DeviceHowTo
Chromebook2 min

How to Change Screen Timeout on Chromebook

Set how long before the screen locks or turns off when idle.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Chromebook screen timeout is in Settings > Device > Displays > Sleep, and the options typically cover 1 to 30 minutes with a Keep Display On while charging option. Chromebook screen timeout interacts with the Screensaver setting, which activates before the display fully turns off, and with the Lock screen timer which determines when a password is required after waking. For presentations or demos, going to Settings > Device > Displays and enabling Keep Awake prevents the screen from dimming entirely without needing to adjust the normal timeout setting.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Go to Settings > Device > Displays > Sleep and choose the timeout duration.
  2. 2Use shorter timeouts on battery for energy savings; use longer or Never only when plugged in.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chromebook have a built-in way to change screen timeout?
Yes. Chromebook includes a native option to change screen timeout without installing third-party software. Follow the Quick Steps above for the exact location in the settings menu.
How long does it take to change screen timeout on Chromebook?
Most users complete this in about 2 min. Complex cases that require troubleshooting or a restart may take a few extra minutes.
Is it safe to change screen timeout on Chromebook?
Yes — this is a standard Chromebook operation. Follow the steps exactly as written, particularly any warnings shown in red or amber banners at the top of this guide.
What should I do if change screen timeout doesn't work on Chromebook?
Follow the Still Not Working section above for targeted fallback steps. As a final resort, install any pending OS updates and restart the device before trying again — most software issues resolve after an update.

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