If you are facing display issues in Family Tree Maker on Windows, you are not alone. Many users experience problems such as blurry text, distorted graphics, or incorrect screen scaling. These issues can make it difficult to work on your family tree and affect your overall experience.
In most cases, these problems occur due to Windows display settings, especially DPI scaling, outdated drivers, or compatibility issues. Fortunately, you can fix these issues easily by following the correct troubleshooting steps.
Understanding Display Issues in Family Tree Maker
Windows provides a feature called display scaling (DPI scaling), which allows you to increase the size of text, icons, and interface elements. While this is useful for high-resolution screens, it can sometimes cause display problems in applications like Family Tree Maker.
Common display issues include:
- Blurry or unclear text
- Distorted images or charts
- Incorrect scaling on high-resolution screens
- Text or UI elements appearing too small or too large
Method 1: Disable DPI Scaling for Family Tree Maker
One of the most effective ways to fix display issues is by disabling DPI scaling.
Steps to Disable DPI Scaling:
- Locate the Family Tree Maker shortcut on your desktop, Start menu, or taskbar
- Right-click on the shortcut and select Properties
- In the Properties window, go to the Compatibility tab
- Check the option Disable display scaling on high DPI settings
- Click OK to save changes
- Restart the software
After restarting, check if the display issue has been resolved.
Method 2: Adjust Screen Resolution
Sometimes, incorrect screen resolution can cause scaling issues.
Steps:
- Right-click on your desktop
- Select Display Settings
- Scroll to the Resolution section
- Try a different resolution and check if the issue is fixed
- Revert to the original resolution if needed
Method 3: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers are a common cause of display problems.
Solution:
- Visit your computer manufacturer’s website
- Or go to your graphics card provider’s site (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel)
- Download and install the latest drivers
Keeping drivers updated ensures better compatibility with software like Family Tree Maker.
Method 4: Run in Compatibility Mode
Running the software in compatibility mode can resolve many display-related issues.
Steps:
- Right-click on the Family Tree Maker shortcut
- Select Properties
- Go to the Compatibility tab
- Check Run this program in compatibility mode for
- Select an older Windows version (like Windows 7 or 8)
- Click Apply and then OK
Method 5: Update Family Tree Maker Software
Make sure you are using the latest version of Family Tree Maker 2019.
Why updates matter:
- Fix bugs and display issues
- Improve compatibility with Windows
- Enhance performance
You can check for updates directly within the software or from the official website.
Method 6: Adjust Display Settings Inside FTM
Family Tree Maker also allows you to adjust display settings manually.
Steps:
- Open the software
- Go to Tools > Options
- Adjust font size and display preferences
- Apply changes and restart if required
Common Display Issues and Fixes
Blurry or Distorted Graphics
Update graphics drivers and disable DPI scaling
Fonts and Text Not Displaying Properly
Adjust font settings inside FTM and check display scaling
Scaling Problems on High-Resolution Screens
Change screen resolution and use compatibility mode
Tips to Avoid Display Issues
- Always keep your software updated
- Use recommended screen resolution
- Avoid extreme scaling settings in Windows
- Update system drivers regularly
- Restart software after applying changes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is my Family Tree Maker screen blurry?
This usually happens due to DPI scaling or outdated graphics drivers.
Q2. How do I fix scaling issues in FTM?
You can disable DPI scaling or adjust your display resolution.
Q3. Does updating FTM fix display issues?
Yes, updates often include bug fixes and compatibility improvements.
Q4. Can compatibility mode help fix display problems?
Yes, running the software in compatibility mode can resolve many issues.
Q5. Is this issue common in Windows?
Yes, especially on high-resolution displays with scaling enabled.
Conclusion
Display issues in Family Tree Maker for Windows can be frustrating, but they are easy to fix with the right steps. Whether it is DPI scaling, screen resolution, or outdated drivers, applying the solutions above will help you restore normal display functionality.
Regular updates and proper system settings will ensure a smooth and error-free experience while working on your family tree.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
If you are still facing display issues in Family Tree Maker, feel free to visit our website, Family Tree Maker Support. You can also connect with our experts via live chat or call us at +1-888-257-3335.
We are independent support providers and not affiliated with Software MacKiev.

