5 Different Ways to Change Brightness in Windows 11

it’s important to adjust your computer’s brightness—especially if you spend long hours in front of a display. Matching your screen brightness to your room lighting can significantly improve visual comfort and productivity.

If you’re using Windows 11, there are several simple ways to adjust brightness settings. Whether you recently upgraded from Windows 10 or are setting up a new device, this guide walks you through the available methods.

In addition to brightness controls, Windows 11 also includes features like Night Light, which reduces blue light exposure for more comfortable extended use.

How to Change Brightness on Windows 11

1. Adjust Brightness Using the Settings App

Follow these steps to change brightness through the Settings app:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
   Alternatively, click the Start menu and select the Settings (gear icon).

2. Click on System, then select Display.

3. Under Brightness & color, locate the Brightness slider.

4. Drag the slider left or right to adjust the screen brightness to your preferred level.

5. Close Settings when finished.

This method provides the most detailed display configuration options.

2. Change Brightness Using Quick Settings

The Quick Settings panel offers a faster way to adjust brightness:

1. Press Win + A to open the Quick Settings panel.
   You can also click on the volume, network, or battery icon in the taskbar.

2. Locate the Brightness slider.

3. Move the slider to adjust the brightness level.

4. Close the panel once done.

This is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to manage screen brightness in Windows 11.

3. Use Keyboard Hotkeys

Most laptops include dedicated brightness keys:

• These are typically located on the F2 and F3 keys (or nearby function keys).

• Look for icons resembling a sun symbol.

• You may need to hold the Fn key while pressing the brightness key.

If the hotkeys do not work, ensure that your display and keyboard drivers are properly installed and updated.

4. Adjust Brightness Using PowerShell

For advanced users, brightness can be adjusted via PowerShell (for devices with built-in displays):

1. Click the Search icon, type PowerShell, and open the application.

2. Enter the appropriate brightness command and replace the value with your desired brightness level (0–100).

3. Press Enter to apply the changes.

Note: This method is intended for users comfortable with command-line tools.

5. Change Brightness Using Command Prompt

You can also adjust brightness using Command Prompt:

1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

2. Enter the PowerShell brightness command and replace the brightness value (0–100) with your preferred level.

3. Press Enter to apply the change.

4. Close Command Prompt once finished.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting brightness in Windows 11 is straightforward and can help create a more comfortable viewing experience. Whether you use the Settings app, Quick Settings, keyboard shortcuts, or command-line tools, you can quickly customize your display to match your environment.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only. Adjusting screen brightness and enabling features such as Night Light may help improve viewing comfort, but they do not replace professional medical advice. If you experience persistent eye strain, headaches, dizziness, or other vision-related symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Always follow your device manufacturer’s guidelines when modifying system settings.