How to Enable or Disable Fullscreen Optimizations for Games in Windows 11
You enable or disable fullscreen optimizations for games in Windows 11 by adjusting a specific compatibility setting for each executable file.
Fullscreen optimizations are a Windows feature that aims to boost game performance by cutting down on system latency (the delay between your actions and the game’s response). Turning them off can sometimes help if your games are running poorly or stuttering.
The fullscreen optimizations setting resides within the Properties window of a game's executable (.exe) file, typically on the Compatibility tab. This setting allows users to adjust performance for individual games. For example, on a computer running Windows 11 version 22H2, this option can help fix certain graphical problems.
To enable or disable fullscreen optimizations for a game, right-click its executable file and select Properties. Navigate to the Compatibility tab and check or uncheck the “Disable fullscreen optimizations” box. Click OK to apply the changes.
Why Fullscreen Optimizations Matter
Fullscreen optimizations in Windows 11 can make your games run smoother by helping Windows manage resources better, which is important for both speed and features.
There are two main ways games can run: Fullscreen Exclusive (FSE) mode (where a game takes over your entire screen) for top speed, but you can’t easily use overlays or switch apps. Or borderless windowed mode, which lets you switch windows and use overlays smoothly, but might slightly reduce performance. Fullscreen optimizations try to give you the best of both.
Windows 11 games that appear to run fullscreen actually operate in borderless windowed mode. This mode offers benefits such as faster alt-tabbing between the game and other applications, reduced input lag, and better performance for some games.
- Full screen display
- Fast performance
- Quick alt-tab switching
- Support for overlays like the Game Bar
How It Works
Fullscreen optimizations work by letting Windows give your game priority when it’s the only thing you’re running, helping it perform better.
Fullscreen optimizations in Windows 11 are on by default. These optimizations often improve game performance by making games use system resources more efficiently. Disabling fullscreen optimizations can improve performance for some specific games, offering a performance boost.
Reference: Demystifying Fullscreen Optimizations – DirectX Developer Blog
We wrote this article to explain the difference between Fullscreen Exclusive and Fullscreen Optimizations.
Option 1
Enable or Disable Fullscreen Optimizations for One App or Game (Your Account Only)
You can turn fullscreen optimizations on or off for a specific game just for your account by changing its properties in the Compatibility tab.
- Right click or press and hold on the EXE file of the app or game. Click on Properties.
- Click on the Compatibility tab. (see screenshot below)
- Check the box (to disable) or uncheck the box (to enable – default) next to Disable fullscreen optimizations.
- Click on OK.
Option 2
Enable or Disable Fullscreen Optimizations for One App or Game (All Users)
To change fullscreen optimizations for everyone on your computer, you’ll need administrator rights to adjust the game’s file properties.
Follow these steps to change fullscreen optimizations for everyone on your computer:
- Right click or press and hold on the EXE file of the app or game. Click on Properties.
- Click on the Compatibility tab. Then click on Change settings for all users.
- Check the box (to disable) or uncheck the box (to enable – default) next to Disable fullscreen optimizations. Then click on OK.
- Click on OK.
Summary
Fullscreen optimizations help games run faster and keep features like overlays working, but you can turn them off for specific games if needed.
What does disable fullscreen optimizations do in 🪟 Windows 11?
Disabling fullscreen optimizations forces your game to run in traditional Fullscreen Exclusive (FSE) mode. This bypasses Windows’ hybrid display management, which can resolve compatibility issues, stuttering, or input lag in certain titles. However, you will lose the ability to use overlays or alt-tab between windows as quickly.
What do fullscreen optimizations do?
Fullscreen optimizations combine the benefits of Fullscreen Exclusive mode and borderless windowed mode. They allow games to run with the performance and low latency of exclusive fullscreen while maintaining the convenience of borderless windows, such as faster alt-tab switching and seamless support for overlays like the Windows Game Bar.
Should I tick disable fullscreen optimizations?
You should only turn off fullscreen optimizations if you’re having problems like screen tearing or stuttering in a specific game.
Does disabling full screen optimization increase FPS?
Disabling fullscreen optimization does not inherently increase FPS for most users. In some cases, it may actually decrease performance or cause instability. You should only disable it if you encounter specific technical glitches or input latency, as the feature is designed to optimize performance while maintaining system responsiveness.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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