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peiterhergert
peiterhergert
Participant
April 6, 2026
Question

Composition window in AE blank

  • April 6, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 13 views

Went blank two days ago, randomly. Ive updated drivers, re-installed AE multiple times, and still the composition window is blank. If I hit spacebar to preview the animation, the compostion window shows itself and it’s content. When stopped, nothing shows. 

AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 5975WX 32-Cores

256 GB

Windows 11 Pro

AE 2026

Dual 3090s with latest drivers

    2 replies

    R
    Community Expert
    RobShultzCommunity Expert
    Community Expert
    April 7, 2026

    Also please try re-setting preferences: To reset After Effects preferences to default, hold down Ctrl+Alt+Shift (Windows) or Cmd+Option+Shift (Mac) while launching the application

    Kevin J. Monahan Jr.
    Community Manager
    Kevin J. Monahan Jr.Community Manager
    Community Manager
    April 7, 2026

    Hi @peiterherhert,
    Thanks for sharing the details. Since the composition only appears during playback, that’s a strong indicator of a GPU/rendering issue rather than a problem with the comp itself.


    A few things to try:

    • Go to File > Project Settings > Video Rendering & Effects and switch to Mercury Software Only to check if the issue persists. 
    • Disable Hardware Accelerated Composition, Layer, and Footage Panels in Settings/Preferences > Appearance
    • Make sure Windows display scaling is set to a standard value (e.g. 100% or 150%)
    • If you're using multiple GPUs, try disabling one temporarily to test

    Let us know the results, and we can help narrow it down further. I hope we can help you.

     

    Thanks,
    Kevin

     

    Kevin Monahan - Sr. Community and Engagement Strategist – Adobe Pro Video and Audio
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