Screen tearing is that split, mismatched look where the top and bottom of a moving image do not line up, usually during games or fast video. It happens when your graphics card and monitor fall out of sync, and it is fixable with a few display settings.
What you'll need
- A computer with adjustable display or graphics settings
Step by step
- Turn on VSync in the app or gameLook in a game's video or graphics options for VSync and enable it. This caps the frame output to match the monitor and is the most direct cure for tearing.
- Enable the driver's sync optionIn the NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD software, set Vertical Sync on, or turn on G-Sync or FreeSync if your monitor supports it for smoother results without added lag.
- Match your refresh rateOpen your display settings and confirm the refresh rate is set to the monitor's highest supported value, such as 60Hz, 120Hz, or 144Hz, rather than a lower fallback.
- Update your graphics driversDownload the latest driver from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel, or from your laptop maker. Outdated drivers are a common cause of sync problems.
- Cap your frame rateIf tearing continues, set a frame rate limit equal to your refresh rate in the driver software or game so the card never outpaces the display.
- Check the cable and portA loose or damaged HDMI or DisplayPort cable can cause sync glitches. Reseat it, or try a different cable or port.
Handy tips
- G-Sync and FreeSync usually beat plain VSync because they avoid the slight input lag VSync can add.
- If VSync makes controls feel sluggish, try a frame rate cap set one or two frames below your refresh rate instead.
FAQ
Does screen tearing damage my monitor?
No. It is a display sync issue, not a hardware fault, and it does no harm to the screen or graphics card.
Why does tearing only show up in games?
Games push frames as fast as possible, so they are most likely to outrun the monitor. Video and desktop use is usually already synced.
Should I use VSync or FreeSync?
If your monitor supports FreeSync or G-Sync, use that. It reduces tearing without the input lag that VSync can introduce.