CS2 runs on integrated graphics: how to switch

If FPS in CS2 is very low on a strong PC or laptop, the game may be running on the CPU's integrated graphics instead of the graphics card.

📌 How to check

• While playing, open Task Manager → Performance and see which GPU is under load.

• Or use MSI Afterburner: if the dedicated GPU load is near zero, the game is not using it.

🔧 Windows setting

• Settings → System → Display → Graphics.

• Add cs2.exe (in game\bin\win64).

• Click Options and choose "High performance".

🖥️ NVIDIA Control Panel

Manage 3D settings → Program Settings → choose CS2 → Preferred graphics processor: High-performance NVIDIA processor.

🔌 Monitor connection

On a desktop, the monitor must be plugged into the graphics card, not the motherboard port. Otherwise the image goes through integrated graphics.

⚠️ Laptops

• Play with the charger plugged in.

• If your laptop has a MUX switch or a "dedicated GPU only" mode in its utility, enable it.