How to Fix Screen Tearing in Geometry Dash
Screen tearing happens when your FPS doesn't match your monitor's refresh rate. Match your FPS bypass to your monitor, or use GPU control panel V-Sync.
By Starmade · Updated 2026-06-30
Symptom Summary
Horizontal lines or tears appear across the screen during gameplay, where the image looks misaligned. This is distracting and can affect gameplay precision.
Likely Causes
Screen tearing occurs when:
- 1
FPS Mismatch
Your game's FPS doesn't match your monitor's refresh rate. This is the most common cause.
- 2
V-Sync Off
Having V-Sync off gives you lower input lag but can cause tearing if FPS and refresh rate don't align.
- 3
Borderless Mode Bug
In version 2.206, a bug caused screen tearing even with V-Sync on in borderless mode.
Quick Fixes
Try these solutions:
- 1
Match FPS to monitor
Set your FPS bypass to match your monitor's refresh rate (60, 120, 144, or 240). This is the cleanest fix.
- 2
GPU Control Panel V-Sync
Enable V-Sync in your NVIDIA or AMD control panel — NOT in GD's settings. GD's V-Sync will re-cap your FPS.
- 3
Use Fast Sync (NVIDIA)
NVIDIA users can use 'Fast Sync' or 'Adaptive Sync' in the NVIDIA Control Panel for a balance of no tearing and low input lag.
- 4
Turn off borderless
If you're on 2.206+, try turning off borderless mode and using fullscreen instead.
- 5
Enable FreeSync/G-Sync
If your monitor supports FreeSync or G-Sync, enable it in your GPU control panel for variable refresh rate.
Platform Notes
NVIDIA: Use NVIDIA Control Panel > Manage 3D Settings > Program Settings > Geometry Dash. Set Vertical Sync to 'Fast' or 'Adaptive'. AMD: Use Radeon Settings > Graphics > Wait for Vertical Refresh. Intel: Use Intel Graphics Command Center.
FAQ
How do I fix screen tearing in Geometry Dash?
Match your FPS bypass setting to your monitor's refresh rate, or enable V-Sync in your GPU control panel (not in GD's settings).
Should I use V-Sync in Geometry Dash?
Don't use GD's built-in V-Sync if you want FPS unlock — it will re-cap your FPS. Instead, manage V-Sync in your GPU control panel.
Why does screen tearing happen with FPS bypass?
When your FPS doesn't match your monitor's refresh rate, the screen shows partial frames from different moments, causing visible tearing lines.