Variable refresh rate lets a compatible display adapt its refresh timing to a game’s frame delivery. To use it, the monitor, graphics hardware, driver and connection must support the required mode. A Windows switch cannot add VRR to an incompatible display.
Check the whole display connection
- Check the monitor’s specification and its supported VRR range and inputs.
- Enable its Adaptive-Sync, FreeSync or compatible VRR setting in the monitor menu, if required.
- Use a cable and port that support that mode. Different inputs on the same monitor can have different capabilities.
- Install a supported graphics driver from the PC or GPU maker.
- Review the GPU software’s VRR settings for that particular display.
FreeSync and G-SYNC are names you may see in this area, but support is specific to the hardware and connection. If you use a dock, adapter or laptop with hybrid graphics, check that complete path rather than the monitor alone.
The Windows 10 VRR switch
On compatible Windows 10 installations, open Settings → System → Display → Graphics settings and look for Variable refresh rate. Turn it on where offered, then restart the affected game.
Microsoft‘s explanation of this Windows 10 setting describes an additional option introduced in version 1903 for supported hardware and games. It is not a replacement for the monitor’s or graphics driver’s own VRR configuration.
Windows 11: check graphics and windowed-game settings
Open Settings → System → Display → Graphics and review the defaults available on your version. Microsoft documents Optimizations for windowed games for compatible DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 games in windowed or borderless modes. This can enable modern presentation features, including VRR on supported displays.
A game’s own support, graphics-driver settings and presentation mode still matter. Test the game after one change instead of changing several synchronization options at once.
VRR is different from DRR
| Setting | Main purpose |
|---|---|
| Fixed refresh rate | Choose a supported display rate such as one listed in Advanced display. |
| VRR | Match display timing to changing game-frame delivery within supported limits. |
| Dynamic refresh rate, or DRR | Let supported Windows 11 devices change refresh behavior according to activity. |
Microsoft’s refresh-rate guide explains the display and DRR controls. Choosing Dynamic is not a universal instruction for enabling gaming VRR.
If the option is missing or the game still tears
Confirm that you selected the correct display, its supported connection and a compatible game mode. Read the monitor and GPU documentation. VRR does not guarantee a higher frame rate or remove every source of stutter. With multiple monitors, our guide to opening a program on the main monitor can help you put the game on the intended screen.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enable VRR on any monitor?
No. The monitor, GPU, driver and connection must support it. A missing hardware feature cannot be added by a Windows switch.
Is Dynamic refresh rate the same as gaming VRR?
No. DRR is a Windows display feature that adjusts behavior by activity. Gaming VRR concerns synchronization with frame delivery.
Does VRR increase the game's FPS?
It primarily changes display timing. It does not guarantee that the GPU will render more frames.
Why does VRR work through one port but not another?
The monitor's inputs, cable, adapter, dock and graphics path can have different supported modes. Check the specification for the connection in use.