Input lag in Counter-Strike 2 can ruin your aim and throw off timing in critical situations. Whether you’re missing shots or feeling general sluggishness, this guide will show you how to dramatically reduce input delay using a mix of Windows tweaks, Steam launch options, and in-game settings—especially useful for competitive players chasing pixel-perfect accuracy.

Step 1: Registry Tweak to Prioritize Game Threads

This tweak boosts how Windows allocates CPU time for foreground apps like CS2.

How to Apply It:

• Press Win + R
• Type regedit and press Enter

• Navigate to: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Control\PriorityControl
• Find Win32PrioritySeparation, double-click it
• Select Decimal
• Set the value to: 40
• Click OK and restart your PC

What Does This Do?

This registry change sets Windows to prioritize foreground applications (like CS2) over background processes. By using 40 as the value:

• Your game gets better CPU scheduling
• Reduces system-level input lag
• Improves real-time responsiveness, especially noticeable in fast-paced FPS games

Step 2: Add These CS2 Launch Options

Once your PC restarts, configure CS2’s launch settings in Steam.

Recommended Steam Launch Options:

-high -freq 144 -noreflex +fps_max 0

Explanation:

• -high: Runs CS2 with high CPU priority
• -freq 144: Matches your monitor’s refresh rate (adjust if needed)
• -noreflex: Disables NVIDIA Reflex (yes, really – more below)
• +fps_max 0: Removes FPS cap for maximum frame output

---

Why “-noreflex” Is a Must

Contrary to its marketing, NVIDIA Reflex can cause inconsistent frame pacing and latency spikes in CS2 especially if your FPS isn’t stable or you’re on a mid-range GPU. By using -noreflex, you:

• Avoid potential micro-stutters
• Get more predictable input timing
• Maintain higher frame consistency for smoother aiming

Note: Reflex works great in some games, but in CS2 it often introduces more issues than it solves.

Step 3: Additional Ways to Reduce Input Lag

To further minimize latency, apply these settings:

In-Game Settings:

• Display Mode: Fullscreen (not borderless)
• VSync: Off
• Motion Blur: Off
• Anti-Aliasing: Use FXAA or none
• Frame Cap: Match to your monitor (or uncapped if stable)

System Settings:

• Enable Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling (Windows Settings → Graphics → Change Default → On)
• Disable game overlays (Steam, Discord, GeForce Experience)
• Use DisplayPort instead of HDMI if your monitor supports it (lower latency)
• Update to the latest GPU drivers

Monitor Settings:

• Set your monitor to its highest refresh rate
• Turn on “Instant Mode” or “Low Input Lag” in your monitor menu

By following these steps, you’ll eliminate unnecessary latency and enjoy a much more responsive feel in Counter-Strike 2. Whether you’re entering competitive matches or warming up your aim, input precision makes a massive difference—and these tweaks give you the edge you’ve been looking for.

If you’ve got more input-lag reduction tips, let us know in the comments. Otherwise, see you on the server with no delay.