If you're wondering how many frames per second your PC is generating while gaming , you've come to the right place. Measuring FPS (Frames Per Second) in Windows is essential for understanding your computer's actual performance. Whether you're new to gaming or a seasoned veteran, knowing this metric helps you detect performance drops, optimize graphics, or simply ensure your gaming experience is as smooth as possible.
In this guide, we'll explain all the available ways to view FPS on your Windows PC . From built-in operating system options to third-party programs and in-game settings, we'll go over each method in detail so you can choose the one that best suits your needs, hardware, and preferences.
What is FPS and why is it important?
FPS (frames per second) is the number of images generated per second in a game . The higher this number, the smoother the movement will appear on screen. In genres like shooters, competitive MOBA games, or even fast-paced action titles, a high FPS can be the difference between winning and losing.
A low or unstable frame rate, on the other hand, can result in stuttering, lag, or even unexpected crashes. Furthermore, a sudden drop in FPS can be a sign that something is wrong with your computer : overheating, outdated drivers, or poor software optimization, among other things.
View FPS on Windows without installing anything: Xbox Game Bar
One of the best things about Windows 10 or Windows 11 is that you don't need to install any external programs to check your FPS. The operating system itself includes a tool called Xbox Game Bar , designed to enhance the gaming experience, which includes a plugin for monitoring performance in real time.
To activate the Xbox Game Bar:
- Run the game you want to analyze.
- press the combination Windows + G.
- An overlay with multiple widgets will open.
- Click on the one of performance where you will see CPU, RAM, GPU and also FPS.
The first time you use it, it may ask for additional permissions . Click "Request access" to grant it access to system data. If that doesn't work, you can manually add your user to the "Performance Log Users" group from the Teams Management panel.
Once configured correctly, you'll see the FPS on screen while you play. If you want to pin this information so it remains constantly visible even when you close the Game Bar, tap the pin icon that appears in the widget window.
Configure Xbox Game Bar to customize the display
The FPS counter is easily customizable . Just hover your cursor over the performance widget window to find the settings icon (gear). There you can:
- Change the position of the graph on the screen.
- Adjust the transparency level.
- Select the color of the data.
- Compact or expand the view to show more or fewer metrics.
Additionally, if the Game Bar ever fails to open correctly , you can reset it from the Windows app settings. Simply find Xbox Game Bar in the list, click on "Advanced options," and then click "Reset."
Measure FPS with third-party software
If you're looking for something more advanced or prefer external tools, there are several popular programs for viewing FPS in Windows while gaming. These offer more technical details than Game Bar and, in some cases, even allow for video recording, overclocking, or more in-depth performance analysis.
Steam
If you frequently play on this platform, you can display your FPS directly from the Steam client settings . To enable it:
- Open Steam and go to Parameters.
- select the section In the game.
- Activate the option In-game FPS counter and choose which corner of the screen you want it to appear in.
The counter is quite small but unobtrusive and doesn't interfere with gameplay. It's ideal for basic monitoring without installing anything additional.
NVIDIA GeForce Experience
If your PC has an NVIDIA GPU, you can use GeForce Experience to display your FPS. You just need to have your drivers updated and follow these steps:
- Open GeForce Experience and press Alt + Z to open the overlay.
- Click on HUD Design and select Unlimited.
- Choose the position of the FPS counter and whether to include additional metrics such as temperature or GPU usage.
To quickly turn the timer on or off in games, you can use the Alt + R combination.
MSI Afterburner + Rivatuner Statistics Server (RTSS)
One of the most comprehensive tools for performance enthusiasts is MSI Afterburner along with Rivatuner Statistics Server (RTSS) . This combination not only allows you to view FPS, but also to overclock, adjust power profiles, and log performance data.
- Install both programs from the official MSI website.
- Open Afterburner, go to Settings and go to the tab Monitoring.
- Active frame rate and brand Show on screen.
RTSS lets you fully customize the data displayed on screen, including its style, size, colors, and placement. It's ideal for those looking for precision and complete control.
Fraps
Fraps is one of the oldest options. Although its development has slowed, it remains functional. Its free version allows you to measure FPS and take screenshots. To access video recording and other features, you need to purchase a license.
It greatly simplifies the process: download, install, run, and you're already measuring FPS . Although more limited compared to other current options, it's useful for users who just want the data without complications.
AMD Radeon Software (Adrenalin Edition)
AMD graphics card users also have their own solution. Radeon software allows them to display a HUD with performance and FPS directly from their settings panel.
To activate it:
- Open AMD Radeon Software.
- Go to the tab Unlimited and look for the option Metric Overlay.
- Turn it on to display a dashboard with FPS, temperature, GPU usage, and more during your games.
FPS counter from the games themselves
Another common and effective way to check performance is through the game's own settings . Many modern titles include this feature natively, without the need for additional software. You can also learn how to adjust your monitor's refresh rate to improve FPS in Windows.
It's usually found within the graphics or performance settings . In other cases, it's activated with key combinations like Ctrl + F or in internal command consoles, such as those found in games based on engines like Source, Unreal, or Unity.
This method is very practical as it displays data in real time and can offer more accurate figures than some external programs. Furthermore, some games allow you to record your FPS history for future comparisons.
Recommendations based on game type and performance
Ideal FPSs vary depending on genre and competitive demands:
- 30FPS: acceptable for narrative or slow-paced games.
- 60FPS: current standard for most titles.
- 120 FPS or more: recommended in competitive games where fluidity is key.
It's important to consider your monitor's refresh rate. A 60Hz monitor won't deliver more than 60 FPS, but a 144Hz display will allow for greater fluidity.
What to do if your FPS is low?
If you find that your PC isn't performing as well as it should when testing, there are several things you can do to improve performance:
- Reduce graphic quality adjusting shadows, anti-aliasing or draw distance.
- Update GPU drivers.
- Improve ventilation of the equipment to avoid overheating.
- Close background processes that consume unnecessary resources.
If none of these steps work, it may be time to consider a hardware upgrade, such as more RAM, a more powerful processor, or a newer graphics card, to get a better gaming experience.
