How to Fix Screen Size Too Big or Small on Windows

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Fixing Screen Size Too Big or Small on Windows

If the screen size on your Windows computer is too big or too small, follow these steps to adjust it:

  1. Right-Click on Desktop:
    • Right-click on an empty area of your desktop.
  2. Select Display Settings:
    • Choose “Display settings” from the context menu.
  3. Adjust Resolution:
    • In the Display settings menu, scroll down to the “Resolution” dropdown.
    • Select a resolution that best fits your screen. Common resolutions include 1920x1080 (Full HD) and 1366x768.
  4. Adjust Scaling:
    • Scroll down to the “Scale and layout” section.
    • Adjust the scaling percentage to make text and other items larger or smaller. Common settings include 100%, 125%, and 150%.
  5. Apply Changes:
    • Click “Apply” to save the changes.
    • Your screen may flicker briefly as the new settings are applied.
  6. Test the Settings:
    • Ensure the new resolution and scaling settings are comfortable for you.
    • If not, repeat the steps to adjust further.
  7. Check Monitor Settings:
    • Ensure your monitor is set to the correct aspect ratio and resolution.
    • Use the monitor’s built-in menu to adjust settings if needed.
  8. Update Graphics Drivers:
    • Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date by going to Device Manager, expanding “Display adapters,” right-clicking your graphics card, and selecting “Update driver”. You can also update your graphic drivers manually or using driver updater software.  
  9. Restart Your Computer:
    • Restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect properly.
  10. Use Compatibility Mode:
    • For older programs that do not display correctly, right-click the program’s shortcut, select “Properties,” go to the “Compatibility” tab, and adjust the settings.

Contact Support.Com

If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below, or Contact Support.Com for Personalized Assistance.

1. Introduction

When the size of the text and objects are too large or too small for you to see on your Windows PC's or tablet's display, it can become incredibly difficult to use.

This guide will walk you through making sure your display settings are configured just right to make it as easy to use.

What You'll Need:

  • No extra tools or supplies are needed.

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Before You Begin:

Extra instructions.

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Large and small resolutions on Windows PC, side by side.

2. Adjust the Scale and Display Resolution

In Windows, you can change the resolution and scaling to make things clearer for your eyes and easier to use. Screen resolution refers to the clarity of the text and images shown on the screen. At higher resolutions, such as 1600 x 1200 pixels, items appear sharper. They also appear smaller so more items can fit on the screen. At lower resolutions, such as 800 x 600 pixels, fewer items fit on the screen, but they appear larger. Scaling adjusts the size of text, icons, and other user interface elements to make the screen easier for people to see and use.

On Windows 10

  1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
Start menu with Settings highlighted.
  1. Go to System.
Settings with System highlighted.
  1. In Display, check the Scale and Resolution options, and adjust them to make your screen look proper. Setting to an option labeled (Recommended) is often the best choice.
Display with Scale and Resolution highlighted.
  1. If you make a change, you'll be asked to make sure you can still see what is on the screen. If it looks proper, select Keep changes, otherwise, select Revert, or in case you can't see what's on the screen, wait 15 seconds for it to revert automatically.
Keep Display Settings dialog in Windows 10.

On Windows 8

  1. Move the mouse to the bottom or top right corner of the screen to show the Charms bar.
  2. If you're using a tablet, slide your finger inward from the right edge of the screen.
Top and bottom right corners pointed out in Windows 8.
  1. Then select Settings.
Settings option highlighted in Charms bar of Windows 8.
  1. And go to Change PC Settings.
Change PC Settings option highlighted in Windows 8 settings.
  1. After that, select PC and devices.
PC and devices option highlighted in Windows 8 settings.
  1. Then select Display.
Display option highlighted in Windows 8 settings.
  1. Adjust the resolution and scale to make your screen look proper then click Apply. Setting to an option labeled Recommended or Default is often the best choice.
Resolution and scale pickers, and Apply button highlighted in Windows 8 display settings.
  1. If you make a change, you'll be asked to make sure you can still see what is on the screen. If it looks proper, select Keep changes, otherwise, select Revert, or in case you can't see what's on the screen, wait 15 seconds for it to revert automatically.
Keep Display Settings dialog in Windows 8.