We’d hazard a guess that the reason you’re reading this is because you can’t find the power settings in Windows 8. You’re not alone. In Windows 8 (and 8.1) there are effectively two Control Panels. One can be found on the traditional Desktop (right-click in the bottom left corner to get the ‘power’ menu with a link to Control Panel) and the other in the Charms bar, under Settings. Here’s the easiest way to change the idle time for your screen and sleep modes: Step 1: Bring up the Charms bar by pressing the Windows key and C together, or by swiping in from the right on a touchscreen. If you hate keyboard shortcuts and don’t have a touchscreen, then move your mouse to the top or bottom ‘hot’ corner on the right-hand side and the Charms bar will appear after a second or so.
Step 2: Click or tap on Settings and then choose Change PC Settings at the bottom.
Step 3: Go to Power & sleep in the left-hand menu and you’ll see options for turning the screen off and when the PC should go to sleep. If you want to completely stop the screen turning off, choose Never from the relevant drop-down.
Step 4: Windows 8 has no screensaver set by default, which is sensible since it’s better to turn the monitor off and save power. If you must have one, you can find it by right-clicking on the traditional Desktop and choosing Personalize. Click the Screen Saver link and choose a screensaver and the ‘Wait’ time before it kicks in. There’s also a link here for the old power settings.
Jim has been testing and reviewing products for over 20 years. His main beats include VPN services and antivirus. He also covers smart home tech, mesh Wi-Fi and electric bikes.
