How to Enable or Disable Graphics Acceleration in Chrome

This article explains how to enable or disable graphics acceleration in the Google Chrome browser when available.

Google Chrome is a web browser developed by Google that runs on multiple platforms. It shares the same codebase as Microsoft Edge, making the two browsers nearly identical in their basic functionalities.

When using the Google Chrome browser, you can utilize the HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled policy to enable or disable graphics acceleration when available.

If Google Chrome is malfunctioning, try disabling graphics acceleration.

The following steps will help enable or disable graphics acceleration in Google Chrome.

Enable/Disable Hardware Acceleration in Chrome

Users can enable or disable graphics or hardware acceleration in Chrome using the HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled policy.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Google Chrome browser.

Then, click on the Customize and Control (3 vertical dots button) in the top right corner and select Settings.

On the Settings page, click the “System” link on the left menu.

On the right, click the tile labeled “Use graphics acceleration when available.” Then, toggle the button On or Off to enable or disable it.

You can close the Chrome settings page when finished.

Enable / Disable Graphics Acceleration in Chrome using the Registry

Another way to enable or disable graphics acceleration in Chrome is to use the Windows Registry Editor.

First, open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.

Remember to back up your registry before making any changes, or create a System Restore point as a precaution.

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Google\Chrome

In the registry key paths, if you do not see Google, right-click on the Policies key and create a new key named Google. Do the same for Chrome if it is not listed.

Once there, right-click Chrome > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled.

Double-click and open the HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled name and set the value to 0 to disable graphics acceleration in Chrome.

To enable it for all users, set the value to 1.

Delete the “HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled” name created above to restore the default behavior and allow users to manage using graphics acceleration in the UI.

HardwareAccelerationModeEnabled

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Enabling or disabling graphics acceleration in Google Chrome can help improve browser performance or resolve issues.
• Users have two methods to manage hardware acceleration: through the Chrome settings or the Windows Registry.
• Disabling graphics acceleration may be beneficial if you are experiencing malfunctions in Chrome.
• Always back up your registry before making any changes to prevent unintended consequences.
• Regularly check your Chrome settings to ensure your browsing experience is optimal.

Following the steps outlined, you can effectively manage your graphics acceleration settings in Google Chrome.