Screen flickering can be a real headache, and the cause can either be software-related or hardware-related. Knowing which one is the culprit is the first step to fixing the problem.

Key Takeaways

Screen flickering can be caused by software issues like outdated drivers or problematic apps, or by hardware problems such as a loose cable or a failing display panel.
Use the Task Manager test to check if the issue is system-wide or app-specific.
Booting into Safe Mode can help determine if the problem is software-related.
For software issues, updating or rolling back the graphics driver, adjusting the refresh rate, or identifying and fixing the problematic app are the main solutions.
If the problem is hardware-related, testing with an external monitor and checking for physical screen movement issues can help identify the cause.
Consider the cost of repair versus the value of the device and its remaining security support before deciding on a course of action.

How do I know if my screen flickering is a software or hardware issue?

To determine whether your screen flickering is due to software or hardware, you can perform two simple tests:

Task Manager test: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. If Task Manager flickers along with the rest of the screen, the issue is likely with the display driver or refresh rate. If Task Manager remains stable while the rest of the screen flickers, the problem is probably with a specific application.
Safe Mode test: Restart your computer in Safe Mode by going to Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup. If the flickering stops in Safe Mode, the issue is almost certainly software-related.

What should I do if the problem is software-related?

1. Update or roll back the graphics driver

A corrupted or outdated graphics driver is one of the most common causes of screen flickering. To fix this, you should:

Download the latest driver from the GPU manufacturer’s website (Intel, AMD, or NVIDIA) or from your laptop manufacturer’s support page.
If the flickering started right after a driver update, you might need to roll back the driver. To do this, go to Device Manager > Display adapters > your GPU > Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver.

2. Check the refresh rate

Incorrect refresh rate settings can also cause flickering. To check and adjust the refresh rate:

Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.
Set the refresh rate to the panel’s rated value, which is usually 60 Hz. If your laptop supports higher refresh rates like 120 Hz or 144 Hz, you can try those as well.
A refresh rate set too low or higher than the panel supports can lead to flickering.

3. Identify and fix the problematic app

If the Task Manager test indicated that a specific app is causing the flickering, consider the following:

Think about any new apps you’ve installed recently. Older utilities and some monitoring or overlay tools are common culprits.
Try updating the app to the latest version or, if necessary, uninstalling it to see if the problem persists.

What if the problem is hardware-related?

If the flickering continues in Safe Mode, worsens when you move or flex the screen, or if you notice lines and color distortion, the issue is likely hardware-related. Here’s what you can do:

Test with an external monitor: Connect your laptop to an external display. If the external monitor works fine, the problem is probably with your laptop’s panel or its internal ribbon cable. If the external monitor also flickers, the graphics hardware might be at fault.
Flickering that occurs only at certain hinge angles suggests a loose or failing display cable, which is a repairable issue.

When should I seek professional help?

While panel and cable replacements are possible repairs, they can be costly. Consider the following factors before deciding:

Cost of repair: Compare the cost of repair to the value of your device.
Remaining security support: Check the security-support window for your device. If it’s nearing the end of its support lifecycle, it might be more cost-effective to replace the device.
If an external monitor works fine, you can continue using your laptop as a desktop in the meantime.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my screen flicker only in one app?

That app is likely using hardware acceleration in a way that your graphics driver mishandles. Turning off “hardware acceleration” in the app’s settings can often resolve the issue.

Can a low battery cause flickering?

While it’s rare for a low battery to cause flickering on its own, power-saving features can sometimes reduce brightness or refresh rates, which might look like flickering. Try plugging in your laptop to see if the problem persists.

Is flickering always fixable?

Software-related flickering issues are usually fixable. Hardware-related issues can be repaired, but they often come with a cost. The external monitor test can help you determine whether the issue is software or hardware-related.

Can a virus cause screen flickering?

Yes, certain types of malware can interfere with your system’s display settings and cause flickering. Running a full system scan with a reputable antivirus program can help identify and remove such threats.

What if my laptop screen flickers after waking up from sleep?

This could be due to a graphics driver issue or a problem with the power management settings. Updating the graphics driver or adjusting the power settings might resolve the issue.

Screen flickering: is it software or hardware?