How to Enable 144Hz on Your Monitor in Windows

To turn on 144Hz in Windows, open Settings, go to System, then Display, then Advanced display, and choose 144 Hz from the Choose a refresh rate menu. This option only appears if your cable, port, and resolution all support it, so connect the monitor with DisplayPort or an HDMI 2.0 or newer cable, install the latest graphics driver, and set the native resolution first.

Why this happens

Windows often sets a new display to 60Hz by default, even when the panel can run faster. You usually have to switch it on manually.

• The cable or port may limit bandwidth. HDMI 1.4 tops out near 1080p 120Hz or 1440p 60Hz, so it cannot carry 1440p at 144Hz.
• Higher resolutions need more bandwidth, so 144Hz may only be listed at some resolutions on a given connection.
• An outdated or generic Microsoft Basic Display driver may not expose the full refresh rate list.
• Some monitors need an Overclock or specific input mode enabled in their own on-screen menu.

Is this normal?

Yes. Windows commonly defaults to 60Hz, and setting a higher refresh rate manually is a normal one-time step.

Does it cause any problems?

No. Running at 60Hz by mistake only means motion looks less smooth. It does not harm the monitor or the graphics card.

How to fix or check it

1. Connect the monitor using DisplayPort, or HDMI 2.0 or newer, since older HDMI cables and ports often cannot do 144Hz.
2. Install the latest graphics driver from Nvidia, AMD, or Intel, then restart.
3. Open Settings, System, Display, and confirm the monitor is at its native resolution.
4. Scroll down, click Advanced display, and pick your monitor if you have more than one.
5. Under Choose a refresh rate, select 144 Hz.
6. If 144 Hz is missing, lower the resolution one step and check again, or try a different cable or port.
7. For Nvidia cards you can also set the rate in Nvidia Control Panel under Change resolution. For AMD, use AMD Software, Display.

Frequently asked questions

Why is 144 Hz not showing in the dropdown?

The most common reasons are a cable or port that cannot carry the bandwidth, a resolution that is too high for that connection, or a missing graphics driver. Try DisplayPort and update the driver.

Does the cable really matter for 144Hz?

Yes. DisplayPort and HDMI 2.0 or newer can carry 144Hz at common resolutions. Older HDMI 1.4 cables and ports usually cannot, which forces 60Hz.

Will 144Hz damage my monitor?

No. If the monitor lists 144Hz as a supported rate, running it is completely safe and is what the panel is designed for.