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How to Fix MacBook Screen Flickering

MacBook users have reported a variety of screen-related issues, but one of the most frustrating problems is screen flickering. If you’ve been experiencing this issue—whether it’s sudden flashes, an unstable display, or constant flickering—there are a few potential causes and solutions to explore. Screen flickering can be caused by a number of things, including software bugs, hardware malfunctions, or outdated display drivers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective troubleshooting steps to help you resolve screen flickering on your MacBook. Let's jump right into it.
MacBook Screen Flickering

Why Does My MacBook Screen Flicker?

Before diving into solutions, it's important to understand what might be causing the flickering. Here are the main reasons your MacBook screen may flicker:

    • Outdated macOS or Drivers: Running an outdated macOS version or video drivers can lead to compatibility issues, causing the screen to flicker.

    • Graphics Card or GPU Issues: MacBooks with a dedicated graphics card might experience flickering if there's a problem with the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

    • Display Cable Problems: In some cases, the physical connection between your screen and the motherboard can cause flickering if the cable is loose or damaged.

    • External Display Issues: If you’re using your MacBook with an external monitor, the problem could stem from the external display or the cable connection.

    1. System Preferences and Settings: Sometimes, specific settings related to the display refresh rate, display scaling, or night shift mode can cause flickering.

Now that we know the potential causes, let’s go over how to fix the issue step by step.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix MacBook Screen Flickering

1. Update macOS and Graphics Drivers

Outdated system software can cause issues with the graphics drivers, which could lead to flickering. Ensuring that your macOS and drivers are up-to-date is the first step in fixing screen flickering.

How to update macOS:

  1. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner.

  2. Select System Preferences > Software Update.

  3. If an update is available, click Update Now.

Insight: Keeping your system and software up to date can solve a wide range of bugs, including display-related problems.

Screenshot suggestion:
Show the Software Update page in System Preferences, with an update ready to be installed.

2. Check Display Settings

Sometimes, specific display settings like refresh rate or resolution can cause the screen to flicker. By adjusting these settings, you may be able to eliminate the flickering.

Steps to adjust display settings:

  1. Go to System Preferences > Displays.

  2. Select the Display tab.

  3. Try adjusting the Resolution to Default for Display or manually select a lower resolution.

    1. If available, check for Refresh Rate settings and try switching to another rate.

Insight: Flickering can occur if the display refresh rate is incompatible with your MacBook’s hardware or the monitor you’re connected to.

3. Reset NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory)

NVRAM stores specific settings like screen resolution, display settings, and audio preferences. Resetting the NVRAM can resolve flickering caused by corrupted settings.

How to reset NVRAM:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.

    • Press the power button, then immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R.

  3. Hold these keys for about 20 seconds, then release.

  4. Your MacBook will restart.

Insight: Resetting NVRAM is an easy step that can solve many display-related issues without affecting your data.

4. Try Safe Mode

Booting your MacBook into Safe Mode can help identify if the issue is related to a third-party application or a system extension.

Steps to boot into Safe Mode:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.

  2. Press the power button, and immediately press and hold the Shift key until the Apple logo appears.

  3. Release the Shift key and log in.

Insight: In Safe Mode, macOS disables third-party extensions and software, making it easier to pinpoint whether the problem is caused by a third-party app.

5. Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)

The SMC controls low-level functions on your Mac, including display settings and power management. Resetting the SMC can often solve issues with flickering or other display anomalies.

Steps to reset the SMC:

For MacBooks with a T2 chip:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.

  2. Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds, then release.

  3. Press the Power button again to turn it back on.

For older MacBooks:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.

  2. Press and hold Shift + Control + Option (on the left side) and the Power button for 10 seconds.

  3. Release all keys and turn on your MacBook.

Insight: Resetting the SMC is a useful step to take if other troubleshooting steps haven’t fixed the flickering issue.

6. Check for External Display Issues

If you’re using an external display, the issue may lie with the display itself, the cables, or the connection port.

Steps:

  • Disconnect any external displays or monitors.

  • If you’re using adapters or HDMI cables, make sure they are in good condition and properly connected.

  • Try using a different cable or port to rule out any connection issues.

Example Error Message:
If you see "No signal detected" on an external monitor, there may be a cable or port issue rather than a flickering screen.

7. Run Apple Diagnostics

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it’s worth running Apple Diagnostics to check for hardware issues related to your MacBook’s graphics card or display.

Steps to run Apple Diagnostics:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.

  2. Press the power button and immediately hold down the D key.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to run the diagnostics.

Insight: Apple Diagnostics will detect any hardware problems with your display and provide error codes that can guide further actions.

FAQs About MacBook Screen Flickering

Q1: Why is my MacBook screen flickering when I open apps?

This could be due to high CPU usage caused by the app, or the app might be incompatible with your macOS version. Try closing unnecessary apps and updating macOS to resolve the issue.

Q2: Can screen flickering damage my MacBook?

While flickering itself doesn't usually cause damage, it can indicate deeper hardware or software issues. If unresolved, persistent problems with the GPU or other components could lead to more serious malfunctions over time.

Q3: How do I know if the problem is with my MacBook or an external display?

Disconnect any external displays and check if the flickering persists on your MacBook's built-in screen. If the flickering stops, the issue is likely with the external display or its connection.

Q4: Is there a way to stop the screen flickering while using full-screen mode?

Flickering in full-screen mode could be caused by macOS settings or the app you’re using. Try changing your display settings or updating the app to see if that resolves the issue.

Additional Resources and Community Links

Conclusion

MacBook screen flickering can be a nuisance, but it’s a problem that can typically be solved with a few troubleshooting steps. By following the guide above, from checking your macOS and display settings to resetting NVRAM or the SMC, you can resolve most flickering issues. If these solutions don't work, the problem might be hardware-related, in which case contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store may be necessary.

Got any more questions or experiencing a different type of screen issue? Feel free to ask below!

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