So what's this factional scaling? The default GNOME scaling only allows scaling the user interface in whole numbers (e.g. 100%, 200%), and this doesn't work well with every HiDPI monitor; this is where fractional scaling comes in, which allows scaling using fractions, so users can set scaling percentages like 125% or 150%.
To enable experimental fractional scaling on Wayland (requires GNOME 3.32+), use this:
gsettings set org.gnome.mutter experimental-features "['scale-monitor-framebuffer']"
To enable experimental fractional scaling on X11 (requires Ubuntu 19.04 Disco Dingo), the default Ubuntu session, use:
gsettings set org.gnome.mutter experimental-features "['x11-randr-fractional-scaling']"
In both Wayland and X11 cases, to use fractional scaling open
Settings
, go to Devices -> Displays
and you'll be able to set a fractional scale (like 125% or 150%) there:It's worth noting that using fractional scaling on X11 has effects like increased CPU and GPU usage. This only solution for this right now is to use a Wayland session instead.
Want to reset this and disable fractional scaling? In both Wayland and X11 cases, reset it using:
gsettings reset org.gnome.mutter experimental-features
Sources: Treviño's Blog and discourse.ubuntu.com