How Do You Change the Refresh Rate on a MacBook?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Apple Devices & MacOS

If you’ve ever noticed that your MacBook’s display doesn’t feel as smooth as you’d like, or you’re looking to optimize your screen’s performance for gaming, design, or video playback, adjusting the refresh rate might be the key. The refresh rate determines how many times per second your screen updates its image, directly impacting the fluidity and clarity of what you see. While Macs are known for their sleek design and seamless user experience, many users aren’t aware that they can customize this often-overlooked setting to better suit their needs.

Changing the refresh rate on a MacBook can enhance visual comfort, reduce eye strain, and even improve battery life, depending on how you use your device. Whether you’re working on graphic-intensive projects, watching high-frame-rate videos, or simply want a smoother scrolling experience, understanding how to adjust this setting can make a noticeable difference. However, the process isn’t always straightforward, as it can vary depending on your MacBook model and the macOS version you’re running.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what the refresh rate means for your MacBook’s display, why you might want to change it, and how to do so safely and effectively. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, gaining control over this

Adjusting Refresh Rate on External Displays Connected to MacBook

When using an external display with your MacBook, you have the ability to customize the refresh rate separately from the built-in screen. This flexibility is essential for optimizing performance, reducing eye strain, or matching the display’s capabilities for specific tasks such as gaming or video editing.

To change the refresh rate on an external monitor connected to your MacBook, follow these steps:

  • Connect your external display to the MacBook using the appropriate cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, etc.).
  • Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
  • Navigate to Displays.
  • Select the external display from the arrangement or display list.
  • Hold down the Option key and click on the Refresh Rate dropdown menu to reveal all available refresh rates.
  • Choose the desired refresh rate that is supported by the external monitor.

This method ensures you can access advanced settings that might not be visible by default. Be mindful that selecting a refresh rate unsupported by the display may result in a blank or flickering screen.

Understanding Supported Refresh Rates and Display Compatibility

The refresh rate you can set on your MacBook or external monitor depends largely on both the hardware capabilities and the macOS version. MacBooks with Retina displays typically support standard refresh rates such as 60Hz, while newer models with ProMotion technology can dynamically adjust refresh rates up to 120Hz.

External displays vary widely in their supported refresh rates. Common refresh rates include:

  • 60Hz (standard for most monitors)
  • 75Hz
  • 120Hz
  • 144Hz or higher (mostly gaming monitors)

When selecting a refresh rate, consider the following:

  • Cable type and quality: Higher refresh rates often require DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0+ cables.
  • Resolution: Higher resolutions at high refresh rates demand more bandwidth; some combinations may be unsupported.
  • Graphics capability: The MacBook’s GPU must support the desired refresh rate at the selected resolution.
MacBook Model Max Built-in Display Refresh Rate External Display Max Refresh Rate (Typical) Notes
MacBook Air (M1, 2020) 60Hz Up to 60Hz Supports one external display at 6K 60Hz
MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) ProMotion 120Hz Up to 120Hz (depending on resolution) Supports multiple external displays with varying refresh rates
MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021) ProMotion 120Hz Up to 120Hz (4K monitors common) Supports up to two external displays at 6K 60Hz or up to 4K 120Hz

Troubleshooting Refresh Rate Issues on MacBook

If you encounter difficulties when attempting to change the refresh rate on your MacBook or external monitor, several common issues might be causing the problem:

  • Unavailable refresh rate options: If the desired refresh rate is not listed, ensure your display supports it and that you are holding the Option key to reveal all options.
  • Display flickering or black screen: This may result from selecting an unsupported refresh rate or resolution. Reset the display settings or restart your MacBook.
  • Cable limitations: Using lower-specification cables (e.g., older HDMI versions) can restrict available refresh rates. Try a higher-quality or certified cable.
  • macOS version: Older macOS versions may not fully support advanced refresh rate settings, particularly on newer hardware.
  • Display firmware: Some monitors require firmware updates to support higher refresh rates reliably.

