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Fix a Windows that has game that is slow

We'll improve performance with graphics settings, drivers, and background apps.

Troubleshooting · Home maintenance
15–30 min
Step 1 of 4

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Steps

Goal: Improve game performance.

  • Lower graphics settings. Update driver. Close background apps.
  • Good: FPS improved. Bad: Check hardware.

Lower graphics

Goal: Reduce GPU load.

  • Lower resolution, shadows, effects in game settings.
  • Good: FPS improved. Bad: Close apps.

Close background apps

Goal: Free CPU and RAM.

  • Close browsers, Discord. Enable Game Mode.
  • Good: FPS improved. Bad: Update driver.

When to get help

If hardware is below game minimum requirements, upgrade may be needed.

Verification

  • FPS improved.
  • Game runs smoothly.
  • Background apps closed.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Lower settings Reduce resolution, shadows, effects.
  2. Driver and power Update driver; High performance power plan.
  3. Background apps Close browsers, Discord, etc.
  4. Upgrade Hardware may need upgrade.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Game: name, FPS?
  • GPU: model, driver version?
  • CPU/RAM usage: when gaming?
  • Steps already tried

Are in-game graphics set to high or ultra?

High settings reduce FPS.

Lower resolution, shadows, effects. Good: FPS improved. Bad: close background apps.
Question

FPS improved?

Continue

You can change your answer later.

Lower graphics settings

In-game: lower resolution to 1080p, reduce shadows and effects. Test FPS.

Done

Are background apps using CPU or RAM?

Browsers, Discord use resources.

Task Manager. Close browsers, Discord. Enable Game Mode. High performance power plan. Good: FPS improved. Bad: update driver; check hardware.
Question

FPS improved?

Continue

You can change your answer later.

Update driver and check hardware

Update graphics driver. If hardware below game minimums, upgrade may be needed.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a game be slow?
High graphics settings, outdated driver, background apps, or insufficient hardware. Lower settings; update driver; close apps.
Can I fix a slow game myself?
Yes. Lower resolution and graphics. Update graphics driver. Close browsers and other apps. Enable Game Mode.
When should I call a technician for slow games?
If hardware is below game requirements—upgrade may be needed. Otherwise, software tweaks usually help.

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