Windows 11 can show frames per second in supported games through Xbox Game Bar, and many games also include their own FPS counter. Use the game’s built-in counter when available because it usually has the least setup.
- Launch the game you want to measure.
- Press Windows+G to open Xbox Game Bar.
- Open the Performance widget.
- Enable or view the FPS metric and pin the widget if you want it visible while playing.
- Return to the game and watch FPS during representative gameplay rather than only on a menu screen.
Game-specific counters
Steam, NVIDIA, AMD, and individual games can provide FPS overlays. Avoid running several overlays at once when troubleshooting performance because they can conflict or add overhead.
Average versus lows
A high average FPS can still feel stuttery if frame times are inconsistent. For deeper analysis, consider 1% lows or frame-time graphs from a reputable performance tool.
Refresh rate is different
A 144 Hz monitor can refresh up to 144 times per second, while FPS describes frames produced by the game. The two values are related but not identical.
Performance comparisons
Use the same resolution, graphics settings, scene, power mode, and background workload when comparing results before and after a change.
Frame-rate caps
V-Sync, game frame caps, driver settings, and laptop power modes can intentionally limit FPS. A stable capped result may be expected rather than evidence that the GPU is underperforming.
Use a repeatable test scene
For meaningful before-and-after comparisons, measure the same level, route, benchmark, or saved-game sequence. Looking at FPS in unrelated scenes can make a graphics-setting change appear better or worse simply because the workload changed.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
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