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Change Ubuntu Display Resolution: A Step-by-Step Guide

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 2, 2022 Updated Aug 13, 2026 2 min read
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Changing your Ubuntu display resolution lets you fix blurry text, make items larger on screen, or fit more windows at once. Display resolution controls the total number of pixels, or tiny dots, that make up every image on your screen.

Ubuntu normally picks the best resolution for your monitor automatically based on its hardware specs. When that automatic choice looks wrong, you can manually override it through the Ubuntu Settings app in just a few clicks.

⚡ Quick Answer

Access System Settings, then click Display. Select your desired resolution from the dropdown menu and click Apply. Confirm the changes to keep them.

How to adjust display resolutions in Ubuntu Linux

Tuning the display resolution helps balance text size and workspace area to match physical hardware. Most configuration options live inside a single hub called Settings, which handles everything from user accounts to display layouts.

This panel lets you manage everything from system-wide options to creating new user accounts and performing software updates.

Ubuntu Linux activities overview screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the top bar on your desktop.

In the System menu, choose Settings, as highlighted in the image below.

Ubuntu Linux system menu showing settings option
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

Click on the Display tile to open the panel in the Settings app.

In the System Settings -> Display settings panel, under Device Display, select a resolution that fits your needs.

Ubuntu Linux change resolution settings interface
ubuntu linux change resolution updated

Custom configurations apply independently to each screen when multiple monitors run in extended mode. First, select a display in the preview area.

When you select a resolution, click Apply.

⚠️Warning
The new settings will be applied for 20 seconds before reverting.
Ubuntu display change confirmation dialog
ubuntu display change keep changes

Confirm the new configuration by clicking Keep Changes.

Closing the Settings app finalises the process.

Lowering the resolution from 1920x1080 to 1280x720 makes text and icons larger, which helps when default scaling feels too small on high-density monitors.

  • Changing the display resolution in Ubuntu Linux can optimize the appearance and usability of your desktop.
  • Ubuntu's user-friendly interface enables easy manual adjustment of display resolutions through the System Settings panel.
  • Users can fine-tune the resolution to fit their specific needs, enhancing the visual experience on their Ubuntu Linux system.

How to resize Display in Ubuntu?

Navigate to Settings, find the Display section, and then locate the Resolution option. Select your desired resolution from the dropdown menu and click Apply.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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