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:
- Open Settings
- Go to System → Power & Battery
- Under Power Mode, choose:
Best Performance
In Windows 10:
- Open Control Panel
- Go to:
Hardware and Sound → Power Options
- 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
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Open Startup tab
- 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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