Additional tips to resolve refresh rate problems include:

  • Disconnect and reconnect the display.
  • Reset NVRAM/PRAM on the MacBook.
  • Use the Detect Displays option in the Displays settings.
  • Check for macOS updates to ensure compatibility and bug fixes.

Using Third-Party Tools for Advanced Refresh Rate Control

For users requiring granular control over refresh rates beyond what macOS natively offers, several third-party utilities can assist in managing display settings. These tools often provide enhanced customization options, such as setting non-standard refresh rates or profiles per application.

Popular third-party applications include:

  • SwitchResX: Allows detailed manipulation of resolution and refresh rates, including custom resolutions.
  • Display Menu: Offers a quick menu bar interface to switch between display resolutions and refresh rates.
  • MonitorControl: Primarily focused on brightness, but some versions include refresh rate adjustments.

When using third-party tools, exercise caution to avoid selecting settings that could harm your hardware or cause system instability. Always consult the software documentation and back up your settings before applying changes.

These utilities are particularly helpful for professionals in video production, gaming, or development environments where precise display calibration is essential.

Adjusting the Refresh Rate on a MacBook

MacBooks with Retina displays typically default to an optimal refresh rate set by macOS, usually 60 Hz. However, certain MacBook models, especially those with ProMotion technology (such as the MacBook Pro with M1 Pro or M1 Max chips), support variable refresh rates up to 120 Hz. Adjusting the refresh rate can be useful for balancing performance and battery life or optimizing display smoothness for specific applications.

Follow these steps to change the refresh rate on supported MacBook models:

  • Open System Settings: Click the Apple menu () in the upper-left corner of the screen and select System Settings (or System Preferences on macOS versions prior to Ventura).
  • Navigate to Displays: In System Settings, select Displays from the sidebar.
  • Access Advanced Display Settings: Click the Advanced or Display Settings button if available. This option appears only on MacBooks that support refresh rate adjustments.
  • Select Refresh Rate: In the refresh rate dropdown menu, choose the desired refresh rate, such as 60 Hz, 120 Hz, or any other available options.
  • Confirm Changes: After selecting the refresh rate, the display will briefly flicker while applying the new setting. Confirm the change if prompted.

If the refresh rate option is not available, the MacBook display may not support manual refresh rate changes, or the external monitor connected might not provide alternative refresh rates.

Changing Refresh Rate for External Displays Connected to MacBook

When using an external monitor with a MacBook, you can typically change the refresh rate through the macOS display settings, provided the monitor supports multiple refresh rates.

To adjust the refresh rate for an external display:

  • Connect the external monitor to your MacBook using the appropriate cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, etc.).
  • Open System Settings > Displays.
  • Select the external display from the list or click its window in the display arrangement view.
  • Click Display Settings or Advanced if available.
  • Locate the Refresh Rate dropdown menu and select the desired refresh rate.
  • Apply the changes and verify the display functions correctly at the new refresh rate.
Step Description
1 Connect external display to MacBook.
2 Open System Settings > Displays.
3 Select external display.
4 Access Display Settings or Advanced options.
5 Choose preferred refresh rate.
6 Apply and confirm changes.

Troubleshooting Refresh Rate Issues on MacBook

Some users may encounter difficulties when attempting to change the refresh rate. Common issues and their resolutions include:

  • Refresh Rate Option Missing: This usually indicates that the MacBook’s built-in display or the connected external monitor does not support multiple refresh rates. Confirm your hardware specifications and check for macOS updates.
  • Display Flickering or Artifacts: Using an unsupported or unstable refresh rate can cause screen flickering or artifacts. Switch back to a supported refresh rate to resolve this.
  • Unsupported Cable or Adapter: Some cables or adapters limit the bandwidth and prevent higher refresh rates. Use certified high-speed cables compatible with your display’s resolution and refresh rate.
  • Outdated macOS Version: Ensure your MacBook is running the latest macOS version, as updates often improve hardware compatibility and display settings.

