Best Windows 11 Settings for Better Performance
Windows 11 comes with modern features and visual effects, but these can impact performance, especially on older or low-end PCs. By adjusting the right settings, you can significantly improve speed, responsiveness, and overall system stability.
In this guide, you’ll learn the best Windows 11 settings for better performance, with simple tweaks that don’t require advanced technical skills.
Why Windows 11 May Feel Slow
Performance issues often occur because Windows 11 prioritizes visual experience over efficiency. Background apps, startup programs, and system effects can consume CPU, RAM, and disk resources.
If your system already feels slow, you may want to start here:
How to Fix Windows 11 Slow Performance
1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps
Startup apps are one of the most common causes of slow performance.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Open the Startup tab
- Disable apps you don’t need at startup
This reduces boot time and lowers CPU and memory usage.
Related guide: Why Is Windows 11 So Slow on Startup?
2. Adjust Visual Effects for Best Performance
Windows animations and transparency effects consume system resources. Disabling them can improve responsiveness.
- Open Settings → System → About
- Click Advanced system settings
- Select Settings under Performance
- Choose Adjust for best performance
3. Set Power Mode to Balanced or Best Performance
Power settings can significantly affect performance.
- Open Settings → System → Power & battery
- Select Balanced or Best performance
Avoid power saver mode if performance is your priority.
4. Limit Background Apps
Many apps continue running in the background even when not in use.
- Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps
- Select an app → Advanced options
- Set background app permissions to Never
5. Monitor CPU, RAM, and Disk Usage
Before making deeper changes, it’s important to identify which resource is causing slowdowns.
Use this step-by-step guide:
How to Check CPU, RAM, and Disk Usage in Windows 11
6. Optimize Disk Usage
High disk usage can slow down the entire system.
- Disable unnecessary startup services
- Pause Windows Search indexing if needed
- Upgrade from HDD to SSD for major improvements
Detailed fix: Windows 11 Disk Usage 100% – How to Fix
7. Reduce High CPU Usage
If CPU usage stays high even with light tasks, performance will suffer.
Follow this complete tutorial: Windows 11 High CPU Usage – How to Fix
8. Control RAM Usage
Limited RAM can slow multitasking and cause app crashes.
Learn how to manage memory usage: Windows 11 Uses Too Much RAM – Fix High Memory Usage
9. Optimize Browser Performance
Web browsers are often responsible for high resource usage.
- Limit open tabs
- Disable unnecessary extensions
- Keep your browser updated
Chrome users can read: How to Fix Google Chrome High RAM Usage
10. Prevent Overheating Issues
Overheating causes thermal throttling, which reduces performance.
Make sure your device stays cool by following this guide: Windows 11 Overheating Issues – Causes and Fixes
Final Thoughts
Optimizing Windows 11 settings doesn’t require advanced tools or reinstalling the system. By disabling unnecessary features, monitoring system usage, and adjusting performance-focused settings, you can enjoy a faster and smoother experience.
For deeper troubleshooting, explore our performance guides: