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Created: August 31st 2025
Categories: IT Knowledge,  IT Support,  Linux,  Operating Systems
Author: Dusan Rasic

Linux Mint fractional scaling HiDPI 2K/4K

Tags:  Linux,  Linux beginner guide,  Linux Mint,  Linux Mint cinnamon
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If you’re using Linux Mint on a modern laptop or monitor with a 2K or 4K resolution, you’ve probably noticed that text, menus, and icons can look uncomfortably small. This is where fractional scaling comes in handy, allowing you to scale your display to something more comfortable than the default 100% or 200%.

What is Fractional Scaling?

By default, Linux Mint supports scaling at fixed levels like 100% and 200%. While this works, it doesn’t always fit well with HiDPI screens. Fractional scaling introduces intermediate options, such as 125% or 150%, giving you finer control over how your desktop is displayed. This means you can enjoy the clarity of a high-resolution screen without sacrificing readability.

How to Enable Fractional Scaling in Linux Mint

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

  1. Open the Menu and go to System Settings.
  2. Navigate to Display.
  3. In the Resolution and Scaling section, toggle on Fractional Scaling.
  4. Select your preferred scale factor (e.g., 125% or 150%).
  5. Click Apply and confirm the changes.

After enabling fractional scaling, you should immediately notice that fonts and icons are more readable, while still looking crisp.

Performance Considerations

Keep in mind that fractional scaling may slightly increase GPU usage, especially on lower-end hardware. If you notice performance issues, try experimenting with different scale factors or sticking to whole numbers (100% or 200%).

Pro Tip: Per-Monitor Scaling

Linux Mint also supports per-monitor scaling. If you’re using multiple displays with different resolutions, you can assign different scaling factors to each one. This is particularly useful if you connect your laptop to an external 4K monitor.

Conclusion

Fractional scaling makes Linux Mint much more user-friendly on HiDPI screens. With just a few clicks, you can improve readability without losing the sharpness of your display. It’s a small tweak that can make a big difference in your daily workflow.