As an owner of a 144Hz monitor, I was frustrated to find out that it was showing 60Hz instead of the expected 144Hz. After doing some research and testing, I’m here to share what I’ve learned and how I solved this problem. I’m also going to share some other solutions I discovered that could help you if you’re having the same issue.
There are many possibilities why your monitor is displaying a different refresh rate than what was originally advertised. It may concern your monitor, graphics driver, cable ports, or unsupported consoles.
| Causes | How to Troubleshoot |
|---|---|
| 1. Monitor Set to 60Hz by Default | Manually adjust the settings in Windows Display Adapter Properties or Advanced Display Settings |
| 2. Unsuitable HDMI or DisplayPort | Use compatible HDMI (2.0 or higher) or DisplayPort cables |
| 3. Outdated Graphics Drivers | Update graphics drivers manually, use Driver Support software to automatically update drivers |
| 4. Unsupported Console | Wait for next-gen consoles that support higher refresh rates |
Table of Contents
Most Likely Causes and How To Troubleshoot Them
Playing games at higher refresh rates can do wonders for your PC experience. However, there are requirements for your 144Hz monitor to display its expected quality. Having the monitor itself just won’t do.
So then, how do you fix a PC that doesn’t display a 144Hz refresh rate? Listed below are four factors that may have caused the problem with solutions on how to revert it to 144Hz.
Cause #1: The Monitor is Set to 60Hz by Default
The common issue is having your monitor set to 60Hz initially without being modified once. Most 144Hz monitors will do that, connecting on Windows computers with that 60Hz by default.
Solution: Manually Adjust The Settings
To check whether you’re using 60Hz by default on Windows 10, follow these simple steps.
- Press your Windows Start button > System > Display > Advanced Display Settings > Display Adapter Properties
- Navigate to the Monitor tab to open the available refresh rates
- Under Screen refresh rate, click the dropdown box to select the 144Hz
- Finish by clicking OK
Running on Windows 11 is slightly different, but similarly easy.
- Navigate to Start > Settings > Display > Advanced Display Settings
- Below you’ll find the “Choose refresh rate” tab with your set refresh rate and available options
- Simply click the dropdown box and select your desired refresh rate
Depending on your PC, you may see an array of options, to only two available. You should spot a 144Hz option if you’ve plugged in an HDMI 2.0 cable.
Cause #2: Unsuitable HDMI or DisplayPort
It’s understandable if you bought the wrong cable thinking they merely connect two devices. That’s part of it, but choosing the correct cable or port will make your computer run better.
Remember that not all HDMI cables are compatible with a high refresh rate monitor, and using old cables is a no-no. DisplayPorts can also be tricky, as some computers offer a high refresh rate, but a lower refresh rate on the HDMI port.
Take note that running a 4k resolution monitor may have problems with the port they came with.
Solution: Use Compatible HDMI or DisplayPort
Try using HDMI 2.0 which supports 4K at 60Hz or HDMI 2.1 supporting 10K resolutions at 120Hz. Any cables lower than HDMI 2.0 will fail to support a 144Hz monitor.
DisplayPorts are a popular option for their capabilities as a connection between computers and monitors. You can even use the minimum DisplayPort 1.0 and 1.1 and still experience a smooth motion.
In summary, ensure plugging your cable into the compatible port. You could try shopping at a trusted vendor and ask for the right cable.
Cause #3: Outdated Graphics Drivers
Graphics drivers are vital components of a PC and sometimes, they’re the ones responsible for restricting your monitor refresh rate to 60Hz. This is because you’re using an old graphics card.
You’ve probably not opened your computer in a while, and that’s what made it old and outdated.
Solution 1: Click Update!
The simple solution is to update. Look up the available up-to-date versions and install them. Remember to update your GPU with the relevant software depending on your PC brand.
If this still doesn’t work, you can visit the control center online of your computer’s brand to enable 144Hz.
Solution 2: Try Driver Support
Driver Supports are great tools and the best choice to keep your device drivers updated and functioning. It diagnoses your PC by scanning outdated drivers and updating them automatically.
By optimizing your computer’s performance, your 144Hz monitor will properly run at smoother refresh rates. The best part is, no more tediously looking for solutions and driver installation because Driver Support will do it for you!
Cause #4: Unsupported Console
If you’re playing games and notice that your 144Hz monitor is showing 60Hz, your console might be the issue. See, all Xbox and PlayStation models are capped at a 60Hz refresh rate. Even the console game itself might only support 60Hz in its graphic settings.
Solution: Wait for Next-Gen Consoles
As of now, the only available solution is to wait for future consoles that can support a 144Hz PC and hope for the best.
How to Fix My 144Hz Monitor Showing 60Hz?
There are many causes for your monitor to display a lower refresh rate. From default settings to unsupported cables and consoles to outdated GPUs, all these issues have the right solution!
Simply check your Windows settings, buy suitable cables, update your drivers, and maybe practice patience for the next-gen consoles. With all of the available solutions, you should have your PC running at 144Hz in no time.
