Windowed games in Windows 11: check the app graphics setting before comparing frame pacing
A game that feels uneven in a window can be running under a different presentation mode from the one you tested before. Record whether the game uses a regular window, a borderless window or a full-screen mode, then note the game’s graphics API if its own settings expose it.
Read the setting
Microsoft describes windowed optimizations for compatible DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 titles. In Windows 11 Graphics settings, check the system default and the entry for the actual game. A per-app setting can make two games on the same screen behave differently.
Compare a specific example
Compare the same quiet scene at the same resolution. Keep the monitor, refresh rate and game graphics preset fixed. Record Auto HDR separately because Windows can enable windowed optimizations when Auto HDR is turned on. After an authorized per-app test, restart the game and restore the original preference if it did not help.
Frequently asked question
Can I use the result for a browser game?
The Microsoft feature is documented for compatible DirectX games. A browser game needs a separate diagnosis.