How to Change Screen Brightness in Ubuntu Linux
Changing screen brightness in Ubuntu Linux adjusts how bright your display is, making it easier to see your screen in different light or to save battery power.
You can quickly lower or raise your screen’s brightness in Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and later versions using a simple slider found in the top-right corner of your screen.
Many laptops also have special keys, usually with sun icons, that let you change brightness with just one press.
Adjust screen brightness in Ubuntu by clicking the top-right status area and using the slider, or by going to Settings, then Power, and adjusting the Screen brightness slider. Many laptops also allow brightness adjustments via dedicated function keys.
How to adjust the screen brightness in Ubuntu Linux
You can easily adjust screen brightness in Ubuntu Linux using the quick settings menu found in the top-right corner of your screen. This method lets you manually change your display’s light level quickly and is the most straightforward way to get your screen looking just right.
Method 1: Using the Quick Settings Menu
- Click the status area in the top-right corner of your screen. This is where your Wi-Fi, battery, and volume icons live.
ubuntu system menu button on top bar - Look for the brightness slider in the menu that pops up.
- Drag the slider left or right to change the light level.
ubuntu linux screen brightness slider
Method 2: Using the Settings App
- Open your app drawer and click on Settings.
- In the left sidebar, click on the Power tab.
ubuntu linux screen brighness slider in settings - Under the Screen section, move the Screen brightness slider to your preferred level.
General
If you prefer using the command line, you can also adjust screen brightness in Ubuntu Linux with special tools or by changing system files. This advanced method is handy for automating tasks or when you can’t use the graphical interface. Keep in mind that brightness control can depend on your display server and graphics drivers.
Note on compatibility: Brightness control depends on your display server (Wayland vs. X11) and your graphics drivers. If the sliders do not appear or do not work, ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Some older hardware may not support software-based brightness control, requiring you to use the monitor’s built-in hardware menu instead.
To gain full manual control over screen brightness, you may need to disable the automatic brightness setting. This setting, often found in the display preferences, uses ambient light sensors to adjust screen brightness automatically. Disabling automatic brightness allows you to set the brightness level yourself, ensuring your preferred screen visibility in all lighting conditions.
Adjusting your brightness helps you see better and keeps your device running smoothly. Follow these steps whenever your screen feels too bright or too dim.
How to control monitor brightness in Linux?
The Linux Situation The brightness keys on the keyboard only control the built-in laptop display. The external monitor? You're on your own. Open the OSD menu, navigate to brightness, nudge the value.
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Richard
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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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