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Windows 11 Gaming Optimization Guide: Gain 15+ FPS

Optimize Windows 11 for maximum gaming performance by disabling bloat and configuring settings properly.

March 22, 2026
By Alex Chen
Windows 11OptimizationGamingPerformance

Windows 11 Gaming Optimization

Enable Game Mode, disable startup bloat, and set the High Performance power plan for best results. Total gains average 15-25 FPS in demanding titles. These free optimizations take 30-60 minutes and require no hardware changes whatsoever.

Step-by-Step Optimization Guide

1. Enable Windows Game Mode (Settings > Gaming > Game Mode > On)

2. Disable Xbox Game Bar if you don't use it — it uses background resources

3. Set Power Plan to High Performance (Control Panel > Power Options)

4. Disable unnecessary startup programs via Task Manager > Startup tab

5. Turn off Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling if you have an older GPU driver

6. Ensure your GPU drivers are up to date via GeForce Experience or AMD Software

Additional Tweaks

Disable visual effects by searching "Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows" and selecting "Adjust for best performance." This recovers CPU cycles wasted on animations. Also disable Memory Compression if you have 32GB or more RAM.

Regular maintenance such as clearing temporary files and defragging HDDs (not SSDs) also contributes to sustained gaming performance over time.

About the Author

A
Alex Chen
Senior Hardware Analyst

Specialising in CPUs, motherboards & overclocking. Part of the PC Hardware Finder editorial team, dedicated to helping Australians make informed decisions when building or upgrading their PCs.

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