saving modes and dynamic contrast.
- Raise brightness if flicker appears only at low brightness (a sign of PWM dimming).
- Remove docks, adapters, and KVMs from the chain to see whether they are the cause.
When it is the hardware
If the monitor flickers in its own on-screen menu with nothing connected, or on every computer and cable you try, the fault is likely the panel, backlight, or power board. Contact the manufacturer while it is under warranty.
Questions we get
Why does my OLED monitor flicker in dark game scenes?
That is VRR flicker: OLED brightness shifts slightly as the refresh rate changes with frame rate, which shows most in dark loading screens and menus. Cap your frame rate a few frames below the monitor's maximum, use the monitor's anti-flicker setting if it has one, or turn off VRR in that game.
Can a bad cable cause flickering?
Yes, and it is the most common cause of flickering or black screens at high resolutions and refresh rates. Reseat both ends, then try a certified DisplayPort or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.
Is a flickering monitor dangerous for my eyes?
Visible flicker can cause eye strain and headaches for some people. Monitors marketed as flicker-free avoid low-frequency PWM dimming; if your monitor flickers at low brightness, raise brightness and lower contrast or room light instead.