Display basics

What is HDR in gaming?

High dynamic range (HDR) can represent a wider range of brightness and color than standard dynamic range when the game, display and system support it.

QUICK EXPLANATION

Check the complete HDR display path

HDR results vary with the monitor's capabilities, Windows configuration, connection and game implementation. An HDR toggle alone does not guarantee a better-looking image.

Incorrectly configured HDR can make desktop or game content look washed out or too dim.

Result: The display's supported HDR modes and the game's calibration screen should agree with the selected output mode.

How to check it

Check the monitor manual, Windows display settings and in-game HDR calibration. Adjust one setting at a time and compare familiar content.

Check: Confirm highlights and dark detail remain visible and that SDR content still looks acceptable when HDR is off.

Sources & page details

Microsoft: HDR settings in Windows ↗

Reviewed 2026-09-26

These are general explanations; available features and results vary by game, graphics hardware, driver and display.