How To Change Screen Timeout In Windows 10
Changing the screen timeout in Windows 10 is super easy and helps save battery life or keep your screen from going dark too quickly. You just need to navigate to the Settings menu, find the Display options, and adjust the timeout settings to your preference. In just a few steps, you’ll have your screen set up just the way you like it.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Change Screen Timeout In Windows 10
Changing the screen timeout in Windows 10 ensures your screen stays active for as long as you need or saves power by turning off when not in use. Follow these steps to adjust the screen timeout on your Windows 10 device.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
First, click on the Start button and then click on the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
The Settings menu is your control center for changing system preferences. You can also access it by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Go to System Settings
Next, click on "System" from the Settings menu to access system-related settings.
In the System menu, you can change various settings related to display, notifications, power, and more. For screen timeout, we’re focusing on Display settings.
Step 3: Select Display
Under the System settings, click on "Display" to view display options.
This is where you can adjust brightness, change resolution, and, of course, set your screen timeout preferences.
Step 4: Scroll Down to Power & Sleep
Scroll down until you find the “Power & sleep” option on the left sidebar and click on it.
The Power & Sleep settings allow you to manage when your screen should turn off both when plugged in and on battery power.
Step 5: Adjust Screen Timeout Settings
Under the Screen section, adjust the drop-down menus for "On battery power, turn off after" and "When plugged in, turn off after" to your desired time settings.
These settings let you determine how long the screen should stay on when your device is running on battery power or when it’s plugged in.
Step 6: Save and Exit
After selecting your preferred timeout settings, close the Settings window. Your changes are automatically saved.
There’s no need for a save button. Your new screen timeout settings will take effect immediately.
After you complete this action, your screen will stay on for the amount of time you specified. If you set a longer timeout, expect your screen to remain active longer before turning off. Conversely, a shorter timeout helps conserve battery life by turning off the display sooner.
Tips for Changing Screen Timeout In Windows 10
- Always consider your battery life when setting screen timeout, especially if you frequently use your device on battery power.
- If you often watch videos or presentations, you might want a longer timeout to avoid interruptions.
- For better security, shorter screen timeouts ensure your device doesn’t stay on unattended for long periods.
- You can quickly change these settings anytime, so don’t worry about getting it perfect the first time.
- If you use your device in different environments (home, work, travel), adjust the settings to suit your current needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Screen Timeout In Windows 10
How do I access the Settings menu quickly?
Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings menu instantly.
Can I set different timeouts for battery and plugged-in modes?
Yes, you can set different screen timeouts for when your device is on battery power and when it’s plugged in.
Will changing the screen timeout affect my power usage?
Yes, a shorter screen timeout will save more power, while a longer timeout will use more power.
Can I change my screen timeout settings back to default?
Yes, you can go back to the Power & sleep settings and select the default options from the drop-down menus.
Does screen timeout affect my computer’s performance?
No, screen timeout settings only affect when the display turns off and does not impact overall performance.
Summary
- Open the Settings Menu.
- Go to System Settings.
- Select Display.
- Scroll Down to Power & Sleep.
- Adjust Screen Timeout Settings.
- Save and Exit.
Conclusion
Changing the screen timeout in Windows 10 is a straightforward task that can make a big difference in your device’s usability and power management. Whether you want to keep your screen on longer for convenience or turn it off sooner to save battery, you have complete control over these settings. If you’re working on a project, watching a movie, or just stepping away from your device for a bit, adjusting the screen timeout can make your experience much more pleasant.
So, go ahead and tweak the settings to find the perfect balance for your needs. It’s a small adjustment, but it can have a significant impact on your daily use. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to explore more tips and tricks to optimize your Windows 10 experience. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.