Changing your Mac’s screen saver is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Whether you want to use one of the built-in screen savers or add a personal touch with your own photos, this guide will walk you through the process.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Change Screen Saver on Mac
Before we dive into the steps, let’s briefly discuss what we’re aiming to achieve. Changing your screen saver can give your Mac a fresh look and can also serve as a fun way to display your favorite photos or graphics when you’re not actively using your computer.
Step 1: Open System Preferences
Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences."
Opening System Preferences is your gateway to customizing various settings on your Mac, including your screen saver.
Step 2: Click on "Desktop & Screen Saver"
Look for the "Desktop & Screen Saver" icon and click on it.
This section contains all the options for changing your desktop background and screen saver settings.
Step 3: Select the "Screen Saver" Tab
At the top of the window, you’ll see two tabs. Click on the "Screen Saver" tab.
Here, you’ll find a list of available screen savers and options to customize their appearance.
Step 4: Choose a Screen Saver
Browse through the list of screen savers and click on the one you want to use.
You can preview each screen saver by clicking on it. A preview will play on the right side of the window.
Step 5: Customize Your Screen Saver (Optional)
After selecting a screen saver, you can customize it by clicking on "Screen Saver Options" if the button is available.
Some screen savers allow you to adjust settings like speed, color, and more to fit your preferences.
Step 6: Set the Start Time
Use the "Start after" dropdown menu to choose how long your Mac should wait before activating the screen saver when idle.
You can set a specific duration, ranging from a few minutes to never, depending on how often you want your screen saver to appear.
After completing these steps, your new screen saver will be set and will activate after the designated period of inactivity. You can always change it again by following the same steps or customize it further to suit your needs.
Tips for How to Change Screen Saver on Mac
- If you want to use personal photos as your screen saver, select the "Photos Library" option from the screen saver list.
- To quickly access the screen saver settings, you can use the search function in System Preferences by typing "screen saver."
- Consider choosing a screen saver that includes a clock or other useful information if you often glance at your Mac while it’s idle.
- If you have multiple displays, you can set different screen savers for each one by opening System Preferences on the respective display.
- Remember to click the "Preview" button to see how your screen saver will look before finalizing your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add my own photos to use as a screen saver?
To use your own photos as a screen saver, select the "Photos Library" option from the screen saver list and choose the album you want to display.
Can I use a video as a screen saver on my Mac?
Yes, you can use a video as a screen saver by selecting the "Aerial" option, which includes video footage, or by using third-party software to add custom videos.
How do I prevent my screen saver from starting automatically?
To prevent your screen saver from starting automatically, set the "Start after" dropdown menu in the screen saver settings to "Never."
How do I change the screen saver on multiple monitors?
To change the screen saver on multiple monitors, open System Preferences on the respective display and follow the same steps to set a different screen saver for each one.
Can I set a password to be required when exiting the screen saver?
Yes, you can set a password requirement by going to "Security & Privacy" in System Preferences and enabling the option to require a password after sleep or screen saver begins.
Summary
- Open System Preferences
- Click on "Desktop & Screen Saver"
- Select the "Screen Saver" Tab
- Choose a Screen Saver
- Customize Your Screen Saver (Optional)
- Set the Start Time
Conclusion
There you have it! Changing your Mac’s screen saver is a breeze when you know where to look and what to do. With this guide, you’re now equipped to give your Mac a personalized touch, making it feel more like your own. Whether it’s showcasing your favorite memories or just adding a bit of flair, your screen saver can be a reflection of your personality and style. And remember, if you ever get tired of the one you’ve chosen, you can always switch it up again at any time. So go ahead, experiment with different screen savers, and enjoy the fresh look of your Mac. If you’re interested in more Mac customization tips or want to dive deeper into what your computer can do, there’s a plethora of resources and communities out there dedicated to all things Mac. Keep exploring, learning, and making your Mac truly yours.