Input Timing Not Supported by Monitor? Fix It

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

If your monitor displays “Input Timing Not Supported,” it means the monitor cannot display the current resolution or refresh rate sent by your computer. The fix is to lower the resolution or refresh rate to a supported value, or to update the graphics driver. This article explains why the error appears and how to resolve it on Windows, macOS, and via the monitor’s own settings.

What Does “Input Timing Not Supported” Mean?

Every monitor has a native resolution (e.g., 1920×1080) and a maximum refresh rate (e.g., 60 Hz, 144 Hz). The graphics card sends a signal with a specific resolution and refresh rate, called the “timing.” If that timing falls outside the monitor’s supported range, the monitor cannot display it and shows an error message instead of a picture. This often happens after a driver update, a game changes the resolution, or you connect a new monitor with different specifications.

Why Does This Happen?

Resolution too high: The monitor’s maximum resolution is lower than what the computer is sending (e.g., sending 4K to a 1080p monitor).
Refresh rate too high: The monitor is set to 144 Hz but only supports 60 Hz.
Wrong cable or port: HDMI 1.4 may not support 4K at 60 Hz, while DisplayPort 1.2 does. Using an adapter can also limit bandwidth.
Corrupted graphics driver: After a Windows update or driver crash, the driver may output an unsupported timing.
Monitor EDID misread: The monitor’s Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) tells the computer its capabilities. If the EDID is corrupted or the cable is faulty, the computer may not read it correctly.

How to Fix It on Windows

If you see the error and cannot see your desktop, you can force a safe resolution using Windows Recovery Environment or by using a lower resolution from the login screen.

Restart in Safe Mode: Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + Restart) to enter Safe Mode. Safe Mode uses a basic display driver at 800×600, which almost any monitor supports. Once in Safe Mode, go to Device Manager and uninstall the graphics driver, then restart normally.
Use a different display: Connect a TV or another monitor that you know works, then lower the resolution and refresh rate in Settings > System > Display > Advanced display settings.
Change refresh rate: Right-click on the desktop, select Display settings, scroll to Advanced display, and choose a lower refresh rate (e.g., 60 Hz).
Update the graphics driver: Use the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) or Windows Update to install the latest driver.

How to Fix It on macOS

On a Mac, the error usually appears when connecting an external monitor with an unsupported resolution or refresh rate.

Disconnect the monitor and reconnect it while holding the Option key. This may force the Mac to re-detect the display.
Go to System Settings > Displays and select “Default for display” instead of “Scaled.”
If you are using a USB-C to HDMI adapter, try a different adapter or a direct cable, as some adapters do not support high refresh rates.
Reset the NVRAM (on Intel Macs) by restarting and holding Option+Command+P+R for 20 seconds. On Apple Silicon, restart normally.

What to Do If the Monitor Has Its Own Menu

Some monitors have an on-screen display (OSD) menu that lets you change the input source or reset to factory defaults. Look for a button labeled “Menu” or “OSD” on the monitor. Navigate to “Reset” or “Factory Reset.” This clears any custom settings that might be causing the issue. Also, check that the correct input source is selected (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, DisplayPort).

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

Mistake: Assuming the cable is fine just because it fits. Some HDMI cables are “High Speed” and some are “Ultra High Speed.” For 4K at 60 Hz, you need a cable that supports HDMI 2.0 or later. DisplayPort cables also have version differences.
Mistake: Setting the refresh rate higher than the monitor supports. Always check the monitor’s specifications. A 60 Hz monitor will show the error if you set 120 Hz.
Misconception: The monitor is broken. The error is a safety feature, not a failure. The monitor refuses to display an out-of-range signal to protect its hardware.
Misconception: You need to buy a new monitor. In most cases, the fix is a software setting change or a driver update.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my monitor say “Input Timing Not Supported” when I play a game?

Games often change the resolution and refresh rate to match the game’s settings. If the game is set to a resolution or refresh rate your monitor does not support, the monitor will show the error. Exit the game (press Alt+F4) and lower the in-game graphics settings, or set the game to “Windowed” mode.

Can a faulty cable cause this error?

Yes. A damaged or low-quality cable can cause the monitor to misread the EDID, leading to an unsupported timing error. Try a different cable, preferably a shorter one, and make sure it is securely connected.

How do I know what resolution and refresh rate my monitor supports?

Check the monitor’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website. You can also look at the monitor’s OSD menu—many monitors list the current input timing there. On Windows, you can see supported modes in the graphics driver control panel (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings).

Will resetting my monitor to factory defaults fix the problem?

It can, if the issue is caused by a custom setting like an overclocked refresh rate or a wrong aspect ratio. Factory reset returns the monitor to its default supported timings.

Is it safe to force a resolution using custom settings?

No. Forcing a resolution or refresh rate outside the monitor’s supported range can damage the monitor or cause it to malfunction. Always stay within the manufacturer’s specifications.

What if I still see the error after trying everything?

If the error persists, the monitor’s EDID chip may be corrupted, or the monitor itself may be failing. Try connecting the monitor to another computer. If it works there, the issue is with your graphics card or driver. If it does not work on any computer, the monitor may need service.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.