8 Ways to Solve HDR Problems on Windows 11

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is a feature that enhances your viewing experience by delivering vibrant colors, better contrast, and improved brightness. However, since upgrading to Windows 11, many users have reported HDR issues, such as dull colors, screen flickering, or HDR malfunctioning—the same problems reported for the Windows 11 24H2 Auto HDR bug. 

If you’re experiencing similar problems, this guide provides practical solutions to restore HDR functionality on your Windows 11 device.

Common Causes of HDR Problems on Windows 11

• Incompatible hardware or drivers.
• Incorrect HDR settings.
• Outdated or corrupted system files.
• Conflicting display configurations.

SOLVED: HDR Issue on Windows 11

Ensure Your Hardware Supports HDR

Ensure your setup supports HDR. Both your monitor and GPU must be HDR-compatible. Additionally, your monitor should have HDR enabled via its on-screen menu.

1. Check Monitor Specifications: Refer to your monitor’s manual or manufacturer’s website to confirm HDR support.
2. Verify GPU Compatibility: Visit the GPU manufacturer’s website to ensure your graphics card supports HDR.
3. Enable HDR on Your Monitor: Access the monitor’s settings and enable HDR.

Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can lead to HDR issues. Updating your drivers ensures compatibility with Windows 11’s HDR settings.

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display Adapters and right-click your graphics card.
3. Choose Update Driver and select Search automatically for drivers.
4. Restart your PC after updating.

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Adjust HDR Settings in Windows 11

Incorrect HDR settings can prevent the feature from functioning correctly. Adjusting these settings often resolves the problem.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System> Display.
3. Scroll down and click HDR.
4. Enable the toggle to use HDR under your connected display.
5. Use the HDR Calibration Tool (if available) to optimize visuals.

Check and Update Windows 11

Windows updates often include fixes for known HDR issues. Ensuring your System is up-to-date can resolve compatibility problems.

1. Open Settings with Win + I.
2. Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
3. Download and install any available updates.
4. Restart your System after the update.

Disable Auto HDR (If Necessary)

Auto HDR is a feature in Windows 11 that automatically enhances non-HDR content. However, it can sometimes cause conflicts.

1. Open Settings and go to System> Display.
2. Click on HDR and find the Auto HDR toggle.
3. Switch it off to see if the issue is resolved.

Calibrate Your Display for HDR

Improper calibration can result in subpar HDR performance. Using the built-in HDR calibration tool can help improve visuals.

1. Open Settings and go to System> Display > HDR.
2. Under HDR Certification, click on Calibrate your display for HDR.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Replace or Check HDMI/DisplayPort Cables

Damaged or incompatible cables can interfere with HDR functionality. Ensure your cables meet the required specifications.

1. Check your cable for support of HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4 standards.
2. Replace old or damaged cables with certified HDR-compatible ones.
3. Reconnect and test HDR functionality.

Reset Display Settings

Misconfigured display settings can sometimes cause HDR problems. Resetting them can often fix the issue.

1. Open Settings and navigate to System> Display.
2. Click on Advanced display settings.
3. Select Reset display settings to revert to default configurations.

Final Thoughts

HDR enhances the visual experience on Windows 11, but issues can arise due to various factors. Following the troubleshooting steps above, you can resolve common HDR problems and enjoy vibrant visuals on your PC. If the issue persists, consider consulting Microsoft support or your hardware manufacturer for further assistance.