If you play fast-paced games, even a small delay can cost you the win. Whether it’s input lag or network delay, both can ruin your experience. The good news is, you can fix this easily by changing a few settings.
Here’s how to optimize your Xbox Series X for low latency gaming and make every reaction count.
How To Optimize Your Xbox Series X For Low Latency Gaming
Network latency affects only online games. It’s caused by your internet connection and can lead to rubber-banding or delayed actions.
Input lag affects all games and happens when your TV or settings delay your controls. To fix both, you need to know which one you’re facing.
If the delay happens in offline games too, it’s input lag. If it only happens online, your internet is the issue.
How To Fix Input Lag In Xbox Series X
1. Turn on Game Mode on Your TV
Most TVs have built-in image processing that adds delay. Game Mode disables that extra processing.
Go to your TV settings and turn on “Game Mode” or “Gaming.” This single step can cut input delay by more than half.
2. Enable Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Your Xbox has the capability of automatically activating Game Mode on your TV as soon as you start a gaming session.
To do this, head over to Settings > General > TV & Display Option.
3. Set Refresh Rate to 120Hz
If your TV allows for it, switch to a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother and more responsive gameplay. You can do this from Settings > General > TV & Display Options > Refresh Rate.
You can do this from Settings > General > TV & Display Options > Refresh Rate.
4. Disable Motion Smoothing
Some TVs keep motion smoothing on even in Game Mode. Turn it off as it adds lag and can make gameplay feel sluggish.
5. Use Performance Mode
In your game settings, select “Performance Mode”. This option gives priority to frame rate and reduces input lag which makes aiming more precise.
How To Fix Network Lag In Xbox Series X
1. Use a Wired Connection
Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s unstable and can cause packet loss. Using an ethernet cable to connect your Xbox to your router can reduce your ping by 30ms and packet loss.
2. Check Your Ping and Packet Loss
Go to Settings > Network > Network Settings > Test Network Speed & Statistics. For smooth online play, your ping should be under 80ms and packet loss should be 0%.
3. Open Your NAT Type
High ping and matchmaking issues can be caused by a strict NAT.
Modify your router settings by either enabling UPnP or forwarding the necessary ports for Xbox Live. Reboot your Xbox after the adjustments.
4. Change Your DNS
- Using a faster DNS can reduce connection delay.
- Go to Settings > Network > Advanced Settings > DNS Settings > Manual.
- Use 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google) as your primary DNS.
Your Xbox Series X already has the power for smooth, low-latency gaming. You just need to tune the settings. Start by enabling Game Mode, switching to Ethernet, and turning on Performance Mode. These small steps make a big difference.
