Windows 11: How to Enable Auto HDR

If you want to automatically convert games from SDR to HDR on Windows 11, you can enable the Auto HDR option. Auto HDR lets you unlock brighter colors when playing your favorite games. Remember that you need a compatible HDR display to use this technology and enjoy a more immersive gaming experience.

Check if Your Display Supports HDR

To enable Auto HDR, you need a display that supports HDR. Here’s how to check your display’s HDR compatibility:

1. Navigate to Settings, and select System.
2. Then go to Display, and click on Advanced display.
3. Go to Color Space and check the details.
4. If it says SDR (Standard Dynamic Range), this means your display doesn’t support HDR.

Well, if your display is not HDR-compatible, you can buy a new one. For more information on the best HDR monitors, check out the buying guides below:

• Best HDR Monitors
• Best Budget HDR Monitors (Best quality-price ratio)
• Best HDR TVs

If your display supports HDR, follow the steps below to enable this feature on your Windows 11 computer.

Steps to Enable HDR on Windows 11

1. Click on the Start icon and go to Settings.
2. Then select System.
3. Click on Display.
4. Click on HDR under Brightness & color.
5. Toggle on Use HDR and Auto HDR.

Play Streaming HDR Videos

Even if your display’s capabilities don’t allow you to use HDR directly, you may still be able to play streaming HDR content. To do that, toggle on Play Streaming HDR video.

Don’t forget to calibrate your display for HDR video and allow streaming HDR content on battery. Otherwise, the option won’t work. But, your computer will continue to optimize settings for battery life.

However, keep in mind that enabling Auto HDR doesn’t necessarily mean better graphics. However, some games may look wonky or jagged with this option on. If Auto HDR negatively impacts graphics quality, disable the feature and play your favorite games on standard settings.

Conclusion

To enable Auto HDR on Windows 11, go to Display Settings, and toggle on Auto HDR under the Brightness & color section.  Keep in mind that you need an HDR-compatible display to enable this feature.

Have you enabled Auto HDR on your Windows 11 computer? Are you happy with the graphics quality? Share your thoughts in the comments below.