How to Set Windows in Best Performance Mode (Complete Optimization Guide)



 If your PC feels slow, lags during multitasking, or struggles with everyday tasks, switching Windows to Best Performance mode can boost speed without upgrading hardware.

In this guide, you'll learn how to set Windows in Best Performance mode, what it does, and how to optimize your PC for maximum speed.

What Is Best Performance Mode in Windows?

Best Performance mode is a Windows setting that prioritizes speed over appearance and power savings.

When enabled, Windows reduces resource-heavy visual effects and can improve:

  • System responsiveness
  • App loading speed
  • Gaming performance
  • Multitasking
  • Low-end PC performance

It is especially useful for older computers or systems with limited RAM.

Method 1: Set Windows Visual Effects to Best Performance

This is the most common way to put Windows into Best Performance mode.

Step 1: Open Advanced System Settings

Press:

Windows + R

Type:

sysdm.cpl

Press Enter.

Step 2: Open Performance Settings

  • Click the Advanced tab
  • Under Performance, click Settings

Step 3: Select Best Performance

Choose:

Adjust for best performance

This disables visual effects like:

  • Window animations
  • Fade effects
  • Shadows
  • Transparency
  • Smooth scrolling effects

Click Apply, then OK.

What Happens After Enabling It?

Windows may look simpler, but it often feels faster immediately.


Method 2: Change Power Mode to Best Performance

Windows also has a power mode called Best Performance.

In Windows 11:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to System → Power & Battery
  3. Under Power Mode, choose:

Best Performance

In Windows 10:

  1. Open Control Panel
  2. Go to:

Hardware and Sound → Power Options

  1. Select:

High Performance

Some systems may also show:

Ultimate Performance

If available, use it for maximum speed.

How to Enable Ultimate Performance Mode

Some PCs hide this option by default.

Enable It Using Command Prompt

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

powercfg -duplicatescheme e9a42b02-d5df-448d-aa00-03f14749eb61

Then go back to Power Options and select Ultimate Performance.

Method 3: Disable Startup Programs

Performance mode works even better if you reduce startup load.

Disable Startup Apps

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
  2. Open Startup tab
  3. Disable unnecessary apps

Examples:

  • Discord
  • Spotify
  • Adobe updaters
  • Game launchers

This can improve boot speed significantly.

Method 4: Turn Off Background Apps

Background processes consume CPU, RAM, and battery.

Go to:

Settings → Apps → Installed Apps

Disable background permissions for apps you don't need.

Method 5: Optimize for Performance in File Explorer

You can reduce visual load further.

Disable Transparency Effects

Go to:

Settings → Personalization → Colors

Turn off:

  • Transparency Effects

This saves small but useful resources.

Method 6: Use Storage Sense for Better Performance

Low disk space can slow Windows.

Enable:

Settings → System → Storage → Storage Sense

This removes junk files automatically.

Extra Tweaks for Maximum Performance

For even better results:

Keep Drivers Updated

Update:

  • Graphics drivers
  • Chipset drivers
  • Storage drivers

Scan for Malware

Malware can ruin performance.

Run Windows Security scans regularly.

Upgrade to SSD

If using an HDD, upgrading to SSD may be the biggest performance improvement possible.

Pros of Best Performance Mode

Benefits include:

  • Faster Windows response
  • Lower RAM usage
  • Reduced CPU overhead
  • Smoother performance on older PCs
  • Better speed for productivity tasks

Downsides to Know

You may notice:

  • Less visual polish
  • Basic-looking interface
  • Higher battery usage on laptops (using High or Ultimate Performance)

If battery life matters, Balanced mode may be better when mobile.

Is Best Performance Mode Good for Gaming?

Yes, especially on weaker hardware.

It may help reduce:

  • Background resource use
  • Input lag
  • Frame drops

Though GPU settings still matter more for gaming performance.

How to Revert Back to Normal

If you want the default look back:

Restore Visual Effects

Go to Performance Settings and choose:

Let Windows choose what's best for my computer

or

Adjust for best appearance

Restore Balanced Power Mode

Go to Power Options and switch back to:

Balanced

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Best Performance mode make a PC faster?

Yes, especially on low-spec or older systems.

Is High Performance the same as Best Performance?

They're related but separate.

  • Visual Effects Best Performance reduces interface effects
  • Power Best Performance increases system performance priority

Using both works best.

Does Best Performance drain battery?

Yes, especially on laptops.

Is Ultimate Performance safe?

Yes, but it's mainly useful for desktops and workstations.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to set Windows in Best Performance mode is one of the easiest ways to speed up your PC for free.

For best results:

  • Enable Adjust for Best Performance
  • Use High or Ultimate Performance power plans
  • Disable startup apps
  • Reduce background processes
  • Keep Windows optimized

Combined, these tweaks can make even older computers feel much faster.

Conclusion

You don't always need expensive upgrades to improve PC speed. Switching Windows into Best Performance mode can reduce lag, improve responsiveness, and help your system run smoother.

Try these settings today and give your Windows PC a noticeable speed boost.

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