How to adjust screen resolution in Windows 11 and older

You’re not actually stuck with the screen resolution setting your Windows PC came with. In addition to tons of other device personalization options, screen resolutions are customizable on Windows PCs. And adjusting the screen resolution on your Windows machine is easier than you think. All it takes is a quick trip to your Settings app or Control Panel (depending on which version of Windows you’re running) and a few clicks and you’re on your way to an easier-to-view screen.

Here, we’ll show you how to adjust screen resolutions forWindows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 7 PCs.

In Windows 11

Step 1:Navigate to the Windows 11 Settings app.

Step 2:ClickDisplay.

Step 3:Click on the display you want to change the screen resolution for. Displays will be labeled as “1” or “2” if you have multiple displays connected. If you don’t have multiple displays connected, proceed to step 4.

Step 3:In theScale and Layoutsection, clickDisplay Resolution. Pick a resolution and then clickKeep changes.

In Windows 10

Step 1:Navigate to the Windows 10 Settings app.

Step 2:In the Settings app menu, selectSystem. Then selectDisplay(if it’s not already selected).

Step 3:Scroll down to the section labeledScale and Layout.

Step 4:Click on the drop-down menu within theDisplay Resolutionsubsection. Choose your desired resolution from the drop-down menu.

Step 5:In the dialog box that appears, confirm your selection by clicking onKeep Changes. The change in resolution should be immediately visible.

If you’re still using Windows 10, it’s time to upgrade. Check ourWindows 11 reviewto learn more about why you should.

In Windows 7

Step 1:Go to the Control Panel.

Step 2:Within the section labeledAppearance and Personalization, selectAdjust Screen Resolution.

Step 3:Select the drop-down nearResolutionand then drag the slider to your desired resolution. SelectApply.

Step 4:To confirm your changes, chooseKeep. If you change your mind and would rather keep the old resolution, chooseRevert.

On a related note, Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 on June 10, 2025, and if you’re still running Windows 7 you’ll need to upgrade to a later version. At the very least, you shouldupgrade your computer to Windows 10, but for long-term support, and if your comptuer is compatible, you should thenupgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.