Issue switching between multi-monitor setup and single 4K TV on Windows 11 (black screen flickering, need reboot)

Understanding and Resolving Multi-Monitor Display Flickering on Windows 11 with HDMI and DisplayPort Setups

Introduction

Managing a multi-monitor setup can greatly enhance productivity and gaming experiences. However, users sometimes encounter technical issues that disrupt this seamless experience. A common problem involves display flickering, black screens, and system instability when switching between multiple monitors and large UHD displays. This article explores a typical configuration and provides insights into troubleshooting steps to resolve such issues effectively.

Scenario Overview

Consider a user with the following setup:

Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 5080
Monitors:
Two 1080p monitors, refresh rate 240Hz, connected via DisplayPort
Display:
One 4K UHD TV, refresh rate 120Hz, connected via HDMI
Operating System: Windows 11

Usage Patterns:

Standard Work Mode: Operating with the two monitors in extended desktop mode, with the TV turned off.
Gaming Mode: Switching exclusively to the 4K TV for single-player gaming, with the two monitors disabled.

The Issue

Upon returning from the gaming mode—switching from the 4K TV back to the dual-monitor setup—the user experiences:

Screen flickering
Black screens
System become unresponsive, requiring a forced reboot

Despite ensuring that NVIDIA drivers are up-to-date, the problem persists. This raises questions about driver compatibility, Windows 11 settings, or hardware configuration.

Potential Causes and Troubleshooting Strategies

Driver Compatibility and Updates
Ensure you are running the latest NVIDIA graphics drivers, as manufacturers regularly release updates to fix bugs.
Consider performing a clean installation of the GPU drivers to eliminate potential conflicts.
Display Configuration Settings
Verify that Windows Display Settings are correctly configured for each setup.
Use the NVIDIA Control Panel to manage multi-display arrangements and refresh rate settings.
Refresh Rate and Resolution Mismatches
Confirm that all displays are set to their native resolutions and appropriate refresh rates.
Check for any discrepancies that might cause display conflicts during switching.
Connector Compatibility and Hardware Checks
Use high-quality cables and ensure HDMI and DisplayPort connections are secure.
Test if swapping cables or ports alleviates the issue.
Windows 11 Display Management
Use the “Display Settings” to detect and reconfigure monitors after switching.
Disable and re-enable displays or try disconnecting