Changing the frames per second on your Xbox can make games feel smoother and more responsive. This guide walks you through what is possible depending on your console model, game support, and settings available in each title.
Use the quick reference table below to compare frame rate options between Xbox models and understand which features are available at a glance.
| Xbox model | Default target FPS | Supports higher FPS | Adjust per-game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox One | 30 FPS | Limited selection | Yes, when a game offers an FPS mode |
| Xbox One X | 30–60 FPS | Yes, up to 60 FPS in supported games | Yes, when a game offers an FPS mode |
| Xbox Series S | 30–120 FPS | Yes, up to 120 FPS in select titles | Yes, when a game offers an FPS mode |
| Xbox Series X | 30–120 FPS | Yes, up to 120 FPS in select titles | Yes, when a game offers an FPS mode |
Check individual game settings
Frame rate options depend on the game
Not every game lets you change FPS on Xbox, because each developer chooses how to balance visuals, performance, and stability. On Xbox Series consoles, many modern releases include a Performance mode that targets higher or variable frame rates. On Xbox One, only a handful of titles expose an FPS mode toggle at all. Always check the game’s features on the store page or its support site to see what choices are available.
When a game does support changing FPS, you usually enable it inside the title’s settings under Display or Performance. The steps can differ between games, so it helps to know where to look before you start adjusting options.
If you are trying to boost smoothness in competitive play, focus on games that explicitly label a Performance or High FPS mode rather than assuming the console will automatically raise the frame rate.
Use Performance mode when available
Switch to higher frame rates in supported titles
On Xbox Series X and Series S, Performance mode is the most common way to increase frames per second. When this mode is active, the game often targets a higher frame rate, sometimes unlocked, and may prioritize smoother motion over maximum resolution. You can toggle Performance mode in the in-game settings or, in some cases, from the Xbox dashboard before launching the title.
To access Performance mode from the dashboard, highlight the game, press the Menu button on your controller, and look for an option like Optimize for performance or Dynamic refresh. Not every game includes these dashboard-level switches, but titles that support Auto HDR and high dynamic range usually expose higher frame rate options this way.
Keep in mind that turning on Performance mode can reduce visual detail or cause the game to prioritize consistent motion over sharp textures. Use this setting when fast reactions and smooth visuals matter more than minor image quality differences.
Understand the role of dynamic refresh and VRR
Smooth frame delivery depends on display support
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) helps stabilize frame delivery by matching the monitor’s refresh timing to the Xbox’s output, reducing stutter and screen tearing. On Xbox Series consoles, enabling VRR can make higher frame rates feel smoother even if the frame count fluctuates. If your TV or monitor supports VRR, turn it on in the display settings, and pair it with Performance mode when the game allows it.
Dynamic refresh rate on compatible screens works alongside VRR to minimize visible stutter when the frame rate varies. This combination is most effective when the game can consistently sustain the targeted frame range. On older TVs that do not support VRR, you may notice more fluctuation or occasional stutter during intense scenes.
HDR support can also interact with frame rate settings on Xbox Series X and Series S. Some titles offer separate Performance modes for SDR and HDR, so check your game’s display options if you want both high frames and high dynamic range.
Optimize system settings to support higher FPS
Console and network settings influence stability
To maintain higher frame rates, ensure your Xbox Series console has adequate ventilation, enough room in storage, and the latest system updates installed. Background apps and downloads can steal bandwidth and processing power, so close unused applications and pause large updates while playing. On the network side, a stable wired connection or a strong Wi-Fi signal reduces latency spikes that might interrupt smooth playback.
Power mode also plays a role. Always choose Performance mode in the console’s power settings so the system focuses on delivering consistent frame rates rather than power savings. Energy saving modes can cause slight delays or interruptions, especially during longer gaming sessions on Xbox Series hardware.
If multiple people share the connection, avoid peak usage times or set Quality of Service on your router to prioritize your Xbox traffic. Consistent network performance helps online games keep their frames stable and reduces rubber-banding or sudden lag that can feel like frame drops.
Take control of your frame rate on Xbox
- Check whether your game offers a Performance or High FPS mode in its settings
- Enable VRR on compatible displays to stabilize higher frame rates
- Close background apps and pause downloads to reserve resources for gaming
- Use Performance mode in console power settings for consistent frame delivery
- Choose games that clearly label frame rate options if smooth motion is a priority
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I set a global FPS limit on Xbox to protect my TV?
You cannot set a single FPS limit across all games from the Xbox system settings. Frame rate options are controlled by each individual title, and the console only offers display-related settings such as VRR and HDR. If you want to limit frames, you must use in-game options or third-party tools provided by the game itself.
Will turning on Performance mode reduce image quality on Xbox Series X?
Yes, in many titles, switching to Performance mode can lower visual fidelity by reducing resolution, anti-aliasing levels, or texture detail in favor of smoother motion. The exact trade-off varies by game, so review the performance mode description in the game’s settings or store page before enabling it.
Why does my Xbox One game not show a Performance mode option?
Xbox One games often target 30 FPS as a stable baseline, and many developers do not expose a higher frame rate mode because the hardware cannot consistently sustain faster performance. In some cases, patches add optional Performance modes, but older titles may never include this setting.
Can a high frame rate setting cause input lag on Xbox Series consoles?
In most cases, higher frame rates reduce perceived input lag because actions appear on screen more quickly. However, if your network or TV processing adds delay, the benefit of more frames may be less noticeable. Use wired controllers, a low-latency TV mode, and a stable network to get the best responsiveness.