ALFRENSIA · WINDOWS GAMING GUIDE

1. Optimizations for windowed games

Microsoft says this Windows 11 feature improves the presentation path for compatible DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 games running in windowed or borderless-windowed mode. On supported systems, it can reduce frame latency and enable features such as variable refresh rate and Auto HDR.

To find it, open Settings → System → Display → Graphics, then look for the default graphics settings and the windowed-game optimization toggle. The exact options shown depend on your Windows build and hardware. Restart the game after changing the setting so you can compare results fairly.

Keep expectations realistic: this is a compatibility and presentation feature, not a promise of higher frame rates in every game. If a title already works well, changing it may make little or no visible difference.

2. Auto HDR: useful only with compatible hardware and games

Auto HDR can expand the brightness and colour presentation of supported DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games originally designed for standard dynamic range. It requires a compatible HDR display and supported Windows configuration. The result varies by game and monitor; HDR is not automatically better if the display is poorly configured or the game’s tone mapping looks wrong.

To check it, open Settings → System → Display → HDR, select the correct monitor if you use more than one, and review the HDR and Auto HDR options available. Microsoft’s HDR Calibration app can help set display levels on supported screens.

3. Make sure the game uses the intended graphics processor

On a desktop with one graphics card, this may be straightforward. On laptops and systems with both integrated and dedicated graphics, Windows can offer a per-app graphics preference. In Settings → System → Display → Graphics, select the game and open its options. Choose the high-performance GPU only when that is the intended setup and the option is available.

Also verify that your monitor is connected to the correct output, the display is set to its intended refresh rate, and the game is using the resolution and display mode you expect. These simple checks can explain problems that look like a performance issue.

4. Change one setting at a time

Keep a note of the original settings so you can roll back. Avoid third-party “FPS booster” utilities that promise universal gains or ask you to disable security features. Use Windows settings and official driver utilities first, and change advanced options only when you understand what they do.

5. Common questions

Will these Windows settings increase FPS?

Sometimes a setting can improve latency or compatibility in a specific configuration, but no single toggle guarantees higher FPS. Measure the result in your own game.

Should I turn Auto HDR on for every monitor?

No. It requires compatible HDR hardware and supported games. If the image looks worse or the display does not support HDR properly, leave it off.

Do I need the newest Windows build?

Use a supported, up-to-date Windows version, but check Microsoft’s release-health notes before troubleshooting a problem that began after an update. Feature availability can differ by build and device.

Where can I find official instructions?

Microsoft’s support pages below provide the current steps and compatibility notes. Read the requirements for your Windows version and display before changing settings.

Official sources and further reading

• Microsoft Support — Optimizations for windowed games in Windows 11
• Microsoft Support — Use Auto HDR for better gaming
• Microsoft Support — Calibrate an HDR display
• Microsoft Learn — Windows 11 release information