Many users may not be aware that Windows harbors a hidden mode capable of unlocking the full performance potential of their PCs, all without the need for hardware upgrades. By making a simple adjustment, you can elevate your system’s capabilities significantly. Here’s a closer look at how to achieve this.
Understanding Windows Power Modes
If you are utilizing Windows 10 or Windows 11, you are likely acquainted with the various power profiles designed to manage power consumption and performance. These profiles typically include three primary options: Power Saver, Balanced, and High Performance. Users often switch between these settings to either extend battery life or enhance performance when necessary. Notably, these profiles are not exclusive to laptops; they can also be adjusted on desktop systems.
However, many remain unaware of an additional hidden power mode that can propel your PC’s performance beyond the standard high-performance setting. Before we delve into the specifics, it’s essential to clarify two categories of settings that often cause confusion.
- The first is the Power Mode, accessible via the Settings app under System > Power & Sleep. This allows users to toggle between the three basic profiles, which are convenient but not the focus of our discussion today.
- The second, more advanced option is the Power Plan, located in the Control Panel > System and Security > Power Options. This section also presents three options: Balanced, Power Saver, and High Performance. Yet, there exists a fourth, more powerful setting that is typically hidden by default—known as Ultimate Performance, which can unleash your system’s full capabilities.
Activating the Ultimate Performance Mode
Typically, Ultimate Performance Mode is concealed on consumer PCs and is primarily intended for high-end workstations operating on Windows Pro. Fortunately, this mode is also accessible on Windows Home, requiring just a simple trick to reveal it.
To unlock this feature, follow these steps:
- Open PowerShell by right-clicking the Start Menu in your taskbar and selecting Windows Terminal (Admin).
- In the PowerShell window that appears, type or paste the following command and press Enter:
- Upon pressing Enter, a GUID entry will appear, indicating that the power scheme has been successfully added.
- Next, open the Start Menu again and type “Power”. Click on the search result labeled Choose a power plan.
- On the following page, click on Show additional plans and select Ultimate Performance.
Congratulations! You have now unlocked Windows’ Ultimate Performance Mode.
What to Expect from Ultimate Performance?
While this hidden mode may seem like a transformative feature, it is important to consider the trade-offs involved. Since Ultimate Performance is designed to maximize your system’s speed and responsiveness, it will consume more power, which could lead to a noticeable decrease in battery life for laptops. Furthermore, your PC’s components will generate additional heat, causing the cooling system to work harder, which may result in louder fan noise.
Given these implications, it is advisable to refrain from using this mode in quiet or public environments, such as an open office or while traveling. Instead, reserve it for moments when you genuinely require the extra power, such as during intensive tasks like photo editing, video editing, 3D modeling, or engaging in demanding video games.
By activating this mode, you empower your PC to operate at peak performance when necessary, all without the need for hardware upgrades. Just be mindful of its energy consumption and utilize it judiciously to maximize your system’s potential.
