Windows 10 and Windows 11 include a “Game Mode” that automatically optimizes your PC to run games at the best performance possible when it detects a game in progress. It usually works well, but it can cause performance issues on some custom-built Windows PC setups. It’s easy to disable it, here’s what you need to do.
What is Game Mode
Game Mode is a special mode within Windows 10 and Windows 11 that gives your game processes priority over all others, with the idea that the game will run faster with fewer performance problems and provide the best and most stable framerate for your PC. It also temporarily prevents Windows Update from installing drivers or asking to restart your PC to install updates in the middle of a game. Microsoft introduced the gaming feature as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update in 2017.
In rare cases, it can cause performance issues. If you run into trouble, it can easily be turned off in Settings. Remember, the feature will only activate on Windows 10 or Windows 11 when it detects you’re playing a game. Otherwise, you can safely leave it enabled.
How to disable Game Mode on Windows 11
1. First, you need to open Windows Settings by using the keyboard shortcut Windows key + i, by searching for “Settings” in Windows Search, or by right clicking the Start menu and choosing “Settings.” 
2. Next, go to Gaming and select Game Mode from the options. 
3. Toggle the Game Mode switch to Off
When you are done, close Settings. If you want to re-enable Game Mode on Windows 10 or Windows 11, all you need to do is go to Settings > Game Mode and switch the “Game Mode” toggle to On.
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Do you see better game performance with Game Mode enabled on Windows 10 or Windows 11? Or do you think it’s just another useless Windows feature? Let us know in the comments below!