Why is My ED270R S3 Stuck at 60Hz? (Fix It Now!)

0 8 4 minutes read

You just got your hands on the Acer ED270R S3, a slick 165Hz curved gaming monitor. You’re hyped to dive into buttery-smooth gameplay but wait why is it locked at 60Hz?! Don’t panic, you’re not alone. A lot of users run into this same head-scratching issue.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly why your ED270R S3 is stuck at 60Hz and more importantly, how to fix it.

What is the Acer ED270R S3?

The Acer ED270R S3 is a 27-inch curved monitor with a fast 165Hz refresh rate, Full HD resolution (1920×1080), and 1ms response time all packed into a sleek design ideal for gamers and casual users alike.

Key Specs:

Refresh Rate: 165Hz (native)
Panel Type: VA
Ports: 1x DisplayPort, 2x HDMI
AMD FreeSync Compatible

If you’re not getting 165Hz, you’re missing out on one of the best things this monitor offers.

Understanding Refresh Rate

What is Refresh Rate?

In simple terms, refresh rate is how many times your screen updates per second. 60Hz = 60 times per second. 165Hz = 165 times. Higher = smoother.

Why Does 165Hz Matter?

Ultra-smooth gameplay
Reduced input lag
Competitive edge in fast-paced games

So if your ED270R S3 is stuck at 60Hz, you’re seriously underusing it.

Common Reasons Your ED270R S3 is Stuck at 60Hz

Let’s break it down. Here’s why your monitor might be bottlenecked:

Wrong Cable Type

Using HDMI 1.4 instead of HDMI 2.0+ or DisplayPort? That’s the problem. Some HDMI cables max out at 60Hz, especially at 1080p.

Display Settings Not Configured

Windows may default to 60Hz even if the monitor can do more.

Graphics Card Limitations

Older or underpowered GPUs might not support 165Hz output at 1080p.

Monitor Drivers Missing or Outdated

If your system treats your monitor as a generic display, it might cap the refresh rate.

Windows Settings Not Optimized

Display settings may still be set to 60Hz manually changing it can fix it.

GPU Control Panel Misconfiguration

NVIDIA/AMD software can override Windows display settings.

Operating System Limitations

Older OS versions or incompatible settings may affect refresh rate.

How to Fix the ED270R S3 Stuck at 60Hz

Step 1: Check Your Cable (HDMI vs DisplayPort)

Use DisplayPort if you can. If you’re stuck with HDMI, make sure it’s HDMI 2.0 or higher. A cheap cable could be the reason you’re stuck at 60Hz.

Pro tip: DisplayPort 1.2 or 1.4 guarantees better bandwidth and stability.

Step 2: Update Monitor and GPU Drivers

Outdated drivers are notorious for causing refresh rate issues.

Go to Device Manager
Expand Monitors and Display adapters
Right-click → Update Driver

You can also go directly to Acer or NVIDIA/AMD’s website for the latest versions.

Step 3: Change Windows Display Settings

Here’s how:

Right-click desktop → Display settings
Scroll to Advanced display settings
Choose your monitor
Click Display adapter properties
Under Monitor tab, choose 165Hz if available

Step 4: Set Refresh Rate in GPU Control Panel

For NVIDIA users:

Open NVIDIA Control Panel
Go to Change resolution
Pick your monitor and set refresh rate to 165Hz

For AMD Radeon users:

Open AMD Radeon Settings
Go to Display tab
Look under Refresh Rate

Step 5: Check Monitor Settings (OSD Menu)

Use your monitor’s physical buttons to:

Enable Overclocking (if available)
Set refresh rate mode to 165Hz
Make sure FreeSync or adaptive sync is turned on

Step 6: Use the Right DisplayPort Version

DP 1.2 can handle 165Hz at 1080p. But for max performance and stability, DP 1.4 is better. Make sure your cable and GPU port both support it.

Step 7: Test on Another PC

To rule out GPU or OS issues, test your monitor with another PC or laptop. If it hits 165Hz there your system is the issue.

Troubleshooting Scenarios

Laptop + Monitor Combo Issues

Some laptops mirror display settings, and HDMI output might be limited. Check if your laptop has a DisplayPort or USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode.

Using Adapters or Docks

Daisy-chaining, adapters, or USB-C hubs can restrict bandwidth. Go direct when possible.

Custom Resolutions and Overclocking Risks

Using custom refresh rates or resolution tweaks can help but be cautious. Some users force 165Hz using custom profiles, but this can void warranties or damage components.

Still Stuck at 60Hz? Try These Advanced Fixes

BIOS Tweaks: Ensure iGPU or multi-monitor options aren’t bottlenecking performance.
Clean Reinstall Drivers: Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in safe mode, then reinstall clean.
Safe Mode Boot and Test: Sometimes startup software conflicts with GPU settings.

When to Contact Support or Consider a Replacement

If nothing works:

Your monitor might be defective
You may have a faulty port or internal wiring issue

Acer’s customer service can help troubleshoot or replace it under warranty.

Conclusion

There’s nothing worse than knowing your monitor can hit 165Hz but being stuck in 60Hz purgatory. Whether it’s a wrong cable, outdated driver, or misconfigured setting, there’s usually a simple fix. Follow the steps above, and you’ll unlock your ED270R S3’s full potential in no time.