Windows 11 comes packed with features for gamers, including Game Mode, which helps your PC prioritize gaming performance. Enabling Game Mode can improve frame rates, reduce background interruptions, and ensure your system focuses resources on your games.
This guide will walk you through how to turn on Game Mode in Windows 11, explain what it does, and share tips for getting the best gaming experience.
What Is Game Mode in Windows 11?
Game Mode is a built-in feature in Windows 11 that optimizes your system for gaming. When enabled:
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CPU and GPU resources are prioritized for the game.
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Background tasks and notifications are minimized.
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Updates or app installations are paused temporarily.
Think of it as putting your PC into “gaming focus” mode, so your gameplay feels smoother and more consistent.
Why Enable Game Mode?
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Improve performance in games, especially on mid-range PCs.
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Reduce stuttering or lag caused by background processes.
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Prevent Windows Update or app installations from interrupting gameplay.
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Ensure better frame rate stability during intense gaming sessions.
Step 1: Open Windows 11 Settings
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Alternatively, click Start → Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Gaming Settings
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In Settings, click on Gaming from the left sidebar.
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You’ll see options like Xbox Game Bar, Captures, Game Mode, and Xbox Networking.
Step 3: Turn On Game Mode
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Click Game Mode in the sidebar.
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Toggle Game Mode to On.
✅ Windows 11 will now optimize your PC for gaming whenever a game is running.
Step 4: Optional – Configure Xbox Game Bar
The Xbox Game Bar works alongside Game Mode and provides:
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Screen recording and screenshots
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Performance monitoring
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Quick access to social and streaming features
Steps:
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Go to Settings > Gaming > Xbox Game Bar.
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Toggle Enable Xbox Game Bar to On.
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Use Windows + G to open the Game Bar while in-game.
Step 5: Optional – Adjust Captures Settings
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Navigate to Settings > Gaming > Captures.
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Set recording preferences, such as:
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Capture audio from game only
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Maximum recording length
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Video frame rate
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This ensures background recording doesn’t interfere with performance.
Step 6: Additional Tips to Improve Gaming Performance
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Update your GPU drivers for better optimization.
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Enable hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling in Settings → System → Display → Graphics.
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Close unnecessary background apps before starting a game.
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Plug in your laptop — Game Mode works best on full power.
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Adjust power settings: Go to Settings → System → Power & battery → Power mode, and select Best performance.
FAQs About Game Mode in Windows 11
Q1: Do all games benefit from Game Mode?
Not always. Most modern games see a slight improvement, but performance gains vary depending on your hardware and game type.
Q2: Does Game Mode increase FPS?
It can stabilize FPS and reduce stuttering, but the actual frame rate increase may be minor.
Q3: Can Game Mode interfere with streaming or recording software?
No, but some apps may need administrator permissions to work correctly alongside Game Mode.
Q4: Is Game Mode always on once enabled?
Yes. Windows automatically applies Game Mode whenever you launch a game.
Q5: Can I disable Game Mode temporarily?
Yes. Toggle it off in Settings > Gaming > Game Mode anytime.
Conclusion
Turning on Game Mode in Windows 11 is a simple way to ensure your system prioritizes games over background processes. By enabling Game Mode and optionally configuring the Xbox Game Bar and Captures settings, you can enjoy smoother gameplay and fewer interruptions.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive player, Game Mode helps your PC focus on what matters most — your game.