Why Is My 144Hz Monitor Running at 60Hz?
A 144Hz monitor locked at 60Hz is usually a cable, port, or settings mismatch you can fix in minutes.
Updated February 14, 2026
At a Glance
Start here if you only need the short answer.
- 1Your monitor is usually stuck at 60Hz because the current signal path cannot carry 144Hz or the setting is not enabled.
- 2The most common causes are wrong cable/port, monitor OSD limits, and Windows or GPU panel settings.
- 3Fixing those three areas solves most 144Hz lock issues.
Fast 144Hz Troubleshooting Table
Each target below shows whether this setup can deliver it reliably.
| Target | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Using HDMI 1.4 path | Usually No | Often capped below target refresh |
| Using HDMI 2.0 at 1080p/1440p | Yes | If monitor supports 144Hz over HDMI |
| Using DisplayPort 1.4 | Yes | Commonly best for PC 144Hz |
| OS/GPU set to 60Hz | No | Must be changed manually |
Why 60Hz Is the Fallback
When devices cannot agree on a high-refresh mode, they often fall back to safe defaults like 60Hz.
1080p 144Hz
Moderate bandwidth
1440p 144Hz
Higher bandwidth
4K 144Hz
Very high bandwidth (often HDMI 2.1 / DP + DSC)
Uncertain cable/adapter path
Can force fallback to 60Hz
A reliable 144Hz setup needs all parts aligned: GPU output version, monitor input capability, cable quality, and software settings.
Treat the setup as one end-to-end chain, not separate components.
Most Common Causes of 144Hz at 60Hz
If something is not working, these are the highest-impact checks.
- 1
Wrong input on the monitor
Your monitor may only support 144Hz on a specific input.
- Switch to the full-bandwidth DP/HDMI input
- Check per-port refresh support in the monitor manual
- 2
Old or low-grade cable
Cable instability or limited rating can hide higher refresh options.
- Replace cable with certified known-good cable
- Test direct connection without adapter
- 3
Refresh rate not set in OS
The display can stay at default 60Hz until changed.
- Open Advanced Display settings and select 144Hz
- Confirm in NVIDIA/AMD control panel too
- 4
Monitor OSD mode disabled
Some models require enabling high-refresh or gaming mode.
- Enable high refresh mode in OSD
- Disable compatibility modes that cap refresh
Connection Choices for 144Hz
Use this side-by-side view when deciding between the two options.
| Feature | Usually Works Best | Common Bottlenecks |
|---|---|---|
| DisplayPort 1.4 direct | Strong for PC 144Hz | Adapters can reduce reliability |
| HDMI 2.0/2.1 direct | Strong on compatible monitors | Older HDMI ports may cap refresh |
| Dock/KVM path | Convenient | Frequent refresh bottleneck |
| Untuned OS settings | Easy to fix | Default often remains 60Hz |
Decision Guide
Use this quick split to decide if this setup is enough or if you should move to a stronger option.
Great Fit If...
- You can connect directly with DP or modern HDMI
- Your monitor supports 144Hz on that input
- You can set 144Hz in OS/GPU controls
Consider Another Option If...
- Your path includes old adapters or capped docks
- Your monitor port is limited to 60Hz
- Your GPU output standard is below requirement
Common Questions
Fast answers to the questions people ask most before buying.
Can HDMI 2.0 run 144Hz at 1440p?
Yes, if your monitor supports that mode over HDMI and your GPU HDMI output is version 2.0 or newer.
Why is my 144Hz monitor stuck at 60Hz?
Most 60Hz locks come from using the wrong port/cable combination, limited monitor OSD settings, or refresh rate settings left at 60Hz in the OS/GPU panel.
Why does Windows only show 60Hz options?
That usually means the active cable/port path is negotiating a lower mode or the monitor input is not set to high bandwidth.