This article explains how to adjust the screen timeout settings in Windows 11 to turn off the display after a specified duration.
By default, Windows 11 turns off the screen after 5 minutes on battery and 15 minutes when plugged in.
You don’t have to accept these default settings. If Windows 11 is turning off your screen too quickly, you can change it. You can extend the time before it turns off. Or you can prevent it from turning off automatically at all. This guide will show you how.
Why Adjust Screen Timeout?
Screen timeout exists for security and power-saving reasons. When your screen turns off, you need to move the mouse, touch the screen, or press a key to wake it up. Windows will resume from where it left off. You’ll need to log back in to your session. This protects your computer when you step away.
How to Change Windows 11 Screen Timeout
If the default timeout period is too short for you, follow these simple steps to change it.
Step 1: Open System Settings
Windows 11 keeps all its main settings in one place called System Settings. You can get there two ways:
- Press Windows key + I on your keyboard
- Click Start and then click Settings
See the image below:
You can also use the search box on the taskbar. Type “Settings” and open it from there.
Step 2: Go to Power Settings
Once Settings opens, look for System on the left side. Click it. Then on the right side, find and click Power & battery. See the image below:
Step 3: Adjust Your Screen Timeout
In the Power & battery settings, find the section labeled Screen and Sleep. Click to expand it. You’ll see options to change when the screen turns off. You can set different times for battery power and when plugged in. See the image below:
Choose how long you want the screen to stay on before it turns off. The settings take effect right away. Close the Settings window and you’re done.
In some cases, Windows may ask you to restart your computer before the new settings fully apply.
If These Steps Don’t Work
If the steps above don’t work for you, try this alternative method. It works on both Windows 10 and 11. It also works even if your computer is managed by a company:
How to keep Windows awake with PowerToys
Summary
Adjusting your screen timeout in Windows 11 is easy and takes just a few clicks. Open Settings, go to Power & battery, and expand Screen and Sleep. Change the timeout values to what you prefer. The changes happen right away. You now have control over when your screen turns off. For more control, you can also explore tools like PowerToys. Check your settings regularly to keep your computer running the way you want it.
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