Change graphics setting to 16bit color for performance

Posted on Aug 12, 2007 by Paul White

Most computers today can run up to 32bit color, but that doesn't mean you have to use it.  32bit color is only good if you are a hardcore gamer, or if you do some serious graphics work.  Most users that use their computer to surf the web, check email, or run office applications don't need anything higher than 16 bit color.  Running 24bit or 32bit color just wastes system resources and CPU time.  Even though its pretty simple to set your graphics to 16bit color, many don't know how. This step by step tutorial will walk you through how to do it.

Right Mouse Click on your desktop ( somewhere in the blank space, not on an icon )

You will get a drop down menu,  left click on Properties.

This will bring up the following screen


Click on the Settings tab at the top right



Here you can change your resolution, and your Color Quality.
The higher your resolution the smaller all the text and icons will be, 1024 x 768 or 1280 x 1024 is typical.  Old computers may run at 800 x 600.
The color quality depending on your video card will vary from 8 bit, 16 bit, 24 bit or 32 bit.  Select 16 bit. by using the dropdown arrow.
If you are running multiple displays like I am, you can select different color quality for each monitor.



After you have selected the proper color quality, click "Apply", then click OK and you are done.

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