How to Fix a Flickering Computer Screen

Troubleshooting Guide from MicroSec™– Your Trusted Computer Repair Experts

Seeing your computer screen flickering while working, gaming, or browsing can be incredibly annoying—and in some cases, even harmful to your eyes. Whether it’s subtle flashes or constant strobe-like behavior, a flickering screen can seriously affect productivity.

At MicroSec™, we specialize in resolving screen and display-related issues with remote and doorstep repair services. In this blog, we’ll break down why your monitor is flickering, what you can do about it, and when to call in the pros.

What Causes a Computer Screen to Flicker?

Screen flickering is often a hardware or software compatibility issue. Here are the most common culprits:

• Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers

• Incorrect refresh rate settings

• Loose or damaged cables

• Faulty display hardware

• Incompatible apps or background processes

• Overheating of the GPU or CPU

• Power supply issues

Knowing the cause is the first step to learning how to fix a flickering monitor effectively.

Why Is My PC Screen Flickering Only Sometimes?

If your screen flickers intermittently, it’s often a software conflict or driver issue.

• Are you seeing flickers only when opening certain apps?

• Does it flicker more on battery vs. plugged in?

• Does it stop after a restart?

These patterns suggest temporary software or power setting issues, which are easier to fix than permanent hardware problems.

How to Fix a Flickering Monitor – Step-by-Step

Let’s go through all the possible solutions, from easy checks to technical fixes.

1. Is Your Cable Properly Connected?

Loose or frayed HDMI, VGA, or DisplayPort cables are a common cause of screen flashing.

• Disconnect and reconnect the cable securely

• Try a different cable or port

• If using a monitor with multiple input modes, ensure the correct input is selected

For laptops: Make sure your laptop display hinges are not damaged, as that can cause flickers, too.

2. Are Your Display Drivers Up to Date?

Outdated or corrupted GPU drivers are a major reason why your monitor keeps flickering.

• Right-click the Start Menu > Device Manager

• Expand Display Adapters

• Right-click your GPU > Update Driver

• If issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the driver from your GPU manufacturer’s website (Intel, NVIDIA, AMD)

3. Have You Adjusted the Refresh Rate?

A mismatch between monitor capabilities and system settings can cause screen flickering problems.

• Go to Display Settings

• Click on Advanced Display Settings

• Under “Refresh Rate,” try setting it to 60Hz, 75Hz, or the highest value supported

A refresh rate that’s too low or too high for your monitor can lead to instability.

4. Are Any Apps Causing the Flickering?

Some third-party apps (especially older ones) can clash with display drivers.

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager

• If the Task Manager doesn’t flicker, the issue is likely software-related

• Try uninstalling recently installed apps or performing a clean boot

5. Does It Happen in Safe Mode?

Booting into Safe Mode can help isolate hardware vs. software problems.

• Restart your PC and press F8 or Shift + Restart

• Select Safe Mode

• If the screen doesn’t flicker in Safe Mode, the issue is almost certainly driver or software.

6. Is Your Monitor Itself Faulty?

If you're using an external monitor:

• Try it with a different computer

• If it still flickers, the monitor is likely the problem

• If another monitor works fine with your PC, your current one might need replacement or repair

7. Is Overheating Causing the Issue?

Thermal stress can cause both your CPU and GPU to act unpredictably, resulting in display issues.

• Use software like HWMonitor or Core Temp to check temps

• Make sure your fans and heat sinks are dust-free

• Consider reapplying thermal paste or using a cooling pad

8. Have You Tried a System Restore or OS Update?

If the flickering began after a system update, try:

• System Restore to revert to a stable point

• Installing the latest Windows or macOS updates

• Scanning for malware, which may interfere with system files
  

Why Does My Monitor Keep Flickering on Battery?

If you notice flickering only when your laptop is on battery:

• Open Power Options > Select Balanced or High Performance

• Disable any settings under Intel Graphics Settings → Power → Display Power Saving Technology

Your system might be trying to conserve battery at the cost of screen stability.

When Should You Contact MicroSec™?

If you've tried all the above and the problem persists, it’s time to let a pro take over. Our certified techs at MicroSec™offer:

• On-site and remote display diagnosis

• GPU and screen replacement

• Cable and connector repair

• Fixes for driver, OS, and power issues

We specialize in quick turnaround and trustworthy repair, especially for homeowners, senior citizens, students, and micro-businesses.

FAQs 

Q1. Why is my computer monitor flickering even after changing the cable?

If a new cable doesn’t solve the issue, it may be due to a bad GPU, corrupted driver, or failing screen.

Q2. What causes a computer screen to flicker only when I open apps?

That’s usually a driver-software compatibility problem. Updating your GPU drivers or uninstalling conflicting apps often helps.

Q3. Can flickering damage my computer?

While flickering won’t damage your system, it could be a symptom of serious issues like overheating or hardware failure.

Q4. How do I fix a flickering screen on Windows 10/11?

Try updating drivers, adjusting refresh rate, disabling problematic apps, and checking cables. If unsure, call MicroSec™ for expert help.

Q5. Why does my monitor keep flickering after sleep or a restart?

This is often a display driver bug or a power setting issue. A driver reinstall or a power plan adjustment can usually fix it.

Final Words

A flickering monitor isn’t just annoying—it’s disruptive. Whether it’s due to driver issues, hardware failure, or display settings, most problems can be resolved with a few careful steps.

If you’re still wondering how to fix a flickering computer screen, let MicroSec™ take the guesswork out. We offer fast, affordable, and friendly computer repair services across major cities, right at your doorstep or remotely.

Need help fixing a screen flicker issue? Get in touch with MicroSec™ today. 

Our expert technicians are ready to diagnose and repair your display problems, no matter where you are.