Ever been in the middle of working, streaming, or gaming on your Windows 11 laptop or PC and thought, “Why is my screen so dim?” You’re not alone. Adjusting screen brightness seems simple, but with Windows 11’s updated layout, the options can feel a little hidden at times.
Whether you’re working in a bright room, editing photos, or just want your screen to be easier on the eyes, this guide will walk you through all the different ways to increase brightness on Windows 11—step by step.
Why Adjusting Brightness Matters
- Better visibility: Too dim and you can barely see; too bright and it’s blinding.
- Eye comfort: Adjusting brightness reduces eye strain during long hours of screen time.
- Battery life: Lower brightness saves battery on laptops, but sometimes you need extra brightness when outdoors or in well-lit areas.
Think of brightness like sunglasses—sometimes you want more shade, sometimes you want to see everything clearly.
Method 1: Adjust Brightness via Quick Settings
This is the fastest and easiest way.
- Click the network, volume, or battery icon in the taskbar (bottom-right).
- The Quick Settings menu will appear.
- Look for the brightness slider (sun icon).
- Drag it to the right to increase brightness.
Done! Instant brightness boost without opening any extra menus.
Method 2: Adjust Brightness via Settings
For a more permanent setting:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System → Display.
- Under Brightness & color, find the slider labeled “Brightness.”
- Move it to the right to increase brightness.
This is great if you want precise control or if the Quick Settings slider doesn’t show up.
Method 3: Use Keyboard Brightness Keys (Laptop Only)
Most laptops come with built-in brightness keys.
- Look for keys with a sun icon (☀), often found on the top row (F1–F12).
- Hold Fn + brightness key (depending on your laptop brand).
This is the quickest method when you’re on the go.
Method 4: Use Adaptive Brightness (Automatic)
Windows 11 can adjust brightness based on your surroundings if your device has a light sensor.
- Open Settings → System → Display.
- Scroll to Brightness & color.
- Check “Change brightness automatically when lighting changes.”
This is especially useful for laptops and tablets in varying environments.
Method 5: Adjust Brightness via Graphics Control Panel
If the standard sliders aren’t working, your GPU might have its own brightness controls.
- Intel Graphics: Right-click desktop → Intel Graphics Command Center → Display → Adjust brightness.
- NVIDIA Control Panel: Right-click desktop → NVIDIA Control Panel → Display → Adjust desktop color settings.
- AMD Radeon Software: Right-click desktop → AMD Radeon Software → Display → Adjust brightness.
Method 6: Use Windows Mobility Center (Laptops)
- Press Windows + X and select Mobility Center.
- Find the Display brightness slider.
- Move it to increase brightness.
A classic method for those who like old-school Windows tools.
Method 7: Adjust Brightness via Monitor Settings (Desktop PCs)
If you’re on a desktop with an external monitor, Windows brightness controls may not apply.
- Use the monitor’s physical buttons (usually under or behind the screen).
- Navigate to the Brightness or Picture settings.
- Increase brightness manually.
This method gives you the most accurate results.
Method 8: Update Display Drivers
Sometimes, brightness controls disappear because of outdated drivers.
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters.
- Right-click your GPU → Update driver.
- Restart your PC.
Once updated, brightness controls often return.
Why Can’t I Change Brightness in Windows 11?
- You’re using a desktop without monitor control enabled.
- Your display drivers are outdated or missing.
- Battery saver mode may limit brightness.
- HDR mode sometimes locks brightness levels.
Extra Tips for Managing Brightness
- Use Night Light: Reduces blue light for nighttime use.
- Set a schedule: In Settings → System → Display → Night Light settings.
- Keyboard shortcuts: Learn your laptop’s brightness keys for instant changes.
How Bright Should Your Screen Be?
There’s no perfect number, but here’s a rule of thumb:
- Bright daylight: 80–100% brightness.
- Indoor lighting: 40–70%.
- Dark room: 20–40% to protect your eyes.
Does Higher Brightness Affect Battery Life?
Yes! The brighter your screen, the faster your laptop battery drains. If you’re on the go, consider lowering brightness when not necessary.
The Bottom Line
Windows 11 gives you several ways to adjust brightness—from quick sliders to advanced GPU controls. Whether you’re working late, watching a movie, or presenting in a well-lit room, you can now tweak brightness exactly how you want it.
Conclusion
Your screen brightness can make or break your computing experience. With the steps above, you can easily find the perfect brightness for your needs—without fumbling through confusing menus or wasting time.
So the next time your screen feels a bit too dim or glaringly bright, you know exactly where to go.
FAQs
1. Why is my brightness slider missing in Windows 11?
It’s often due to outdated or missing display drivers. Update them via Device Manager.
2. Can I control brightness on an external monitor?
Yes, but usually through the monitor’s built-in buttons, not Windows settings.
3. Is there a shortcut to instantly change brightness?
On laptops, yes—use the brightness keys (Fn + F1/F2 or similar). On desktops, use Quick Settings.
4. Does increasing brightness damage the screen?
Not directly, but prolonged high brightness may slightly reduce the panel’s lifespan over many years.
5. Can Windows 11 adjust brightness automatically?
Yes! Enable adaptive brightness in Settings → System → Display.