If you are using a different distribution like Arch Linux or a modern Wayland-based environment, you might need alternative solutions: Platform/Package
Software-based controllers like the original work by applying a filter over your screen; they do not physically change the backlight intensity of external monitors. If your screen still feels "washed out" even when dimmed, you should use the physical buttons on your monitor or the ddcutil tool to adjust the actual hardware backlight. Brightness Controller for Linux
Save specific brightness and color settings as profiles for quick switching between day and night modes. download brightness controller for linux
Unlike hardware keys that might only reach 10% minimum, this tool can dim screens to near-zero (0.01). How to Download and Install on Ubuntu/Linux Mint
The most common way to get the latest version on Ubuntu (24.04, 22.04) and its derivatives like Linux Mint is via the official Personal Package Archive (PPA). (Ctrl+Alt+T). Add the PPA to your system: sudo add-apt-repository ppa:apandada1/brightness-controller Use code with caution. Update your package list : sudo apt update Use code with caution. Install the application : For the full version (with RGB controls): sudo apt install brightness-controller Use code with caution. For a lightweight slider-only version: sudo apt install brightness-controller-simple Use code with caution. Alternative Brightness Tools for Linux If you are using a different distribution like
Independently control the brightness of up to four displays.
External monitors with DDC/CI support (real hardware control) Available in most official repos Simple GTK application for modern desktops GitHub/Releases brightnessctl Command-line control for laptops sudo apt install brightnessctl SoftBrightness GNOME users wanting a top-panel slider GNOME Extensions Luminance (Flatpak) Universal Linux installation Important Troubleshooting Tip Unlike hardware keys that might only reach 10%
Modify Red, Green, and Blue (RGB) levels to reduce eye strain (similar to "Night Light" or Redshift).