Why Is My Monitor Stuck at 60Hz? 7 Fixes That Work
Updated · 2 min read
Short answer
Most monitors stuck at 60Hz are simply set to 60Hz in the operating system, or are connected with a cable or port that can't carry a higher rate at your resolution. Pick the highest rate in your display settings, use DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1, then run a refresh rate test to confirm.
In detail
A monitor only runs at its advertised refresh rate when every link in the chain supports it: the operating system setting, the graphics driver, the port on your computer, the cable, the port on the monitor and the monitor's own menu. Windows and macOS often default to 60Hz when a new display is plugged in. Older HDMI versions don't have enough bandwidth for high refresh rates at 1440p or 4K. Laptops on battery and some power-saving modes also lower the rate. Fix the setting first, then the connection, then power and driver settings, and measure after each change so you know which one worked.
1. Check the refresh rate setting
This is the cause most of the time. A new monitor, a driver update or a different cable can quietly reset the rate to 60Hz.
- Windows 11: Settings, System, Display, Advanced display, then choose the highest value under “Choose a refresh rate”.
- Windows 10: Settings, System, Display, Advanced display settings, then Display adapter properties, Monitor tab.
- macOS: System Settings, Displays, then pick the rate from the Refresh Rate menu.
If you have more than one monitor, select the right one first. Each display keeps its own setting.
2. Use the right port and cable
Higher refresh rates need more bandwidth, and more pixels need more again. A 60Hz cap at 1440p or 4K often points to an older HDMI port or cable.
Use DisplayPort if both your computer and monitor have it. If you need HDMI, check that both ends support HDMI 2.1 for high refresh rates at 4K, and use a cable rated for it. On desktops, plug the cable into the graphics card, not the motherboard’s video output.
3. Look at the monitor’s own menu
Some monitors limit the rate until you change a setting in their on-screen menu. Look for options such as the DisplayPort version, an overclock mode, or “Adaptive Sync”. Set the DisplayPort version to the newest one offered.
4. Check power and battery modes
Laptops often drop to 60Hz on battery. Windows can also lower the rate with “Dynamic refresh rate” or battery saver turned on. Plug in the charger, switch to a balanced or performance power plan, and check again.
5. Update the graphics driver
An outdated or generic driver can hide higher rates. Install the latest driver from your graphics card maker rather than relying on the one Windows installs automatically. Then check the refresh rate setting again, because a driver update can reset it.
6. Lower the resolution to test
If the rate you want only appears at a lower resolution, bandwidth is the limit. That points back to the cable and port in step 2. It’s a quick way to confirm the cause, not a fix to keep.
7. Confirm it worked
Settings can say 144Hz while something else still holds the display back. Run the FPS and refresh rate test on the monitor you changed. The refresh rate box should match the rate you picked, and jitter should stay low.
For a specific rate, use its page, for example the 144Hz test or the 240Hz test. The refresh rate chart shows frame times for every common rate if you want to see what you’re gaining.
FPS & Refresh Rate Test
Measure your real frame rate and monitor refresh rate, and compare motion at different FPS.
Test your refresh rateFrequently asked questions
How do I know if my monitor is really running at 144Hz?
Open a refresh rate test in your browser on that monitor. It measures the rate your display is actually using. If it reads 60, the higher rate isn't active yet, even if the monitor supports it.
Can an HDMI cable limit my refresh rate?
Yes. Older HDMI ports and cables can't carry high refresh rates at high resolutions. DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1, with a cable rated for it, removes that limit on most setups.
Why does my laptop switch to 60Hz on battery?
Many laptops lower the refresh rate on battery to save power. Plug in the charger or change the power profile, and the higher rate usually comes back.
Does a higher refresh rate need a better graphics card?
The display can refresh at 144Hz with any modern graphics card, but games only look that smooth if the card renders around 144 frames per second. Desktop scrolling and video benefit either way.