Adjusting Refresh rate on second monitor

I have a second monitor thats usually set to 60 Hertz but after the latest update it keeps defaulting to 30 Hertz. Also, It doesn't even give me the option to change the refresh rate anymore unless I restart the computer. This started happening after the latest OS update. Please help.

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 12.1

Posted on Jan 24, 2022 7:52 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 28, 2022 8:15 AM

Thanks for getting back to us about your display refresh rate, Jimmy,


Since the refresh rate settings were working as expected in safe mode, that could indicate there are login items interfering with the refresh rate. If you have not already, follow the steps below from How to use safe mode on your Mac on what to do:


"If the issue doesn't continue in safe mode


If the issue doesn't continue while in safe mode, leave safe mode by restarting your Mac normally. Then test for the issue again. The issue might be resolved.


If the issue returns after leaving safe mode, startup items are probably at fault. Apps can install such items in numerous places, and they aren't always easy to find or recognize. For that reason, you should first make sure that you've installed any available updates for your Apple software and third-party apps.


If updating your software doesn't help, try any of these solutions:


  • Test your login items.
  • To learn whether software in your user account is causing the issue, set up a new user account, then log in to it and try to reproduce the issue in that account.
  • Unplug all accessories from your Mac, including printers, drives, USB hubs, and other nonessential devices. You could have an issue with one or more of those devices or their cables.
  • Reinstall macOS."


If you have followed those steps and still are experiencing an issue with the refresh rate settings, please get in touch with Apple Support directly: Get Support.


Enjoy your weekend!

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 28, 2022 8:15 AM in response to Jimmy_Bones

Thanks for getting back to us about your display refresh rate, Jimmy,


Since the refresh rate settings were working as expected in safe mode, that could indicate there are login items interfering with the refresh rate. If you have not already, follow the steps below from How to use safe mode on your Mac on what to do:


"If the issue doesn't continue in safe mode


If the issue doesn't continue while in safe mode, leave safe mode by restarting your Mac normally. Then test for the issue again. The issue might be resolved.


If the issue returns after leaving safe mode, startup items are probably at fault. Apps can install such items in numerous places, and they aren't always easy to find or recognize. For that reason, you should first make sure that you've installed any available updates for your Apple software and third-party apps.


If updating your software doesn't help, try any of these solutions:


  • Test your login items.
  • To learn whether software in your user account is causing the issue, set up a new user account, then log in to it and try to reproduce the issue in that account.
  • Unplug all accessories from your Mac, including printers, drives, USB hubs, and other nonessential devices. You could have an issue with one or more of those devices or their cables.
  • Reinstall macOS."


If you have followed those steps and still are experiencing an issue with the refresh rate settings, please get in touch with Apple Support directly: Get Support.


Enjoy your weekend!

Jan 25, 2022 8:38 AM in response to Jimmy_Bones

Hi there, Jimmy,


Thanks for visiting the Apple Support Communities. If we understand, the refresh rate for your external display keeps reverting from 60 Hertz to 30 Hertz on its own. We are happy to help!


Based on everything you've told us, we'd suggest seeing if the issue can be duplicated while in safe mode: How to use safe mode on your Mac, and a new user account: Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac - Apple Support


Don't hesitate to respond back if you still need help. If you do, please let us know what display you are using with your MacBook Pro.


Cheers!

Jan 28, 2022 6:01 AM in response to Lindsay_B.

Thanks for your reply. The problem did not occur when I restarted in Safe Mode. However, in regular mode after waking up from sleep it still reverts back to 30 Hertz. It doesn't even show the option to switch back to 60 Hertz. The option somehow disappears until I restart it again.


The display im using is the 24inch LG Ultrafine I purchased from the Apple Website.


Thanks!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Adjusting Refresh rate on second monitor

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.