Optimize Windows 11 for gaming: 10 settings that actually help

Updated 2026-10-20 · Auf Deutsch lesen

Many "FPS boost" lists are full of myths. These ten Windows 11 settings make a real difference, and none of them is risky.

1. Set the right refresh rate. Settings → System → Display → Advanced display → choose the highest Hz. Many 144 Hz monitors run at 60 Hz by default.
2. Game Mode on. Settings → Gaming → Game Mode.
3. Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling on. Settings → System → Display → Graphics → Change default graphics settings. Restart afterwards.
4. Power plan. On desktops use "High performance" or "Best performance" (Settings → System → Power). On laptops, plug in while gaming.
5. Turn off background recording you don't use (Xbox Game Bar captures).
6. Startup apps. Task Manager → Startup apps: disable what you don't need.
7. Enhance pointer precision off (mouse settings) for consistent aim.
8. Update your graphics driver from NVIDIA, AMD or Intel.
9. Keep games on an SSD and leave some space free.
10. Optimizations for windowed games on (Settings → Display → Graphics) for lower latency in borderless mode.

Settings to be careful with

Some guides tell you to turn off Memory Integrity / VBS for more FPS. It can help a little in some games, but it is a security feature, and some anti-cheats need it. Only change it if you understand the trade-off.

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