- The new Xbox Mode on Windows 11 features notable performance improvements across many games.
- FPS gains were seen in both AMD and Nvidia GPUs, especially in CPU-bound titles like CS2 and RE Requiem.
- The mode improves FPS and 1% lows by killing desktop and unnecessary background apps.
Microsoft has finally realized that SteamOS is quickly gaining on its Windows 11 ecosystem by becoming a better choice for gamers. This pushed the conglomerate to begin its Project K2 initiative, which aims to significantly improve the OS for gamers and users alike.
The company is also officially rolling out its Xbox mode for Windows 11 PCs, which turns your device into an ‘Xbox full-screen experience.’
New testing now reveals that it also delivers clear performance improvements across Nvidia and AMD GPUs and improves experience across multiple titles.
Why it matters: Besides the performance improvements, the Xbox Mode for Windows 11 devices is a handy way for Microsoft to get gamers used to its Xbox interface. The streamlined full-screen and better controller support also help set the mood for gaming.
YouTuber Ancient Gameplays performed the Xbox Mode analysis across 11 titles on the RX 9070 and RTX 4070 Ti Super, using the AMD Ryzen 9 9700X CPU. Tested games included CS2, Resident Evil Requiem, Crimson Desert, Battlefield 6, Pragmata, and more.
The test reveals that the RTX 4070 Ti saw 15% better 1% lows at 1080p and 25% better 1% lows at 1440p, with 7% better averages overall with Xbox Mode enabled.
The average performance improvements were less obvious with the RX 9070, only seeing 2% improvement overall at 1080p. There was virtually no meaningful uplift at 1440p.
The biggest performance uplifts were in CPU-bound games like CS2 and Resident Evil Requiem.
CS2 sees 14% higher average FPS at 1080p, 2x better 1% lows, and 23% higher average FPS at 1440p with 2.5x better 1% lows on the 4070 Ti Super. The results were less meaningful on the RX 9070.
Similarly, Resident Evil Requiem saw 22% higher 1% lows at 1080p on the 4070 Ti Super and 12% higher 1% lows at 1080p on the RX 9070. The difference is much lower in 1440p resolution.
Regardless, the Windows 11 Xbox Mode achieves these improvements by killing desktop and unnecessary background tasks. It also reduces controller latency and lets you launch games from any third-party stores.
Do you think the new Xbox mode for Windows 11 PCs is something you’d personally use? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
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Shameer Sarfaraz has previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, he loves to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games. Besides his passion for breaking news stories, Shahmeer loves spending his leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited his articles.
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