How to Enable High Dynamic Range on Windows 11

In the past, computer screens could only show black and white, or sometimes black and green. But today’s monitors can display millions of colors. If you have an HDR (High Dynamic Range) monitor, it can show over a billion different colors, making the older range seem small. However, HDR is not always turned on by default on many computers. This guide will help you understand HDR, its benefits, and how to enable it on Windows 11.

Understanding HDR

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, in simple terms, means that your monitor can show more colors and make images look more real. It does this in two important ways:

1. Color: An HDR monitor can show many more colors than a regular one. This makes pictures look more like real life because it can show shades that standard monitors can’t.
2. Contrast: This means how bright and dark the images can be. An HDR monitor can show brighter images and a wider range of bright and dark, making pictures look more vibrant.

Advantages of an HDR Monitor

Having an HDR monitor is great for a few reasons:

1. Better Colors: HDR monitors can show colors more accurately. This means pictures look the way they should, without guesswork.
2. Darker Blacks and More Details: HDR monitors can show really dark parts better. This helps you see hidden things in games or videos.
3. Clear Visibility: HDR makes sure you don’t have to adjust your screen’s brightness all the time.

Checking if Your Monitor Supports HDR

You can check if your monitor supports HDR by looking for words like HDR10, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, or HLG on its packaging. If your monitor supports HDR, you’ll have an option to turn it on or off. If not, this option won’t be there.

How to Enable HDR on Windows 11

Here’s how you can turn on HDR on Windows 11:

1. Press the “Windows key + I” to open Settings, then click on “System” on the left-hand side.
2. Click on “Display” on the right side.
3. Under “Brightness & Color,” click on “HDR.”
4. In the HDR section, turn on the “HDR video streaming” button.

If you don’t see this switch, it means your monitor doesn’t support HDR.

How to Enable HDR on Battery in Windows 11

For laptops that can use HDR, it might be turned off when using battery power to save energy. Here’s how to turn it on:

1. Press the “Windows key + I” to open Settings, then click on “System” on the left-hand side.
2. Click on “Display” on the right side.
3. Under “Brightness & Color,” click on “HDR.”
4. Under “Battery Options,” select “Allow Streaming HDR Video on Battery.”

Now, you can enjoy HDR content even when your laptop is not plugged in.

Conclusion

If you have an HDR-capable monitor, turning on HDR in Windows 11 will make your display show colors and contrasts at their best. This can greatly improve your experience when watching movies or playing games. Make sure to check if your monitor supports HDR, and if it does, follow these steps to enjoy the full potential of your display.