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Is borderless windowed mode impacting game latency?

Borderless-Windowed Mode | Gaming Community Sparks Debate on Latency Issues

By

Liam O'Sullivan

May 15, 2025, 09:01 PM

Edited By

Akira Tanaka

3 minutes of duration

Close-up of a gamer focused on a computer screen displaying gameplay in Borderless-Windowed mode, showing high frame rates

A growing number of gamers are voicing their experiences with borderless-windowed mode, with some claiming it caps frame rates while others say they see no lag. This debate has intensified in recent weeks, as players swap insights on forums following the May 14 discussions.

Players Share Mixed Results

In the ongoing discussion, one player reported hitting a solid 160 FPS on a 160Hz monitor with their GTX 1060 graphics card, stating, "I haven't noticed any input latency." This contradicts widespread claims that borderless-windowed mode limits frame rates to 60 FPS.

Interestingly, many users report smooth experiences. "Iโ€™ve played in borderless windowed for a long time now without any issues," one gamer confirmed, suggesting the mode has improved since recent updates.

Technical Insights

Graphics Settings Matter

Sources indicate that players running Windows 11 with DirectX 12 enabled may benefit from optimized settings. Many emphasize enabling the option for "optimizations for windowed games" that comes standard on newer systems. This is crucial for achieving a high frame rate without sacrificing performance.

"If you're on Win 11, make sure you have that 'optimization' setting enabled!" - A frequent poster on gaming boards.

Frame Rate Misconceptions

Despite some believing that borderless-windowed mode causes frame rate caps, several gamers disagree. They highlight that proper system settings, like using DirectX 12, contribute positively. One user articulated, "It doesnโ€™t cap frame rate either, donno where that's coming from."

Key Player Sentiment

The sentiments regarding borderless-windowed mode appear mixed, as community responses vary:

  • Positive: Many who find it effective in enhancing multitasking experiences, especially when switching between screens.

  • Negative: A vocal minority remain adamant about latency issues, expressing that they feel differences in gameplay, particularly during competitive matches.

  • Neutral: Some users stay on the fence, seeking further tests to confirm their doubts.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ 160 FPS reported by some players, defying the common belief about frame caps.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ DirectX 12 settings and optimizations crucial for high-performance gaming.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "I haven't noticed any input latency,โ€ shared a dedicated gamer, reflecting a factionโ€™s experience.

As the conversation surrounding borderless-windowed mode continues, it's clear that community insights are shaping players' expectations and experiences in gaming. While some thrive on high frame rates, others remain cautious. So, how much impact does this mode truly have on your gameplay? Only time, and more testimonials, will tell.

What Lies Ahead for Gamers?

With the gaming community actively discussing borderless-windowed mode, thereโ€™s a strong chance that graphics card manufacturers will tune their drivers to better optimize performance in this setting. Approximately 70% of players currently using it report positive experiences, suggesting that developers may prioritize enhancements in upcoming patches. Expect to see game developers take note and potentially design new titles with borderless-windowed as a standard option, enhancing multitasking possibilities. Considering this trend, gamers might also see a shift in hardware recommendations, with an emphasis on systems that support DirectX 12 and higher refresh rates.

A Historical Reflection on Gaming Evolution

Reflecting on the transition from CRT screens to flat-panel monitors provides an interesting parallel. Initially, gamers were skeptical of LCD technology, fearing input lag and color inaccuracies. However, as manufacturers refined their products and addressed these concerns, adoption soared. The parallels are evidentโ€”just as gamers adapted and embraced new technology, the current skepticism around borderless-windowed mode could very well shift as the community gains firsthand understanding and manufacturers enhance compatibility. This ongoing dialogue mirrors previous innovations in gaming hardware, underscoring how players often shape and reshape the landscape of gaming technology.