HDR Not Working After Windows Update? 5 Easy Fixes

Windows 11 » Repair

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Repair

3 min. read

Updated on August 29, 2025

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If HDR stopped working after a recent Windows update, you are not alone. Many users report issues such as washed-out colors, HDR not turning on, or Auto HDR refusing to enable. Fortunately, you can fix these problems with a few quick adjustments.

How to fix HDR not working after Windows update?

How to fix HDR not working after Windows update?

1. Check HDR settings in Windows

Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Display.
Select your HDR-supported monitor.
Make sure Use HDR and Auto HDR are toggled on.
Restart your PC to apply the changes.

If Auto HDR is still missing, this detailed guide on turning on Auto HDR in Windows 11 can help. If you want a complete breakdown specific to the game, check out this step-by-step guide on enabling HDR in Stalker 2.

2. Update or roll back display drivers

Open Device Manager and expand Display adapters.
Right-click your GPU and choose Update driver.
If HDR worked before the update, try Roll back driver instead.
Restart your system and test HDR again.

If you are running an Nvidia RTX GPU, you can also follow this step-by-step guide on how to enable HDR on RTX in Windows 11 for a more targeted solution.

3. Calibrate HDR display

Go to Settings > System > Display > HDR.
Click Calibrate your display for HDR video.
Follow the on-screen wizard to fix brightness and color balance.

If you still notice washed-out colors, follow this step-by-step guide to fix washed-out HDR in Windows.

4. Adjust GPU control panel settings

For NVIDIA, open the NVIDIA Control Panel, set output color format to RGB, and adjust dynamic range to Full.
For AMD, use the Radeon Software to tweak display color depth and pixel format.
For Intel, use the Graphics Command Center and ensure HDR output is enabled.

5. Run Windows troubleshooter

Press Win + I and go to System > Troubleshoot.
Select Other troubleshooter.
Run the Video Playback troubleshooter.
Apply recommended fixes.

FAQs

Why did HDR stop working after a Windows update?

Updates may reset your display or GPU settings, causing HDR features to turn off or malfunction.

Can Auto HDR cause display issues?

Yes, Auto HDR may sometimes apply incorrect tone mapping. Learn how to fix Auto HDR not working in Windows 11.

Do I need a special monitor for HDR?

Yes, HDR only works on displays certified for HDR10 or higher.

Conclusion

HDR can greatly improve visuals when properly configured, but it sometimes requires fine-tuning. If you’re mainly using HDR for gaming, be sure to check our guide on is HDR good for gaming to learn more about how it impacts your experience.

More about the topics: HDR, Windows 11 Fix

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He's a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology. Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he's one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.