Change Display Resolution In Ubuntu

6 min read Oct 11, 2024

How to Change Display Resolution in Ubuntu

Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution, provides a user-friendly interface for managing display settings, including resolution. If you're experiencing issues with your screen's resolution, like blurry text or distorted images, or simply want to optimize it for your needs, you can easily adjust it within Ubuntu's settings.

Understanding Display Resolution

Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what display resolution means. Display resolution refers to the number of pixels that your monitor can display horizontally and vertically. A higher resolution means more pixels, resulting in sharper images and more detailed text. However, it's important to note that a higher resolution may also require more processing power from your computer, potentially impacting performance.

Methods for Changing Display Resolution in Ubuntu

Here are several methods to change the display resolution in Ubuntu:

1. Using the Settings App

This is the most straightforward and recommended way to change the display resolution in Ubuntu.

Open the Settings App: Click the Ubuntu logo in the top left corner and select "Settings."
Navigate to Displays: Choose the "Displays" option from the left-hand sidebar.
Select the Resolution: In the "Displays" section, you'll find a dropdown menu labeled "Resolution." Click the menu and choose the desired resolution from the list.
Apply the Change: Ubuntu will automatically apply the new resolution.

2. Using the Command Line

For users who prefer the command line, here's how to change the display resolution using xrandr:

Open the Terminal: Press Ctrl+Alt+T to open the terminal.
List Available Resolutions: Run the command xrandr to list all the available resolutions for your display.
Identify the Desired Resolution: Look for the resolution you want to use. It will be listed as xrandr -s <resolution>.
Change the Resolution: Execute the command xrandr -s <resolution>, replacing <resolution> with the desired resolution from the previous step.
Example: If you want to set the resolution to 1920x1080, run the command xrandr -s 1920x1080.

3. Using the "Display Settings" Tool

Ubuntu provides a dedicated tool called "Display Settings" which allows you to adjust various display settings, including resolution.

Open "Display Settings": Search for "Display Settings" in the Ubuntu search bar and click on the application.
Adjust Resolution: You'll find a drop-down menu for "Resolution." Select the desired resolution.
Confirm: Click "Apply" to confirm the change.

Tips for Choosing the Right Display Resolution

Consider Your Monitor: Different monitors have different maximum resolutions. Always refer to your monitor's specifications to determine the optimal resolution.
Balance between Resolution and Performance: Higher resolutions require more processing power. Choose a resolution that strikes a balance between visual quality and performance.
Experiment and Adjust: If you're unsure about the ideal resolution, experiment with different options and see what works best for you.

Troubleshooting Display Resolution Issues

Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, restarting your computer can resolve display resolution issues.
Check the Monitor Connection: Ensure that your monitor is securely connected to your computer using the correct cable type.
Try a Different Display: If possible, connect to a different display to rule out a problem with your monitor.
Update Your Graphics Drivers: Outdated graphics drivers can cause display resolution problems. Update your drivers to the latest version.
Use the Default Resolution: If you're experiencing issues, try reverting to the default resolution. This might help identify if the chosen resolution is incompatible.

Conclusion

Changing the display resolution in Ubuntu is a simple process that can be accomplished through the settings app, command line, or the "Display Settings" tool. By understanding the concepts and using the appropriate methods, you can optimize your display settings for a comfortable and visually appealing experience. Remember to consider your monitor's capabilities and choose a resolution that balances image quality with performance.