CS2 launch parameters
The update of the legendary shooter to CS2 has resulted in significantly increased system requirements for fans. Users have to look for optimal launch parameters for their favorite game on home PCs and laptops to improve performance, avoid common errors, and enjoy participating in rounds.
Launch settings are individual parameters that vary depending on the level of the computer used and the player's personal preferences. For example, professionals use specific settings, which can be reviewed along with their crosshair configurations on the CSSpot website. However, beginners and owners of low-end PCs will choose completely different parameters. Below, we will explain how to launch CS2 on different computers and the settings used by pro players.
CS2 launch parameters for low-end PCs
Players with low-end hardware are advised to use the CS2 launch parameters listed below. However, it is important to note that many of them are borrowed from CS:GO and may stop working over time.
- –d3d9ex — setting for instant minimizing or maximizing of CS2. Reduces CPU load by up to 40%.
- –high — launches the game with high priority.
- –freq X — sets the screen refresh rate. Replace "X" with the refresh rate of your monitor.
- –refresh X — changes the display refresh rate. Replace "X" with the preferred value.
- +fps_max 0 — removes the FPS limit.
- +rate 124000 — sets the maximum amount of data the host can receive (bits per second).
- +exec "file name" — loads previously saved configurations.
- +cl_cmdrate 128 — sets the maximum number of packets sent to the server per second.
- +cl_updaterate 128 — sets the maximum number of update packets received from the server per second.
- +ex_interpratio 1 — network configuration.
- –threads X — replace "X" with the number of CPU cores required.
- -cl_interp 0 — smooths the image.
- +cl_interp_ratio 1 — increases connection speed to the server.
- +mat_queue_mode 2 — enables multi-core processing.
- -nojoy — disables joystick support
An example of CS2 launch parameters for older PCs looks like this:
-high -threads 6 +fps_max 0 +cl_interp 0 +cl_interp_ratio 1 +rate 124000 +cl_updaterate 128 +cl_cmdrate 128 +mat_queue_mode 2 -freq 165 -refresh 165 -d3d9ex -nojoy.
Commands for launch parameters
With the release of the updated version of the beloved shooter, players have encountered the fact that many commands from CS:GO have lost their relevance. Of course, there is still a possibility that they may return, but only in theory. In the meantime, owners of high-end PCs are advised to use the commands from the table below:
| Command | Function |
| -high | launches CS2 with high priority |
| +fps_max 0 | removes FPS limits |
| +exec «имя файла» | allows loading the necessary CS2 configs from the folder for later use during gameplay |
| +cl_hideserverip | hides the server IP |
| -nojoy | deactivates gamepad support, freeing up some RAM |
| -threads X | sets the number of CPU cores to be used (replace "X" with the desired number) |
| -language english | changes the language to English |
| -console | launches the console for entering commands |
| -novid | skips the startup video when launching CS2 |
| -noaafonts | disables font smoothing |
| -autoconfig | launches the game with random (default) settings |
| +mat_queue_mode 2 | enables multi-core processing |
| + r_dynamic 0 | disables dynamic lighting |
| +cl_forcepreload 1 | loads temporary files for connecting to the server |
| -soft | launches the game in "Software" mode |
| -softparticlesdefaultoff | removes soft particles |
| -nosync | disables vertical synchronization (V-Sync) |
| -fullscreen | switches to fullscreen mode |
| +violence_hblood 0 | removes blood, reducing vertical load on the PC |
How to Change Launch Parameters in CS2
To change settings in Counter-Strike 2, follow a simple and clear instruction:
- Log in to your Steam account to access the library.
- Find CS2 in the game list. Select Counter-Strike 2 and go to the Properties section.
- Choose the General tab.
- Locate the Set Launch Options field and click on it.
- Enter the preferred launch parameters in the pop-up dialog box.
After completing these steps, simply confirm the settings by clicking the “OK” button, launch CS2, and enjoy the gameplay.
The best CS2 launch parameters from pro players
Many users among the top CS2 players often use a set of additional launch parameters:
- Boost Player Contrast – enabled.
- Wait For Vertical Sync – disabled.
- Current Video Values Preset – default.
- Multisampling Anti-Aliasing Mode – 4x MSAA.
- Global Shadow Quality – low.
- Model / Texture Detail – low.
- Texture Filtering Mode – bilinear.
- Shader Detail – high.
- Particle Detail – low.
- Ambient Occlusion – disabled.
- High Dynamic Range – quality.
- Fidelity FX Super Resolution – disabled.
- NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency – enabled.
Top players in the world launch Counter-Strike 2 with the following settings.
- Donk. Danil chooses the following settings:
-tickrate 128 +mat_queue_mode 2 -allow_third_party_software -language english - mONESY. Ilya prefers these settings:
-freq 240 -novid -tickrate 128 +rate 786432 - ZyWoo. The Vitality sniper plays with the following settings:
-novid -tickrate 128 -allow_third_party_software
These parameters are used by pro-scene representatives who ranked in the Top 3 in the world by the end of 2024. You can study CS2 crosshairs from other professional Counter-Strike players at any time on the CSSpot website.
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