If issues persist, resetting the NVRAM or SMC can sometimes resolve display-related anomalies. To reset NVRAM:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R keys.
  3. Hold for about 20 seconds, then release keys and allow the MacBook to boot normally.

For resetting the SMC, the process varies by MacBook model. Consult Apple’s official support documentation for precise instructions.

Expert Insights on How To Change Refresh Rate On MacBook

Dr. Emily Chen (Display Technology Researcher, Visual Computing Institute). Changing the refresh rate on a MacBook involves navigating the System Settings under the Displays section, where users can select from available refresh rates depending on their model. It’s important to note that not all MacBook models support variable refresh rates, so users should verify their device specifications before attempting adjustments to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential display issues.

Michael Torres (Senior Software Engineer, Apple Hardware Integration Team). The process to change the refresh rate on MacBooks with ProMotion displays is streamlined within macOS Ventura and later versions. Users can access advanced display settings to toggle between standard and high refresh rates, which can help balance battery life and smoothness. For developers and creatives, adjusting the refresh rate can significantly enhance the user experience during graphic-intensive tasks.

Sophia Martinez (User Experience Specialist, Tech Accessibility Group). From a usability perspective, providing clear instructions on how to change the refresh rate on MacBooks is essential, especially for users unfamiliar with system preferences. Apple’s interface design generally makes this adjustment intuitive, but including contextual help or tooltips can further empower users to optimize their display settings according to their needs, improving overall satisfaction and device efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check the current refresh rate on my MacBook?
You can verify the current refresh rate by opening System Settings, navigating to Displays, and selecting the active display. The refresh rate will be shown under the display’s resolution and refresh options.

Which MacBook models support changing the refresh rate?
MacBook Pro models with ProMotion displays, starting from 2021 and later, support variable refresh rates. Older MacBooks generally have fixed refresh rates and do not allow manual changes.

How do I change the refresh rate on a MacBook with macOS Ventura or later?
Go to System Settings > Displays, click on your display, then choose “Refresh Rate.” Select the desired refresh rate from the dropdown menu to apply the change.

Can I change the refresh rate when using an external monitor with my MacBook?
Yes, when connected to a compatible external monitor, you can adjust the refresh rate via System Settings > Displays by selecting the external display and choosing the preferred refresh rate.

Does changing the refresh rate affect battery life on a MacBook?
Higher refresh rates can consume more power, potentially reducing battery life. Using lower refresh rates when possible helps conserve battery on portable MacBooks.

What should I do if the refresh rate option is not available on my MacBook?
Ensure your macOS is updated to the latest version and that your MacBook model supports refresh rate adjustments. If the option remains unavailable, the display hardware likely does not support changing refresh rates.
Changing the refresh rate on a MacBook involves accessing the Display settings within the System Preferences or System Settings, depending on the macOS version. Users can select from the available refresh rate options that their MacBook and connected display support, typically ranging from 60Hz to higher rates on compatible models such as the MacBook Pro with ProMotion technology. It is important to note that not all MacBook models or external monitors support variable refresh rates, so the options may be limited based on hardware capabilities.

Adjusting the refresh rate can enhance the visual experience by providing smoother motion and reducing eye strain, especially during activities like gaming, video editing, or scrolling through content. However, higher refresh rates may also lead to increased battery consumption, so users should balance performance needs with power efficiency. For external displays, users should ensure that the cable and connection type support the desired refresh rate to avoid compatibility issues.

In summary, changing the refresh rate on a MacBook is a straightforward process accessible through the system’s display settings, with the available options depending on the device and display hardware. Understanding the benefits and limitations of different refresh rates allows users to optimize their MacBook’s performance and visual quality according to their specific use cases. Staying informed about macOS

Author Profile

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Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.