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How to Display FPS in Games Like a Pro

Knowing your game’s frames per second (FPS) allows you to monitor and optimize your PC’s performance. Displaying FPS in-game can help you pinpoint hardware bottlenecks, adjust graphics settings for higher FPS, and have a smoother gaming experience.

Why Display FPS?

Higher FPS translates to smoother visuals and lower input lag. For fast-paced competitive games, high and stable FPS gives you an edge over other players. Monitoring FPS helps you:

  • Identify hardware bottlenecks limiting FPS
  • Fine-tune graphics settings for optimal performance
  • Ensure frame rates don’t drop during intense scenes
  • Benchmark GPU/CPU upgrades for tangible improvements

Aim for 60+ FPS in most games. Higher is better for competitive titles.

Built-In FPS Counters

Many games and game launchers have built-in FPS counters:

  • Steam – Enable FPS counter in Settings > In-Game. Shows FPS, frame times, and more.
  • Origin/EA App – Turn on FPS counter in Settings. Shows FPS and frame times.
  • Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10/11) – Open with Win+G, enable performance tracking.
  • GeForce Experience – Enable in-game overlay and toggle on FPS counter.
  • Radeon Software – Enable Radeon overlay and toggle metrics like FPS, frame times.

If a game lacks an FPS counter, use third-party software like Fraps, CapFrameX, or MSI Afterburner.

Optimizing FPS

Follow these tips to boost FPS:

  • Lower graphics settings – Shadows, textures, draw distance hurt FPS most.
  • Install latest GPU drivers – Fixes bugs, optimizes performance.
  • Close background apps – Browsers, video players drain resources.
  • Disable Vsync – Caps FPS to monitor refresh rate.
  • Use resolution scaling – Renders game at lower res, upscales output.
  • Cap frame rate 2-3 FPS below refresh rate – Prevents screen tearing.

Pro Tips

  • Pin the FPS counter on screen while gaming for easy monitoring.
  • Take screenshots to compare FPS across graphics settings.
  • Monitor frame times not just FPS average for smooth gameplay.
  • Set FPS cap 3-5 frames below display’s refresh rate to reduce input lag.
  • For streaming, use a second PC or GPU encoder to avoid FPS drops while encoding video.

Conclusion

Checking your in-game FPS is crucial to get the most out of your PC’s hardware. Whether you want higher frame rates or to troubleshoot performance issues, displaying FPS counters allows you to accurately benchmark your setup. Utilize built-in game options or third-party software to monitor FPS and fine-tune your gaming rig.

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