How to Improve Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Performance

Rob Miller
FlightSim
Published in
4 min readNov 17, 2023

Embarking on a virtual flight journey with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 can be a mesmerizing experience. The game’s stunning realism and intricate details bring the skies to life. However, to truly enjoy this state-of-the-art flight simulation, ensuring optimal performance is key. Below, we dive into practical steps to enhance your gaming experience.

How to Improve Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Performance

Key Takeaways

  • Update Your GPU Drivers: Crucial for the latest game support.
  • Optimize NVIDIA/AMD Settings: Adjust for performance.
  • Fine-tune DPI Settings: A tweak for better game responsiveness.
  • Fix Memory Leaks: To avoid mid-game stuttering or crashes.
  • Adjust Power Options in Windows: Boost your system’s performance.
  • Enable GPU Scheduling: A simple switch for a smoother experience.
  • Manage CPU Usage: Crucial for preventing freezes.
  • Basic Performance Tips: From SSD installation to shutting down background apps.
  • Optimal Graphics Settings: Balance between aesthetics and fluidity.
  • Traffic Settings: Reducing this can significantly improve performance.

Enhancing Graphics and Performance

Update Your GPU Drivers

Keeping your GPU drivers updated is the first step in ensuring Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 runs smoothly. Graphics card manufacturers frequently release updates that enhance compatibility and performance with new games. Here’s how to keep your drivers up-to-date for the best experience.

NVIDIA Control Panel & AMD Radeon Settings

For those using NVIDIA graphics cards, tweaking the NVIDIA Control Panel settings can lead to significant performance improvements. We’ll guide you through the process of optimizing these settings for an enhanced flight simulation experience.

DPI Scaling for Better Responsiveness

DPI (Dots Per Inch) scaling can impact your game’s responsiveness. Adjusting these settings can lead to a more fluid and responsive gaming experience. We’ll show you the steps to tweak these settings effectively.

System and Hardware Optimization

Addressing Memory Leak Issues

Memory leaks can cause stuttering or crashes after extended gameplay. Using tools like ISLC can help you fix these issues, ensuring a seamless flight experience.

Power Options for Enhanced Performance

Windows power settings can significantly impact your game’s performance. Optimizing these settings can unlock your system’s full potential, especially when running demanding applications like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020.

Utilizing GPU Scheduling

Turning on ‘Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling’ in Windows can further enhance the game’s performance. We’ll walk you through the steps to enable this feature.

Advanced Performance Strategies

Managing High CPU Usage

A common issue with high-intensity games like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is high CPU usage, which can lead to game stuttering or freezing. We’ll explore how tools like Process Lasso can help manage CPU resources for a smoother gaming experience.

Basic Tips for Consistent Performance

Sometimes, the basics make the biggest difference. From using an SSD to shutting down unnecessary background apps, these simple yet effective tips can greatly enhance your game’s performance.

The Best Graphics Settings for Optimal Performance

Fine-tuning the game’s graphics settings is crucial for balancing visual quality and performance. We’ll dive into the recommended settings to help you enjoy a visually stunning yet smooth flight simulation experience.

Optimizing Traffic Settings

Reducing traffic settings within the game can have a significant impact on performance. We’ll guide you on how to adjust these settings for better frame rates without compromising the realism of your flight environment.

FAQs

How Can I Improve FPS in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?

To improve FPS in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, start by updating your GPU drivers, as they often include optimizations for new games. Adjusting your NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon settings to prioritize performance can also make a significant difference. Lower the game’s graphics settings, particularly the render scaling, anti-aliasing, and shadow maps to reduce the load on your GPU. Also, consider switching to SSD if you haven’t already, as it can improve loading times and overall game smoothness. Lastly, ensure your PC is running in high-performance mode and close any unnecessary background applications to allocate more resources to the game.

Why Does Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Lag, and How Can I Fix It?

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 may lag due to various reasons including outdated GPU drivers, high game settings, or inadequate system resources. To fix lag, first update your GPU drivers. Lower the in-game graphic settings such as texture resolution, shadows, and anti-aliasing to reduce the strain on your hardware. If you have an SSD, install the game on it to improve loading times and game responsiveness. Ensure that Windows Game Mode is on and background recording is off. Additionally, check for any background applications that might be consuming system resources and close them. If the issue persists, consider using a tool like Process Lasso to manage CPU usage effectively.

Is an SSD Crucial for Playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?

While an SSD is not mandatory for playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, it’s highly recommended. An SSD significantly improves the game’s loading times, which can be lengthy on traditional hard drives. Additionally, it enhances the overall smoothness and responsiveness of the game, reducing stuttering when new scenery loads during flight. If you’re experiencing performance issues or long loading times, upgrading to an SSD can provide a noticeable improvement in your gaming experience. For optimal performance, install both the game and its cache on the SSD.

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Rob Miller
FlightSim

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