Increasing the frames per second (FPS) on your laptop running Windows 11 can significantly enhance your gaming and video experience. In simple terms, FPS measures how smoothly a game or video runs. Higher FPS means smoother visuals and more responsive gameplay. To boost FPS, you’ll need to adjust settings, update drivers, and possibly tweak some hardware options. With a few straightforward steps, you can optimize your laptop’s performance and enjoy a more seamless experience.
How to Increase FPS on Laptop Windows 11
To get the most out of your laptop’s performance, you’ll need to follow several steps that focus on optimizing both software and hardware. These steps will guide you through updating your system, adjusting settings, and making the necessary tweaks to increase FPS.
Step 1: Update Graphics Drivers
Firstly, make sure your graphics drivers are up to date. Manufacturers constantly release updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
You can check for updates by visiting your graphics card manufacturer’s website or using Windows Update. Updated drivers often include performance enhancements that can help increase FPS in games and video playback.
Step 2: Adjust Power Settings
Step 2 involves switching your laptop’s power settings to “High Performance.” This setting prioritizes performance over energy savings.
You can find this option by going to Settings > System > Power & Battery. Although it may drain your battery faster, it maximizes your laptop’s processing power for improved performance.
Step 3: Close Background Applications
Close any unnecessary apps running in the background. These can consume valuable resources needed for optimal FPS.
Use Task Manager to end tasks that you’re not using. This will free up CPU and RAM, allowing your laptop to focus more on the game or video you’re running.
Step 4: Optimize In-Game Settings
Lowering your game’s graphics settings can instantly boost FPS. Look for options like texture quality, shadows, and resolution.
Reducing these settings can significantly increase your FPS as the laptop won’t have to work as hard to render high-quality graphics, ensuring smoother gameplay.
Step 5: Enable Game Mode
Windows 11 has a built-in Game Mode that prioritizes system resources for games. It can help improve performance by minimizing background activity.
Enable Game Mode by going to Settings > Gaming > Game Mode and turning it on. This setting can be the key to achieving a noticeable boost in FPS.
After completing these steps, you should see an improvement in your laptop’s FPS. Your games and videos will run smoother, providing a more enjoyable and immersive experience.
Tips for Increasing FPS on Laptop Windows 11
- Consider upgrading your RAM if possible; more memory can allow for better multitasking and performance in resource-intensive games.
- Regularly clean your laptop’s internals to prevent dust buildup, which can cause overheating and slow down performance.
- Use performance monitoring tools like MSI Afterburner to track your system’s usage and make data-driven adjustments.
- Keep your operating system updated to ensure you have the latest performance and security enhancements.
- Consider using an external cooling pad to keep your laptop’s temperature down during intensive tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my laptop’s FPS low?
Low FPS can result from outdated drivers, too many background applications, or improper settings. Updating drivers and optimizing settings can help.
Can increasing FPS harm my laptop?
If done correctly, increasing FPS shouldn’t harm your laptop. Just be cautious with any hardware changes, such as overclocking.
How do I know if my drivers are up to date?
You can check for updates through your graphics card manufacturer’s website or use the Windows Update feature.
Is Game Mode effective in boosting FPS?
Yes, Windows 11’s Game Mode can help maximize performance by allocating more resources to gaming tasks.
Will lowering graphics settings always increase FPS?
Generally, yes. Lowering graphics settings reduces the workload on your laptop, which can result in higher FPS.
Summary
- Update graphics drivers.
- Adjust power settings to “High Performance.”
- Close background applications.
- Optimize in-game settings.
- Enable Game Mode.
Conclusion
Boosting FPS on your Windows 11 laptop doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a few tweaks and adjustments, like updating your drivers and optimizing your settings, you can significantly enhance your gaming and video performance. The steps outlined in this guide are designed to help you get the most out of your laptop’s capabilities.
Remember, keeping your system updated and managing background processes are key. In addition, using the built-in Game Mode can make a noticeable difference. If you’re serious about gaming or smooth video playback, consider investing in additional hardware upgrades like more RAM or a cooling pad for even better results.
By making these changes, not only will you enjoy a smoother experience, but you’ll also extend the longevity of your device. So go ahead, give these tips a try, and watch your FPS rise as you dive into your favorite games or enjoy seamless video playback.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.