Last week, Microsoft released the highly anticipated July 2023 update for Windows 11. While this update introduces various enhancements, such as displaying seconds in the taskbar clock and the PrtSc key opening the Snipping Tool by default, one particularly noteworthy improvement has caught the attention of gamers: reduced stuttering in-game.
Addressing High Polling Rate Mouse Stuttering
According to a Microsoft developer in conversation with Windows Latest, the update aims to alleviate stuttering issues associated with high polling rate gaming mice. The engineer states, “Some of you will see better gaming performance with the July 2023 update. This update improves performance when you use a mouse with a high gaming report rate.”
The root of the problem lies in the intense competition on the Windows input stack, exacerbated by the numerous devices that gamers often connect to their machines. The substantial demand placed on the input stack leads to significant system time dedicated to processing input, adversely affecting the in-game experience. This can result in frustrating stuttering, regardless of the power of your hardware.
The Impact of High DPI and Multiple Inputs
When using a high DPI mouse with a polling rate of 1,000Hz or higher, your PC is required to track its movements a staggering 1,000 times per second. With the addition of other inputs such as controllers, voice chat, and streaming devices, Windows can become overwhelmed and struggle to keep up.
Windows has now implemented optimizations specifically tailored to address these challenges. This optimization factorizes gaming mice with high polling rates into the equation. Although some may argue that this solution has been long overdue, it is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.
This optimization was initially highlighted in a Windows Developer Blog post published in May. The post outlined the goal of reducing processing time for handling input requests by controlling and consolidating background raw mouse listeners while capping their message rate.
Significant Improvement in Gaming Experience
The Windows Developer Blog post further explains the impact of these changes: “After the improvements, on the same setup, we now deliver a smooth, uninterrupted gaming experience and preserve the low latency, high precision input experience in games while being efficient with input for background listeners!”
If you have been experiencing regular game stuttering on your gaming PC, a simple Windows update may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. The update in question is Windows 11 KB5028185, which should now be available through the Windows Update screen.
With the latest Windows 11 update addressing game stuttering, you can now enjoy an improved and uninterrupted gaming experience. Update your Windows 11 system today and say goodbye to frustrating stutters. Elevate your gaming sessions to new heights!
