Surface Laptop 3 Screen Flickering - Causes And Fixes 2024!

The Surface Laptop 3 is widely appreciated for its sleek design and powerful features, but some users have reported a recurring issue: screen flickering.

Surface Laptop 3 screen flickering is often caused by outdated or incompatible display drivers. Set the display to 60Hz, update or uninstall drivers, or restart your device to fix it. These steps usually resolve flickering issues quickly.

In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of screen flickering on Surface Laptop 3 and offer practical solutions to resolve the issue.

Table of Contents

Understanding Screen Flickering on Surface Laptop 3

Screen flickering can appear in various forms, such as random flashes, distorted images, or even horizontal lines that obscure the screen.

The underlying cause may vary, ranging from hardware issues to software glitches. Here are the primary reasons why your Surface Laptop 3 might be experiencing screen flickering:

1. Graphics Driver Issues

One of the most frequent causes of screen flickering is outdated or corrupted graphics drivers. The Surface Laptop 3 relies heavily on its graphics drivers for smooth display performance.

If these drivers become obsolete or malfunction, screen flickering can occur. In severe cases, the display may freeze or even go black.

2. Windows Update Conflicts

Microsoft regularly releases updates for Windows, and while these updates aim to improve performance and security, they can sometimes introduce compatibility issues, especially with display components.

If you’ve recently updated your Surface Laptop 3 and noticed flickering afterwards, a software conflict might be to blame.

3. Loose or Damaged Display Cable

Hardware issues, such as a loose or damaged display cable, can also cause flickering. The connection between the display and the motherboard might become unstable over time, leading to flickers or intermittent screen flashes. This type of issue often worsens when the laptop is moved or tilted.

4. Overheating

Surface laptops, like any electronic device, can overheat after prolonged use, especially during resource-heavy gaming or video editing tasks.

Excess heat can affect the laptop’s internal components, including the display, causing it to flicker intermittently.

5. Power Issues

Using a faulty charger or power outlet can cause flickering. Insufficient or fluctuating power supply might also prevent the display from functioning correctly. This issue is prevalent when using non-genuine chargers.

How to Fix Surface Laptop 3 Screen Flickering

Now that we understand the causes let’s explore practical solutions that can help you stop screen flickering and get your Surface Laptop 3 back to optimal performance.

1. Update Graphics Drivers

Since outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause, the first step to fixing flickering is to update your graphics drivers. Here’s how you can do it:

Press Win + X and choose Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters section and right-click on the graphics driver (typically Intel or AMD).
Select Update driver and follow the prompts to update it automatically.

If you recently updated your driver and the flickering started after that, you can try rolling back to a previous version. In the same Device Manager window, choose Properties, then the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver.

2. Check for Windows Updates

In some cases, Windows updates might fix bugs that contribute to screen flickering. Follow these steps to ensure your system is up to date:

Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
Go to Update & Security, then click Windows Update.
Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Make sure to install optional driver updates as well, as these may include fixes for display-related issues.

3. Perform a System Restore

If the flickering issue started after installing new software or updates, a system restore could roll back your Surface Laptop 3 to a previous state when everything was functioning correctly. Here’s how:

Press Win + S, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
Click on System Restore, choose a restore point before the flickering starts, and follow the on-screen instructions.

This will undo any recent system changes that may have caused the problem.

4. Check Hardware Connections

Loose or damaged display cables can lead to flickering, especially if the screen only flickers when moving the laptop.

Unfortunately, checking or repairing the internal hardware connections of a Surface Laptop 3 requires professional expertise. If you suspect a hardware issue, it’s best to contact Microsoft support or visit a certified repair centre.

5. Try a Force Restart

If the flickering is caused by temporary glitches, a force restart might resolve the issue. Hold the power button for about 20-30 seconds until the Surface logo appears, then release it. This will refresh the system and clear out any glitches.

6. Reset Your Surface Laptop

In more severe cases where updating drivers or restarting the system doesn’t fix the flickering, you may need to perform a factory reset. Keep in mind that this will erase all data on your laptop, so back up important files before proceeding:

Open Settings, navigate to Update & Security and select Recovery.
Under Reset this PC, choose Get Started and follow the prompts.

This process will restore your Surface Laptop 3 to its original factory settings, resolving any deeply embedded software issues.

