Although Windows 11 can automatically adjust the display scaling settings to ensure that elements (text, icons, navigations, and others) are the right size and readable, it's not perfect, and sometimes, adjusting the settings manually may be necessary.
For example, if you do not have perfect eyesight, making the elements bigger on the screen could make things easier to see and use, avoiding stressing your eyes. If you connect an external monitor, using a custom scale setting can help increase the size of the text, icons, and menus across the displays. Changing the display scale may also improve content visibility while showing a PowerPoint presentation on a projector.
In this how-to guide, I will explain how to change the scale settings on a desktop monitor or laptop display.
Recent updatesThis guide has been updated to reflect changes and make sure the instructions are still accurate.
How to change display scale with recommended settings on Windows 11To change a Windows 11 display scale size using the recommended settings, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on System.Click the Display page on the right side.Under the "Scale & layout" section, use the Scale drop-down menu and select the scale setting — for example, 100%, 125%, 150%, and 175%.
Once you complete the steps, the new scale configuration will apply. Although it's not required, you may need to restart the computer to make sure the setting applies correctly for all supported applications.
How to change display scale with custom settings on Windows 11You shouldn't change the scale settings using custom values because it affects the viewing experience. However, if it's necessary, and you do it correctly, it may help you hit that sweet spot.
To set a custom scale size of a display, use these steps:
Get the Windows Central NewsletterAll the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Open Settings.Click on System.Click the Display page on the right side.Select the Scale setting under the "Scale & layout" section.
After you complete the steps, the system will apply the setting you specified.
If the system isn't scaling elements correctly, repeat the steps to select a different value to increase or decrease the scaling value until you reach the correct configuration.
You can always revert the changes using the same instructions outlined above, but in step 4, click the "Turn off custom scaling and sign out" option.
How to make text bigger without changing scale settings on Windows 11If you want to make the text more readable, you should not adjust the scale settings. Instead, you should change the text size settings.
To make text bigger across the desktop, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accessibility.Click the Text size page on the right side.
Once you complete the steps, the screen will flash a "Please wait" message to apply the new text size.
More resourcesFor more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to knowWindows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to knowToday's Best Windows 11 dealsLow Stock
$65.95View Deal
$99.99View Deal
$141.41View DealShow More DealsWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices