How to Change Screen Timeout Setting in Windows 11

Adjusting the screen timeout setting in Windows 11 can help conserve battery life or keep your screen on for longer periods while you're working. This guide will walk you through the steps to change the screen timeout settings using the Settings app and Control Panel.

Introduction

The screen timeout setting determines how long your screen stays on when your PC is inactive. Adjusting this setting can help balance between battery conservation and convenience. Follow these steps to change the screen timeout setting on your Windows 11 PC.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Click on the Settings icon (gear icon). Alternatively, press Win + I to open the Settings app directly.

Step 2: Navigate to Power & Battery Settings

1. In the Settings app, click on System in the left-hand sidebar.
2. Click on Power & battery in the System menu.

Step 3: Change Screen Timeout Settings

1. Under the Power section, find the Screen and sleep settings.
2. Click on the dropdown menus next to On battery power, turn off my screen after and When plugged in, turn off my screen after.
3. Choose your preferred timeout duration from the dropdown options.

Additional Options

• Never: If you want the screen to stay on indefinitely, you can select Never from the dropdown options.

Method 2: Using Control Panel

Step 1: Open Control Panel

1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Type "Control Panel" in the search bar and select the Control Panel app from the search results.

Step 2: Navigate to Power Options

1. In the Control Panel, set the View by option to Large icons or Small icons.
2. Click on Power Options.

Step 3: Change Plan Settings

1. Find the power plan you are currently using and click on Change plan settings next to it.

Step 4: Adjust Screen Timeout Settings

1. In the Edit Plan Settings window, find the Turn off the display settings.
2. Set the On battery and Plugged in options to your preferred timeout duration.
3. Click Save changes to apply the new settings.

Additional Tips

• Balanced Plan: Ensure you adjust the screen timeout settings for both battery and plugged-in modes if you are using the Balanced power plan.
• High Performance: The High Performance power plan may have different default settings, so check and adjust as needed.

Conclusion

You have successfully learned how to change the screen timeout setting on your Windows 11 PC using both the Settings app and Control Panel. By adjusting the screen timeout duration, you can optimize your PC for better battery life or longer screen visibility based on your needs. Regularly review and adjust these settings to match your usage patterns and preferences.