: For gaming, turning off Memory Integrity ( Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Device Security ) can provide a 5–10% FPS boost . Note: Security-focused users should keep this on.

: While 16GB is the minimum, 32GB of DDR5 is the current "sweet spot" for modern multitasking and intensive gaming. Ensure you use a dual-channel configuration (two sticks) for a ~15% speed boost over a single stick.

Are you primarily looking to boost frame rates or speed up productivity workflows like video editing? How to Optimize Windows 11 for Gaming Performance in 2026

: Moving your OS and games to a PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD can offer speeds up to 12,000 MB/s, effectively eliminating loading screens.

: Use Ctrl + Shift + Esc to access the Task Manager. Disable unnecessary apps like Discord, Spotify, or Steam from launching automatically to free up several gigabytes of RAM. Essential Hardware Upgrades for 2026

To get the best performance on your PC in 2026, you should focus on a combination of deep system tweaks and targeted hardware upgrades.