Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsTo enable or disable Game Mode, open Settings > Gaming > Game Mode and switch it on or off. It is a built-in Windows setting intended to optimize performance during gaming, but Microsoft does not promise a specific FPS increase for every game or PC.
How to enable or disable Game Mode
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Select Gaming.
- Select Game Mode.
- Set the Game Mode switch to On or Off.
The setting is part of Windows, so you do not need to install or buy a separate product. If the menu labels differ on your Windows release, search Settings for Game Mode. Microsoft describes the Gaming settings area as including Game Mode to optimize system performance during gaming sessions (Microsoft Gaming settings; Microsoft Windows support).
Does Game Mode improve FPS?
Game Mode is intended to optimize gaming performance, but that does not guarantee higher frame rates. Microsoft’s guidance does not give a universal FPS gain, test protocol, or result that applies to every combination of PC hardware and game. If a game already runs well, switching the setting may not produce a noticeable change.
If you are troubleshooting a slowdown, treat Game Mode as one setting to check rather than a fix for every cause. Microsoft’s performance guidance points to several possible contributors, including background applications, storage, software, and hardware limitations (Microsoft: Tips to improve PC performance in Windows).
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Windows and Android.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection)
- Hall Effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings.
- Extra R4/L4 bumpers. Custom button mapping without using software. Turbo function.
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light but tactile.
Separate settings that can affect gaming
Optimizations for windowed games in Windows 11
This is a different setting from Game Mode. It applies to compatible DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 games running in windowed or borderless-windowed mode. Microsoft says it can move compatible games from the legacy blt presentation model to flip model to reduce frame latency, and enable features such as Auto HDR and variable refresh rate on supported displays.
- Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
- Find Optimizations for windowed games and change the setting.
- Restart the game for the change to take effect.
Availability of the related display features depends on compatible games and supported displays (Microsoft: Optimizations for windowed games in Windows 11).
Rank #2
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Power mode on a laptop
Power mode is also separate from Game Mode, and changing it is not a prerequisite for using Game Mode. On a laptop, open Settings > System > Power & battery > Power mode and choose Best performance if you want Windows to prioritize performance. Microsoft notes that this can use more power and drain the battery faster (Microsoft: Change the power mode for your Windows PC).
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
Rank #3
- Universal Multi-Platform Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Windows PC, Switch/Switch 2, Android, and iOS via USB-C, 2.4G wireless (1000Hz), or Bluetooth (125Hz). Note: Not compatible with X-box, Play-Station, Luna, or GeForce
- Ultra-Quiet Silent Gaming: Silicone-damped buttons for whisper-quiet operation. Perfect for late-night gaming without disturbing family or roommates. All buttons redesigned for silent play—ABXY, D-pad, triggers, and function keys
- Hall Effect Precision Technology: Drift-free 11-bit Hall Effect joysticks with 1000Hz polling rate in wired/2.4G modes for ultra-fast competitive response. Bluetooth mode offers 125Hz for mobile gaming. Long-lasting durability guaranteed
- Advanced Trigger & Programmability: Dual-stage adjustable triggers with 2+2 rumble motors for realistic feedback. Two top-mounted programmable buttons avoid accidental presses—solving common back-paddle issues for competitive advantage
- Ergonomic Comfort & Endurance: Sweat-resistant silicone grip for marathon sessions. 1000mAh rechargeable battery for extended play. Upgraded 8-way D-pad with dome switches delivers precise diagonal control for fighting and retro games
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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