Reduce Computer Monitor Eye Strain in 2 Easy Steps
Many readers have thanked me for 2 simple tips which have helped them reduce monitor induced eye strain…. so here they are again.
In fact I have applied these 2 simple fixes on several computers and they have reported a definite reduction of computer vision syndrome and eye strain. You may also try these 2 simple fixes.
Turn on ClearType in Microsoft Windows XP - ClearType delivers improved font display quality over traditional forms of font smoothing or anti-aliasing. It improves readability on color LCD displays with a digital interface, such as those in laptops and high-quality flat panel displays. Readability on CRT monitors can also be improved. You see better and see clearer with reduced eyestrain.
Increase your Monitor Refresh Rate - The basic thing is that monitors flicker. Many users are used to the computer monitor flicker, or your eyes are not sensitive enough to detect it, but the flicker is there. And till it flickers, it will irritate your eyes and cause eye strain. Higher refresh rates are less likely to cause eyestrain. See what is the optimal refresh rate for your monitor and reduce flicker induced eyestrain and headache.
Ever since I have optimized my refresh rate and switched to ClearType, I can assure you would want to do the same!
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Comments
1. Martin Lortie | 17/01/06 #
I just want to say that ClearType only works win WinXP, we have Win2000 at the office so we are out of luck.
And that refresh rates on LCD monitor doesn’t apply.
2. Anonymous | 17/01/06 #
Definitely useful
3. Nystul | 17/01/06 #
definitely very useful!
4. Anonymous | 17/01/06 #
These tips really ought to come with a caveat. The first tip really only applies to LCDs. CRTs look fuzzy with ClearType turned on.
The second tip only applies to CRTs. LCDs do not flicker and should always be set to a 60 Hz refresh rate.
5. -SPK | 18/01/06 #
did you get this from lifehacker or did they get this from you?
6. Quick Online Tips | 18/01/06 #
Firstly, I use a CRT monitor and Cleartype works really well for me at 1024×768 resolution which I use. So I would not say it works for LCD monitors only.
Spk, these were some older posts which I have linked again by reader demand. I am glad and thankful that Lifehacker picked it up and these tips are used by more users.
7. Anonymous | 13/07/06 #
Unbelievable that there are still people out there who don’t know what the Refresh Rate is… it’s one of the first things I tell people who get their first computer
8. alec | 14/08/06 #
what about on apple computers or laptops?
9. zafar | 26/09/06 #
Refresh Rate needs to be above 70Hz. Sometimes when you go for higher resolution, monitor might not support 70+ refresh rate, so stick with lower resolution.
10. Rakesh | 16/01/07 #
ur site gave me a lot of information about computer
thanking u
rakesh
11. HaKi | 11/05/07 #
3. use black background colors
12. os | 20/07/07 #
arrrggggggggggghhhh mu eyes!
Thanks.
13. AH | 17/11/07 #
You say that LCDs don’t flicker, but I am sitting here watching my screen wiggle around. I have a new 22″ Samsung and it’s burning my eyes. Any tips? I have the refresh rate at 75.
Thank you!
14. syed sharfuddin | 28/12/07 #
hello, sir
im syed sharfuddin from india
sir i want dead monitors from ur company please reply me soon
thanking you
15. kurye | 26/02/08 #
this subject is very important for us . thank for subject. please write back soon
16. Nikhil Vyas | 18/03/08 #
Great Dude…..cool trick…..
17. Ways to Reduce Computer Monitor Eye Strain at Vincent Chow | 24/09/06
18. Reduce Computer Monitor Eye Strain in 2 Easy Steps « Kvenu’s Weblog | 24/10/07
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