How to Change Power Modes in Windows 11

What is Power Mode in 🪟 Windows 11?

Windows 11 power modes let you change how your computer uses electricity to balance speed and battery life. You can pick between three settings: Best Power Efficiency to make your battery last longer, Balanced for everyday tasks, and Best Performance when you need your PC to run as fast as possible.

Windows offers three distinct profiles:

• Best Power Efficiency: This is for saving battery. Windows will slightly lower performance and might dim your screen to make your battery last longer. It’s great when you’re away from a power outlet.
• Balanced (Default): This is the middle option and is likely what your PC uses now. It gives you good performance when you’re using your computer and saves power when you’re not. Most people use this because it offers a good mix.
• Best Performance: Use this if you need your PC to be as fast as possible. It focuses on speed and responsiveness. Your screen might be brighter, and your system will be ready to go instantly. This mode uses more power, so your battery won’t last as long when unplugged.

They can automatically switch to power-saving settings when your PC isn’t being used. This happens without you noticing and helps save energy.

Can I Set Different Power Modes for Battery and When Plugged In?

Yes, you can set different Windows 11 power modes for when your laptop runs on battery and when it is plugged into the wall. This lets you use a power-saving mode while you are away from an outlet, and automatically switch to a higher performance mode once you plug your charger back in.

How to Change Your Power Mode in 🪟 Windows 11

Here’s how to change your power mode using the Settings app:

Step 1Open Windows Settings

Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard. Or, click the Start button and then click the Settings gear icon.

Step 2Go to Power & Battery Settings

In the Settings app, click System on the left side. Then, on the right side, click Power & battery.

Step 3Expand the Power Mode Options

In the Power & battery section, find and click on Power Mode to see the options.

Step 4Choose Your Preferred Power Mode

Open Settings, click System, and select Power & battery to choose your preferred Windows 11 power modes. From there, use the drop-down menu next to Power Mode to pick Best Power Efficiency, Balanced, or Best Performance for both your plugged-in and on-battery states.

• Best Power Efficiency
• Balanced
• Best Performance

Choose the mode you want for when your PC is plugged in and the mode you want for when it's on battery. For instance, you might pick "Best Power Efficiency" for when your laptop's on battery and "Balanced" or "Best Performance" for when it's plugged in.

Important Note: This Power Mode setting is only available if your PC has a battery and you are currently using the "Balanced" power plan. If the setting isn't there or appears grayed out, it could be that you're using a different power plan, or your device (like a desktop computer) doesn't have a battery.

Step 5Close Settings

Your changes are saved automatically. You can now close the Settings window.

Summary

Windows 11 power modes help you manage your battery life and computer speed by letting you pick between Best Power Efficiency, Balanced, and Best Performance. You can change these settings by opening Settings, going to System, clicking Power & battery, and selecting your preferred Power Mode.