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The Sims 4 is a popular life simulation game enjoyed by millions around the world. However, some players on Windows 11 experience stuttering or performance issues that disrupt gameplay. This guide will help you quickly fix these problems and get back to smooth gaming.

Stuttering can be caused by various factors, including software conflicts, outdated drivers, or system settings. Understanding simple troubleshooting steps can often resolve these issues without needing advanced technical skills.

We will walk you through easy-to-follow methods, starting with basic checks and moving to more advanced solutions. Each step is explained clearly to ensure you can follow along comfortably.

By the end of this guide, you should see a noticeable improvement in your game’s performance on Windows 11.

Quick Note Before You Begin

• Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Microsoft regularly releases patches that improve system performance.
• Confirm that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for The Sims 4.
• Close any unnecessary background applications before launching the game to free up system resources.
• Backup your game saves and important files before making any significant changes.

Step 1: Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers often cause stuttering in games. Updating your drivers ensures your system can handle the game efficiently.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Display adapters section.
3. Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the prompts to install any available updates and restart your computer.

Why this matters: Graphics drivers control how your PC communicates with your GPU. Updated drivers improve compatibility and fix bugs that can cause lag or stuttering.

Step 2: Adjust In-Game Graphics Settings

Sometimes the game’s graphics settings may be too demanding for your system. Lowering these settings can reduce stuttering and improve frame rates.

1. Open The Sims 4 and go to Options > Game Options > Graphics.
2. Change the Graphics Quality to Low or Medium.
3. Turn off features such as V-Sync and Anti-Aliasing to reduce hardware load.
4. Apply the changes and restart the game.

Why this matters: High graphics settings require more GPU power. Adjusting them helps your computer run the game more smoothly, especially if your hardware is mid-range or older.

Step 3: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations

Windows 11’s fullscreen optimizations can sometimes cause input lag or stuttering in certain games, including The Sims 4.

1. Right-click the Sims 4 shortcut or executable file, then select Properties.
2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
3. Check the box labeled Disable fullscreen optimizations.
4. Click Apply and then OK.
5. Restart the game and check for improvements.

Why this matters: Disabling fullscreen optimizations forces the game to run in a more traditional mode, reducing conflicts and improving stability.

Step 4: Set The Sims 4 Process Priority to High

Increasing the priority of The Sims 4 process tells Windows to allocate more CPU resources to the game, which may reduce stuttering.

1. Launch The Sims 4 and then press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Find TS4.exe or The Sims 4 under the Processes tab.
3. Right-click the process, hover over Set priority, and select High.
4. Confirm the change if prompted.

Note: Do not set the priority to Realtime, as this can cause system instability.

Step 5: Optimize Power Settings

Your PC’s power settings can affect game performance. Ensuring your system uses a high-performance power plan can prevent throttling during gameplay.

1. Press Windows + S and type Power & Sleep Settings, then open it.
2. Click on Additional power settings on the right.
3. Select the High performance power plan. If you don’t see it, click Create a power plan and select it there.
4. Save changes and close the window.

Why this matters: Balanced or power-saving modes can limit CPU or GPU performance to save energy, which may cause stuttering.

Alternative Method: Use Game Mode and Graphics Performance Settings

Windows 11 includes Game Mode and per-application graphics settings that can help improve performance.

1. Open Settings > Gaming > Game Mode and make sure it is turned On.
2. Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
3. Click Browse and add TS4.exe from your game installation folder.
4. After adding, click on the game and select Options.
5. Choose High performance to ensure the game uses your dedicated GPU.
6. Save the setting and restart your PC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is The Sims 4 stuttering only on Windows 11?

Windows 11 is relatively new and may have compatibility issues with some games or drivers. Updates to the OS and drivers usually resolve these problems over time.

Will lowering graphics settings reduce the visual quality?

Yes, lowering settings like shadows, textures, and effects will reduce visual fidelity but can make gameplay smoother, especially on lower-end hardware.

Can third-party mods cause stuttering?

Yes. Mods and custom content can sometimes conflict with the game or cause performance issues. Try disabling mods to see if the stuttering improves.

Is reinstalling the game necessary to fix stuttering?

Reinstallation is generally a last resort. Most stuttering issues can be fixed with driver updates and system tweaks.

Does using an SSD improve The Sims 4 performance?

Installing the game on an SSD can reduce loading times and help with smoother gameplay, but it may not completely fix stuttering caused by CPU or GPU limitations.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and The Sims 4 still stutters on your Windows 11 PC, consider these final options:

• Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, a pending update can resolve compatibility issues.
• Repair the Game: Use the Origin or EA app to verify and repair your game files.
• Contact EA Support: Visit the official EA Help website for personalized assistance.
• Community Forums: Engage with fellow players on The Sims forums or Reddit to find shared solutions.

Conclusion

Stuttering in The Sims 4 on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most performance issues can be resolved with simple steps like updating drivers, adjusting game settings, and optimizing system configurations. Start with the basic fixes and gradually try more advanced options if needed.

Remember to keep your system and game updated, and consider hardware upgrades if your PC struggles consistently. Following this guide will help you enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable Sims experience.