Symptoms and Indicators of a Flickering Screen

Recognizing the symptoms of a flickering screen can help you diagnose the issue more effectively. Common signs include:

Random flickering or flashing of the display
Distorted or scrambled visuals
Horizontal or vertical lines across the screen
The screen goes blank intermittently
Unresponsive display.

Preventing Future Flickering Issues

While the fixes mentioned above should resolve most screen flickering problems, you can also take preventative steps to avoid similar issues in the future:

Keep drivers and software updated: Regularly check for system updates and driver patches to avoid compatibility issues.
Use official accessories: Use Microsoft-certified chargers and accessories to prevent power-related problems.
Monitor temperature: Avoid using the laptop in environments with high temperatures, and consider using a cooling pad during heavy tasks.
Handle carefully: Be mindful when transporting or moving your Surface Laptop 3 to prevent internal hardware damage.

Surface Laptop 3 Screen Flickering Windows 10

Screen flickering on Surface Laptop 3 in Windows 10 is often caused by outdated drivers or software bugs.

Updating the graphics driver or running Windows updates usually fixes this issue. Restarting the device or adjusting display settings can also help.

Surface Laptop 3 Screen Flickering Black Screen

If your Surface Laptop 3 flickers and goes to a black screen, it could be due to a hardware issue or a faulty driver.

To resolve the flickering, try reinstalling the graphics drivers, updating Windows, or performing a system restart.

Surface Pro 7 Screen Flickering Windows 11

Surface Pro 7 flickering in Windows 11 may be caused by driver incompatibility or software glitches. Updating Windows and graphics drivers often resolves the problem. Resetting the device or adjusting display settings can also help stop the flickering.

Surface Pro 9 Screen Flickering

Flickering on the Surface Pro 9 can be caused by hardware damage or outdated drivers. Start by updating the graphics drivers and Windows. If flickering continues, check for hardware issues or consult Microsoft support for further assistance.

Surface Laptop Screen Flickering Windows 11

Screen flickering on Surface Laptops running Windows 11 is commonly caused by driver issues or software bugs.

Reinstalling or updating your graphics drivers and keeping your Windows updated usually resolves this problem. Restarting the device can also be effective.

Surface Pro 4 Screen Flicker When Hot

The Surface Pro 4 often flickers when it overheats, a known design flaw. Avoid using the device under heavy workloads for extended periods to reduce this. Cooling the device or using a cooling pad can help prevent the issue.

FAQs

1. Why Is My Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 Screen Flickering?

Your Surface Laptop 3 may flicker due to outdated drivers, power issues, or screen damage. Updating drivers often helps.

2. Why Is My Laptop Screen Flickering?

Laptop screen flickering can be caused by driver conflicts, loose cables, or display hardware issues. Reinstalling graphics drivers can fix it.

3. Why Is My Surface Screen Flickering Black?

Driver errors, power issues, or screen hardware problems usually cause a black flickering screen on Surface devices.

4. How Do I Stop My Computer Monitor From Flickering?

To stop your monitor from flickering, update graphics drivers, check cables, adjust refresh rates, or restart your computer.

5. Why Is My Microsoft Screen Flickering?

Microsoft screen flickering often occurs due to outdated graphics drivers, system bugs, or hardware issues. Updating drivers usually solves it.

6. How To Fix Distorted Screen On Laptop?

You can fix a distorted laptop screen by updating the graphics driver, adjusting resolution settings, or checking for screen damage or loose connections.

7. How Do I Stop My Laptop Screen From Flickering Windows 11?

Stop flickering on Windows 11 by updating your graphics drivers, adjusting power settings, or restarting your laptop.

8. How To Reset A Surface Laptop?

You can reset your Surface Laptop by going to Settings, selecting Update & Security, then choosing Recovery, and following the on-screen instructions.

9. Can A Surface Pro Screen Be Repaired?

Yes, a Surface Pro screen can be repaired, but it’s recommended to have it done by a professional technician or Microsoft support.

10. Why Is My Tablet Screen Shaking?

Software glitches or hardware issues may cause a shaking tablet screen. Restarting or updating the tablet can help resolve it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Surface Laptop 3 screen flickering can result from outdated drivers, hardware issues, or power inconsistencies. Most flickering issues can be resolved by updating drivers, adjusting settings, or restarting your device. Professional support may be needed for persistent problems.