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

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 2, 2022 Updated Jul 14, 2026 2 min read
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Changing your Ubuntu display resolution adjusts the number of pixels shown on your screen. This impacts how much content you see and how sharp everything looks, much like zooming in or out on a photo.

For instance, a high resolution like 1920×1080 shows more information at once and makes text crisp. A lower one, perhaps 1024×768, makes things bigger and easier to read but uses up screen space faster.

Ubuntu usually figures out the best resolution for your monitor automatically. However, you can easily change this setting yourself within the system’s Display Settings to suit your preference.

⚡ 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

Changing your display resolution in Ubuntu Linux is done using the System Settings. This is where Ubuntu keeps most of its options, so adjusting your screen’s resolution is straightforward and doesn’t require expert knowledge. Ubuntu Linux keeps most of its settings in one handy place, making it easy to change your screen’s resolution.

The Ubuntu Linux System Settings panel organizes most of the operating system’s configurations in one accessible location. 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

You can have different settings on each display if multiple displays are not mirrored. 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
⚠️Warning
If you are happy with the new settings, click Keep Changes.

That should do it! You can now close the Settings app.

Changing your display resolution in Ubuntu can improve your desktop’s appearance and how it functions. For example, lowering the resolution from 1920×1080 to 1280×720 makes text and icons larger, which can be helpful if you find them too small on your screen.

  • 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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