Blog

How to Fix Spotify High CPU Usage on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Spotify is a popular music streaming app, but sometimes it can cause high CPU usage on Windows 11. This can slow down your computer and affect performance. Fixing this issue can make your PC run smoother while enjoying your favorite tunes.

High CPU usage means your computer’s processor is working harder than necessary. This guide will walk you through simple steps to reduce Spotify’s impact on your system. No technical expertise is needed; just follow along carefully.

By troubleshooting step-by-step, you can identify the cause and fix it efficiently. Let’s get started and make Spotify run better on your Windows 11 device.

These tips apply to most Windows 11 computers and Spotify versions as of 2024.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into fixes, make sure of the following:

  • Check your internet connection: A slow or unstable connection can sometimes cause Spotify to behave oddly.
  • Update Spotify: Running the latest version ensures bug fixes and performance improvements.
  • Close other heavy programs: Multiple apps using CPU at once can make it seem like Spotify is the problem.
  • Restart your PC: A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches causing high CPU usage.

Step 1: Restart Spotify and Your Computer

The simplest solution is often the most effective. First, close Spotify completely:

  1. Right-click the Spotify icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
  2. Select Quit Spotify to close the app fully.
  3. Wait a few seconds, then open Spotify again.

If the problem persists, restart your Windows 11 PC. Rebooting clears temporary files and resets background processes that can cause high CPU usage.

Step 2: Disable Hardware Acceleration in Spotify

Hardware acceleration allows Spotify to use your computer’s GPU to improve performance. However, on some systems, it can cause high CPU usage instead.

To turn it off:

  1. Open Spotify.
  2. Click the profile icon in the top-right corner and choose Settings.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced Settings.
  4. Find the Hardware Acceleration option and toggle it off.
  5. Restart Spotify to apply the changes.

Disabling hardware acceleration can reduce CPU load if it was causing conflicts.

Step 3: Clear Spotify Cache

Spotify stores temporary files called cache to load songs faster. Over time, this cache can become large or corrupted, causing high CPU usage.

To clear the cache:

  1. Close Spotify completely.
  2. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  3. Type %appdata%Spotify and press Enter.
  4. Find the Cache folder inside the Spotify directory.
  5. Delete the entire Cache folder.
  6. Reopen Spotify; the cache will rebuild automatically.

Clearing cache frees up disk space and can resolve performance issues.

Step 4: Adjust Spotify’s Streaming Quality

Higher streaming quality uses more CPU resources to process audio. Lowering quality reduces CPU demand.

To change streaming quality:

  1. Open Spotify and go to Settings.
  2. Scroll to Audio Quality.
  3. Change Streaming Quality to Low or Normal.

This step is especially helpful if your computer has limited processing power.

Step 5: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated operating systems and drivers can cause compatibility issues with apps like Spotify. Keeping them updated ensures smooth interaction.

To update Windows 11:

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

To update drivers, especially your graphics and audio drivers, visit your PC manufacturer’s website or use Windows Device Manager.

Step 6: Reinstall Spotify

If the problem continues, reinstalling Spotify can fix corrupted files or settings.

Follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find Spotify, click the three dots next to it, and choose Uninstall.
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Download the latest Spotify version from the official website and install it.

A fresh install often solves persistent CPU usage issues.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If you are comfortable with advanced troubleshooting, consider these options:

  • Use the Spotify Web Player: Instead of the desktop app, use the web player in your browser to reduce CPU load.
  • Limit Background Processes: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end unnecessary processes consuming CPU.
  • Check for Malware: Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or trusted antivirus software to rule out malware causing high CPU usage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Spotify use so much CPU on Windows 11?

Spotify may use high CPU due to hardware acceleration conflicts, corrupted cache, outdated software, or other background processes interfering.

Can closing Spotify fix high CPU usage?

Yes, fully quitting Spotify and restarting it can temporarily fix high CPU usage caused by temporary glitches.

Does lowering audio quality affect music experience?

Lowering audio quality reduces CPU load but may slightly reduce sound clarity. Most users find normal quality acceptable for everyday listening.

Is it safe to delete Spotify cache?

Yes, deleting the cache only removes temporary files. Spotify will recreate the cache automatically without affecting your playlists or settings.

Will reinstalling Spotify delete my playlists?

No, your playlists and saved music are stored in the cloud linked to your account and will remain intact after reinstalling.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all steps and Spotify still uses high CPU on Windows 11, consider these final options:

  • Contact Spotify Support: Visit the official support page for personalized help.
  • Use Spotify Web Player: Switch to the web-based player at open.spotify.com to avoid app-related issues.
  • Check for Windows 11 System Updates: Occasionally, Microsoft releases patches targeting app performance problems.
  • Consider System Restore: If the problem started recently, restoring Windows to an earlier point may help.

Conclusion

High CPU usage by Spotify on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually fixable with simple troubleshooting. Start by restarting Spotify and your PC, disabling hardware acceleration, and clearing cache. Adjusting streaming quality and updating your system further helps reduce CPU load.

If needed, reinstall Spotify or explore alternative methods like the web player. Always keep your software updated and monitor background tasks to maintain good performance.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy Spotify smoothly without slowing down your Windows 11 computer.

Leave a Reply