How to Enable or Disable Fullscreen Optimizations for Games in Windows 11
Fullscreen optimizations in Windows 11 are a game setting that can improve how games run. This feature aims to make games faster and smoother by letting Windows manage your PC’s resources better when a game is on your screen.
You can turn fullscreen optimizations on or off for individual games. This setting is found in the game’s Properties, usually on the Compatibility tab. For instance, on Windows 11 version 23H2, adjusting this can fix certain visual glitches.
When fullscreen optimizations are on, Windows tries to give your game the best possible performance. However, sometimes turning them off can actually help a game run more smoothly if you notice stuttering or other issues.
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.
How It Works
Fullscreen optimizations in Windows 11 give your game priority when the game is the main app running, which helps the game use system resources better for improved performance. Although fullscreen optimizations are on by default and usually help, some games might run better if you turn these optimizations off. This setting helps Windows manage your system for a smoother gaming experience.
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 toggle fullscreen optimizations on or off for a specific game, just for your account, by adjusting its executable file's properties in Windows 11. Right-click the game's .exe file, select 'Properties,' and go to the 'Compatibility' tab. Here, you can check the box to disable fullscreen optimizations or uncheck the box to let fullscreen optimizations run.
- 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)
Changing fullscreen optimizations for all users on your computer in Windows 11 requires administrator permission to modify the game's file settings. Right-click the game's executable file, choose 'Properties,' and go to the 'Compatibility' tab. You'll then need to click 'Change settings for all users' to make adjustments that affect everyone using the PC.
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 functional, though you can disable them for specific games if issues arise.
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 doesn't automatically boost FPS for most people. 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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