Monitor Is Stuck at 60 Hz

If you have a 120 Hz, 144 Hz, 165 Hz, 240 Hz, or higher-refresh-rate monitor but Windows only allows 60 Hz, check the settings and hardware below.

Step 1: Change the Refresh Rate in Windows

Open:

Settings → System → Display → Advanced display

If you have multiple monitors, select the correct display.

Under Choose a refresh rate, select the highest refresh rate your monitor supports at your chosen resolution.

Step 2: Check the Monitor’s Resolution

Some monitors cannot use their maximum refresh rate at every resolution.

Try selecting the monitor's native resolution.

Then check the refresh-rate options again.

Step 3: Check Your Cable

The display cable and connection standard must support the resolution and refresh rate you are trying to use.

Depending on your setup, this may require an appropriate:

  • DisplayPort cable

  • HDMI cable

Older cables, ports, adapters, docks, or converters may limit available refresh rates.

Step 4: Connect the Monitor to the Graphics Card

On a desktop PC with a dedicated graphics card, the monitor should generally be connected directly to the GPU rather than the motherboard display output.

Check the rear of the PC and verify where the cable is connected.

Step 5: Check the GPU Control Panel

NVIDIA

Open NVIDIA Control Panel and check the resolution and refresh-rate configuration under:

Display → Change resolution

Make sure the correct monitor and refresh rate are selected.

AMD

Open AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition and review your display settings.

Confirm Windows and AMD Software recognize the monitor correctly.

Step 6: Check the Monitor’s Built-In Menu

Some monitors require specific settings to unlock their highest refresh rate.

Using the monitor's physical controls, check for settings related to:

  • Refresh rate

  • DisplayPort mode

  • HDMI mode

  • Overclock mode

  • Gaming mode

Refer to the monitor manufacturer's manual if necessary.

Step 7: Update Your Graphics Driver

Install the latest appropriate NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel graphics driver.

Restart the PC and check Advanced Display settings again.

Step 8: Test Another Cable or Port

If the expected refresh rate still does not appear:

  • Try another DisplayPort or HDMI cable

  • Try another GPU port

  • Avoid unnecessary adapters

  • Test the monitor directly instead of through a dock

Why Does Windows Only Show Certain Refresh Rates?

Windows only displays refresh rates reported as supported by your:

  • Monitor

  • Current resolution

  • GPU

  • Driver

  • Connection type

If the display path cannot support the requested combination, the option may not appear.

Need Help?

When contacting EXM Support, include:

  • Monitor model

  • GPU model

  • Resolution

  • Cable type

  • Current refresh rate

  • Refresh rate you are trying to use