How to Enable Optimizations for Windowed Games in Windows 11

Windows 11 has a feature designed to make your games run smoother. It is called Optimizations for windowed games. This feature helps games that do not run in full-screen mode perform better.

Why use this feature?

Games often run slower or have more lag when they are in a window instead of full-screen. This setting updates how your computer displays these games. It lowers latency, which makes your controls feel more responsive. It also unlocks features like Auto HDR and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).

What happens when you are done?

Once you turn this on, your windowed and borderless games will use a modern display style. This makes them act more like full-screen games, giving you a better experience without needing to change your game settings.

Note: This feature is currently available for users in the Windows Insider Program (dev channel). You can click here to join and get access to build 22545 or above.

How to enable or disable optimizations

Follow these steps to change your settings.

1. Open the Settings app. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard or by clicking Start and then Settings.

2. In the Settings menu, click on the System tab. Then, click on the Display tile.

3. Look for the Related settings section. Click on the Graphics tile to open it.

4. Under Default settings, look for Optimization for windowed games. Use the toggle switch to turn it On or Off.

Note: Adjusting these system-wide display settings requires admin privileges on your computer.

Summary

Optimizations for windowed games is a simple toggle in your Windows 11 settings that improves how windowed games look and feel. By reducing lag and enabling advanced features like Auto HDR and VRR, your gaming experience becomes much smoother. If you are part of the Windows Insider Program, you can turn this on or off in the Graphics settings menu at any time.