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How to Fix NVIDIA G-Sync Not Working in Windowed Mode on Windows 11

NVIDIA G-Sync is a technology designed to eliminate screen tearing and provide smooth gameplay. However, sometimes users face issues with G-Sync not working in windowed mode on Windows 11. This can affect gaming and overall visual performance when not playing in full screen.

Fixing this problem usually involves checking settings, updating drivers, or adjusting how your display and applications interact with G-Sync. Fortunately, these steps are straightforward and don’t require advanced technical knowledge.

In this guide, we will walk through simple to more detailed solutions to get G-Sync working properly in windowed mode on your Windows 11 PC. Follow each step carefully for the best results.

Let’s begin by understanding some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting process.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure your monitor supports G-Sync: Not all monitors are G-Sync compatible. Double-check your monitor specifications.
  • Use a compatible connection: G-Sync works best with DisplayPort. HDMI support is limited depending on your monitor model.
  • Update Windows 11: Having the latest Windows updates can fix compatibility issues.
  • Update NVIDIA drivers: Always use the latest NVIDIA graphics drivers from the official NVIDIA website.
  • Check if G-Sync is enabled: Sometimes G-Sync is disabled after updates or driver changes.

Step 1: Verify G-Sync is Enabled in NVIDIA Control Panel

Before changing anything else, make sure G-Sync is activated in your NVIDIA Control Panel. This controls how G-Sync functions on your system.

  1. Right-click on your desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
  2. In the left menu, click on Display to expand the options.
  3. Select Set up G-Sync.
  4. Check the box labeled Enable G-Sync, G-Sync Compatible.
  5. Choose Enable for windowed and full screen mode. This is critical because G-Sync will only work if this option is selected for windowed mode.
  6. Click Apply to save your changes.

Why this matters: If G-Sync is only enabled for full screen mode, it will not work when you run games or applications in windowed or borderless window mode.

Step 2: Check Your Game or Application Display Mode

Many games allow different display modes: full screen, windowed, and borderless windowed. For G-Sync to work in windowed mode, the game must be set correctly.

  • Open your game’s video or display settings.
  • Look for the display mode options.
  • Select Borderless Window or Windowed mode (depending on the game).
  • Avoid using “Windowed (Fullscreen)” or exclusive full-screen if you want G-Sync to work in windowed mode.

Why this is important: Not all windowed modes behave the same. Borderless window mode often works best with G-Sync enabled for both windowed and full screen.

Step 3: Update Your NVIDIA Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause G-Sync problems. Updating drivers ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements.

  1. Visit the official NVIDIA Driver Download page.
  2. Enter your graphics card details and Windows 11 version.
  3. Download the latest Game Ready Driver or Studio Driver.
  4. Run the installer and follow the prompts.
  5. Choose Custom Installation and check Perform clean installation to reset previous settings.
  6. Restart your PC after installation.

Why update drivers? NVIDIA regularly improves G-Sync support and fixes bugs, so staying updated can resolve many issues.

Step 4: Adjust Windows 11 Graphics Settings

Windows 11 has its own graphics settings that can interfere with G-Sync performance.

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Display > Graphics settings.
  3. Find your game or application in the list. If it’s not there, click Browse and add it manually.
  4. Select the app and click Options.
  5. Choose High Performance to ensure the NVIDIA GPU is used instead of integrated graphics.
  6. Click Save.

Why this helps: Running your game through the NVIDIA GPU ensures G-Sync can be applied correctly, avoiding conflicts with integrated graphics.

Step 5: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations for the Game

Windows fullscreen optimizations can sometimes conflict with G-Sync in windowed mode.

  1. Right-click your game’s shortcut or executable file and select Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check the box for Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.

Why disable this? Disabling fullscreen optimizations can prevent Windows from interfering with the display mode, allowing G-Sync to function properly.

Alternative Method: Use NVIDIA Profile Inspector (Advanced)

If the above steps don’t work, NVIDIA Profile Inspector can allow you to tweak G-Sync settings per application.

  • Download NVIDIA Profile Inspector from a trusted source.
  • Open the tool and select your game profile.
  • Look for G-Sync related settings and enforce windowed mode support.
  • Save changes and test your game.

Note: This method is for advanced users comfortable with modifying driver profiles.

FAQs

Why is G-Sync not working in windowed mode but works in full screen?

G-Sync needs to be enabled specifically for windowed mode in the NVIDIA Control Panel. If it’s only set for full screen, it won’t work in windowed or borderless window mode.

Can I use G-Sync with HDMI?

Some monitors support G-Sync over HDMI, but DisplayPort is the preferred and most reliable connection for G-Sync functionality.

Does Windows 11 affect G-Sync performance?

Windows 11 manages graphics differently than previous versions. Ensuring settings like disabling fullscreen optimizations and selecting the correct GPU helps maintain G-Sync performance.

Is borderless window mode better for G-Sync than regular windowed mode?

Borderless window mode often provides better compatibility with G-Sync because it behaves more like full screen while still allowing easy multitasking.

How do I check if G-Sync is working?

You can enable the G-Sync indicator in the NVIDIA Control Panel under “Display” > “G-Sync Indicator.” When G-Sync is active, you will see an on-screen notification.

When Nothing Works: Final Options

If after following all the steps G-Sync still does not work in windowed mode, consider the following:

  • Contact NVIDIA Support: They can provide personalized troubleshooting for your hardware and software setup.
  • Check your monitor manufacturer’s website: Firmware updates or specific settings might be required.
  • Try different games/applications: Some may have unique compatibility issues with G-Sync.
  • Reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, system corruption can impact G-Sync functionality.

Visit the official NVIDIA G-Sync page for the latest support and updates: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/geforce/technologies/g-sync/

Conclusion

Getting NVIDIA G-Sync to work in windowed mode on Windows 11 involves ensuring the correct settings in the NVIDIA Control Panel and your games, keeping your drivers and Windows updated, and configuring Windows graphics preferences. Disabling fullscreen optimizations and using the right connection type also improve compatibility.

By following these simple and detailed steps, most users can enjoy smooth, tear-free gameplay regardless of their display mode. Remember to test after each change to identify which step resolves your issue.

With patience and the right configuration, G-Sync can work flawlessly in windowed mode, enhancing your overall gaming experience.

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