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Enable Fractional Scaling in Ubuntu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Richard
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Richard
Oct 3, 2022 Updated Aug 13, 2026 2 min read
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Fractional scaling in Ubuntu lets you set your screen display size to intermediate steps like 125% or 150% instead of locking you into basic 100% or 200% jumps. High-resolution screens often make text and buttons look too tiny or too huge at standard settings, but fractional scaling fixes that exact problem.

Ubuntu hides this display adjustment by default, but you can turn it on with a quick command in your terminal. Once you switch it on, you gain precise control over how big everything looks on your desktop.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Settings , navigate to Displays, and toggle the Fractional Scaling switch to On. This unlocks additional scaling options like 125% and 150% for your display.

How to turn on or off fractional scaling in Ubuntu Linux

System Settings controls whether fractional scaling remains active on your desktop. This feature allows for custom screen element sizes between the standard 100% and 200% for better control over display appearance. Following these steps will help you adjust your fractional scaling preferences.

Here’s how to enable it.

Ubuntu Linux keeps most settings in one place. System configurations, user management, and updates all live within the System Settings panel.

To open System Settings, go to the Activities overview and type ‘Settings.’

Opening the Ubuntu Activities overview to search for system settings
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click the System menu in the top-right corner of your desktop.

On the System menu, select Settings, as shown below.

Selecting Settings from the Ubuntu system menu top bar
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

In the Settings app, click the Displays tile.

Clicking the Displays tile within the Ubuntu Settings application
ubuntu linux displays tile settings

In the System Settings -> Displays panel, locate the Fractional Scaling switch under your monitor. Toggle it to 'On' to enable. To disable, flip it back to 'Off'.

To disable, toggle back to the Off position.

Toggle switch for enabling fractional scaling in Ubuntu display settings
ubuntu linux fractional scaling on or off

With Fractional scaling enabled, additional scaling values become available: 125%, 150%, and 175%.

That completes the process, and the Settings app can now close.

Conclusion:

  • Fractional scaling in Ubuntu Linux allows for more precise control over the display scaling options, particularly beneficial for devices with high-resolution displays.
  • Enabling fractional scaling provides additional scaling values such as 125%, 150%, and 175%, offering more flexibility in customizing the display size.
  • The System Settings panel in Ubuntu Linux provides a straightforward method for toggling fractional scaling on or off, catering to individual preferences and display requirements.
  • This enhanced scaling functionality enhances the overall user experience on Ubuntu, ensuring a more tailored and visually optimized display.

How do I display scale between 100 and 200 in Ubuntu?

Using fractional scaling on Ubuntu 20.04 and newer versions requires opening Display settings and locating the Fractional Scaling switch. Toggling the switch turns the feature on or off. Enabling fractional scaling reveals new scaling factors between 100% and 200%.

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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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