SwitchResX
SwitchResX is a macOS display utility that helps you manage screen resolutions, refresh rates, display modes, and multi-monitor behavior.
What is SwitchResX?
SwitchResX is a macOS utility for configuring and fine-tuning display settings beyond the controls built into System Settings. It helps users manage custom resolutions, refresh rates, aspect ratios, color depth options, and display-specific preferences for external monitors, TVs, and multi-display setups. People commonly use it to solve compatibility issues with unusual screens, optimize a Mac for projectors or televisions, or switch display modes for different workflows such as editing, presentations, and media playback. The app also includes menu bar access and automation options for changing display settings more quickly. Published by Stephane Madrau, SwitchResX is aimed at power users and professionals who need more control over monitor behavior on Mac.
Key features
- Create and use custom screen resolutions for compatible displays
- Switch refresh rates and display modes for different monitors or TVs
- Manage multi-display setups with per-screen configuration options
- Access display controls from the menu bar for quicker changes
- Set automatic resolution changes for specific apps or workflows
- Adjust advanced monitor settings that go beyond standard macOS options
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
SwitchResX is legitimate display-management software for Mac, but it changes low-level screen settings that can temporarily make a display unreadable or unsupported if you choose an incompatible mode. That kind of risk is directly related to what the app is designed to do, not a sign of malware. Use it carefully when creating custom resolutions or refresh rates, and make changes one step at a time so you can easily return to a working setting if the screen goes black or looks incorrect.
Recommendation: Keep SwitchResX if you actively use custom display settings, external monitors, projectors, or TV output on your Mac. If you no longer need those controls, you can remove it, but any custom display profiles or convenience settings you relied on may stop working.
Common paths
/Applications/SwitchResX.app
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/fr.madrau.switchresx.app.plist~/Library/Preferences/fr.madrau.switchresx.daemon.plist
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