Microsoft’s recent preview update for Windows 11, designated KB5079391, made waves in the tech community with its ambitious support for display refresh rates exceeding 1,000Hz. Internal documentation has revealed that this limit could extend as high as 5,000Hz. However, the excitement was short-lived, as Microsoft swiftly retracted the update on March 27 due to unforeseen installation challenges. Users can expect these enhancements to be rolled out in a future release.
This update is applicable to Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 26H1. The first to spotlight the potential for 5,000Hz refresh rates was Blur Busters, a site dedicated to display technology. Its founder, Mark Rehjon, played a pivotal role in persuading Microsoft to elevate the maximum refresh rate to this impressive level. Interestingly, Microsoft’s official update notes only reference support for “refresh rates above 1,000Hz”, leaving the upper limit somewhat ambiguous.
Display And UI Changes In Windows 11 Update KB5079391
Beyond the remarkable refresh rate capabilities, the KB5079391 update introduces a suite of enhancements aimed at improving display performance. Key improvements include:
- Enhanced auto-rotation and HDR reliability
- Improved power efficiency for monitors connected via USB4
- Detailed image descriptions for Copilot and Copilot+ PCs when using Narrator
- Redesigned dialog boxes in the Accounts settings menu under the Other section
Why Windows 11 Now Supports Up To 5,000Hz Refresh Rates
The push for higher refresh rates aligns with industry trends, as showcased at CES 2026, where Acer, AOC, and Philips unveiled gaming monitors boasting 1,000Hz refresh rates at HD (720p) resolution. As reported by Blur Busters, several manufacturers are gearing up to launch 2,000Hz display panels by 2030. This foresight suggests that the 5,000Hz threshold in Windows 11 is strategically positioned to accommodate future hardware advancements.
Historically, previous iterations of Windows did not support refresh rates beyond 1,000Hz, indicating that a forthcoming update will be essential for compatibility with these next-generation displays.
KB5079391 Installation Issues And Future Rollout
Following its release, Microsoft promptly withdrew KB5079391 on March 27 due to unspecified installation issues. The tech giant has yet to announce a timeline for when a revised version will be made available. For users who missed the opportunity to install the update prior to its withdrawal, rest assured that the forthcoming reissue will include all the anticipated changes.
