How to Set Up HDR on a Gaming PC

What is HDR and why use it on a gaming PC

High Dynamic Range (HDR) expands the range of brightness and color that a display can show compared to standard dynamic range (SDR). In games, HDR can make bright highlights look more intense and dark shadows more detailed, creating a more lifelike image. To take advantage of HDR, you need a compatible monitor, a graphics card that supports HDR output, and an operating system that can manage HDR signals. For a detailed explanation of HDR terminology, see HDR explained for gaming.

Windows 11 includes built-in HDR support and a feature called Auto HDR that automatically converts SDR games to HDR. NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards also offer RTX HDR, which provides additional HDR tuning options. Setting up HDR correctly ensures you get the full benefit of a high-quality display. If you are choosing a monitor, check what monitor HDR level is enough for gaming.

Check your hardware and software for HDR compatibility

Before enabling HDR, verify that each component in your setup supports it. The monitor must accept an HDR signal, usually indicated by HDR10 or a DisplayHDR certification level (such as DisplayHDR 400, 600, or 1000). The graphics card should be capable of outputting HDR over HDMI or DisplayPort. Most modern GPUs from NVIDIA and AMD support HDR, but older models may not. For a checklist of HDR features in a gaming PC, see what to check in a gaming PC for HDR.

Windows 11 is recommended for the best HDR experience, as it includes Auto HDR and a dedicated HDR settings page. Windows 10 also supports HDR, but with fewer automated features. Check your Windows version by going to Settings > System > About. If you are using Windows 11, you can access the HDR settings directly.

Enable HDR in Windows display settings

Once your hardware is confirmed compatible, turn on HDR in Windows. Open Settings > System > Display. Under the Brightness & color section, look for the HDR toggle. Turn it on. If your monitor supports HDR, the screen may briefly go dark and then return with the HDR mode active. For guidance on choosing a monitor that supports HDR, see best gaming monitors for PC.

After enabling HDR, you can adjust the HDR brightness slider to match your preference. Windows 11 also provides an HDR calibration app that can help fine-tune the display. For the best results, use the monitor's own on-screen display to set the HDR mode to a standard like HDR10 or HDR Game.

Use Auto HDR in Windows 11 for SDR games

Windows 11 includes Auto HDR, a feature that automatically converts SDR games to HDR. This works with many DirectX 11 and later titles. To enable Auto HDR, go to Settings > System > Display > HDR, then turn on the Auto HDR toggle. Once active, games that support the feature will display with an expanded color range without any manual changes. For more on HDR display standards, see HDR gaming display standards.

Use RTX HDR on NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards

NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards offer RTX HDR, an additional tool for managing HDR output. RTX HDR can be enabled through the NVIDIA App or the NVIDIA Control Panel. It provides sliders for brightness, contrast, and saturation, allowing you to fine-tune the HDR look to your liking. If you are comparing graphics cards, see best graphics cards for PC gaming.

Enable HDR in the game's video settings

Many modern games include a separate HDR setting in their video or graphics options menu. After enabling HDR in Windows, launch the game and navigate to the display settings. Look for an HDR toggle or a brightness calibration tool. Turn HDR on and follow any on-screen instructions to adjust the peak brightness and black level. For a monitor recommendation, see best 4K gaming monitors or best 1440p gaming monitors.

Troubleshooting common HDR issues

If HDR does not appear to work, start by verifying that your monitor is set to an HDR mode in its on-screen display. Some monitors require you to manually select HDR input. Also confirm that you are using a high-speed HDMI cable (HDMI 2.0 or later) or DisplayPort 1.4 or later that can carry the HDR signal. For a color calibration guide, see how to calibrate monitor color.

What to pick for your play

Questions

Does my monitor need to be HDR-certified to use HDR?

Yes. The monitor must support HDR input, typically indicated by HDR10 or a DisplayHDR certification. Without a compatible display, HDR settings in Windows and games will not produce the intended effect.

Do I need Windows 11 for HDR?

Windows 11 is recommended because it includes Auto HDR and a dedicated HDR calibration app. Windows 10 also supports HDR, but lacks Auto HDR and some tuning options.

What is Auto HDR in Windows 11?

Auto HDR automatically converts SDR games to HDR, expanding the color range and contrast. It works with many DirectX 11 and later games and is enabled in the Windows HDR settings.

What is RTX HDR and how is it different from Windows HDR?

RTX HDR is a feature on NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs that provides additional sliders for brightness, contrast, and saturation. It works alongside Windows HDR and gives you more control over the final image.

Why does HDR look washed out on my monitor?

Washed-out colors can occur if the monitor is not set to an HDR mode, if the HDR brightness slider is too low, or if the cable does not support the required bandwidth. Try adjusting the monitor's on-screen display and the Windows HDR calibration.

Can I use HDR with a non-HDR monitor?

No. HDR requires a display that can accept and render an HDR signal. Using HDR settings on a standard monitor will not improve image quality and may cause incorrect colors.

Do all games support HDR?

No. Only games that include native HDR support or are compatible with Auto HDR will show HDR. Check the game's video settings for an HDR toggle. If not present, Auto HDR may still work on Windows 11.

What cable do I need for HDR?

Use an HDMI 2.0 or later cable, or a DisplayPort 1.4 or later cable. Older cables may not have enough bandwidth to carry the HDR signal, especially at higher resolutions and refresh rates.