ByWhat is Windows Efficiency Mode, and why is it important?
Efficiency Mode is an advanced feature in newer versions of Windows, specifically designed to extend battery life, reduce CPU usage, and balance system performance. By 2026, this feature will have become even smarter in Windows 11 and subsequent updates.
While useful in many cases, it can limit your system’s full potential during high-performance tasks, gaming, video editing, coding, or resource-intensive software. In such situations, disabling Efficiency Mode becomes crucial.
Things to know before turning off Windows Efficiency Mode
Before disabling Efficiency Mode, it’s essential to understand that:
CPU throttling is removed
Background apps run at full capacity
The system’s real performance output increases
Battery consumption may be slightly higher
If your goal is speed, performance, and a smooth experience, disabling Efficiency Mode is the right decision.
How to turn off Windows Efficiency Mode from Task Manager (Easiest Method)
Step-by-step process
1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Go to the “Processes” tab
3. Find the app or process that has Efficiency Mode enabled
4. Right-click on the process name
5. If there is a checkmark next to “Efficiency Mode,” click on it to disable it
As soon as you disable it, that process will immediately start running in full performance mode.
Also read: Microsoft Edge 144 Update: An Easy Way to Remove Copilot and New Features.
How to remove Efficiency Mode from multiple apps at once
If multiple apps are running in Efficiency Mode on your system:
Open Task Manager
Go to each important app (like browser, IDE, editor) individually and disable Efficiency Mode
Restart your system once for the changes to take full effect.
Control Efficiency Mode through Windows Settings
In the 2026 Windows updates, Power & Performance Settings have been further improved. Steps
1. Open Settings
2. Go to System → Power & Battery
3. Set Power Mode to Best Performance
4. Reduce limitations related to “Battery Optimization” and “Background App Management.”
This will cause Windows to automatically apply Efficiency Mode to fewer apps.
Activating High Performance Power Plan
Efficiency Mode is often more active when the system is in Balanced or Power Saver mode.
How to enable High Performance mode
1. Open Control Panel
2. Click on Power Options
3. Select High Performance or Ultimate Performance
4. If Ultimate Performance is not visible:
Open Command Prompt (Admin)
Run this command:
“`
powercfg -duplicatescheme e9a42b02-d5df-448d-aa00-03f14749eb61
“`
Now your system will use Efficiency Mode at a minimum level.
Why disable Efficiency Mode for Gaming and Heavy Software
If you use:
PC Games
Adobe Premiere Pro / After Effects
photoshop
Android Studio / Visual Studio
3D Rendering Software
Efficiency Mode can affect your FPS, Render Speed, and Response Time.
Disabling it will result in:
Smoother gameplay
Reduced lag and frame drops
Faster processing times
Controlling Efficiency Mode via Windows Registry (For Advanced Users)
This method is only for advanced users.
1. Press Win + R → type `regedit`
2. Navigate to this path:
“`
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power
“`
3. Modify the relevant Efficiency or Power Throttling values
4. Restart your system
This method reduces efficiency limitations at a system-wide level.
Efficiency Mode Behavior in Laptops and Desktops
Laptop: Efficiency Mode is more aggressive to save battery
Desktop: Its impact is less significant when plugged in
If you use your laptop mostly plugged in, disabling Efficiency Mode is even more beneficial. System Optimization Tips After Disabling Efficiency Mode
Disable unnecessary startup apps
Keep Windows Update up to date
Update graphics drivers
Limit background apps
These steps will keep your system fast, stable, and powerful.
Unlock full Windows Performance in 2026
Efficiency Mode is a good feature, but not for every user. If your priority is speed, multitasking, and professional performance, then disabling it correctly is essential. By following all the methods mentioned above, you can achieve 100% performance even in the latest version of Windows.
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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Windows Efficiency Mode
Q1. What is Windows Efficiency Mode?
Windows Efficiency Mode is a power-saving feature that limits CPU and system resource usage to extend battery life and reduce unnecessary load on the system.
Q2. Why does Efficiency Mode turn on automatically?
Windows automatically applies Efficiency Mode when it identifies an app as a background or low-priority process, especially on laptops, to conserve battery power.
Q3. Is it safe to turn off Efficiency Mode?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to turn off Efficiency Mode, especially when using high-performance apps, gaming, or professional software. It does not harm the system.
Q4. What effect does turning off Efficiency Mode have on the system?
Turning off Efficiency Mode:
Increases CPU performance
Apps respond faster
Games and heavy software run more smoothly
Battery consumption may increase slightly
Q5. Can Efficiency Mode be turned off for all apps?
Efficiency Mode can be turned off for each app individually through Task Manager. There is currently no single button in Windows to turn it off for all apps simultaneously.
Q6. Does Efficiency Mode exist on desktop PCs as well?
Yes, but its effect is less pronounced on desktop PCs because the system is constantly connected to a power source. It operates less aggressively on desktops compared to laptops.
Q7. Is it necessary to turn off Efficiency Mode for gaming?
Yes, if you are PC gaming, it is highly recommended to turn off Efficiency Mode. This increases FPS, reduces lag, and improves the overall gaming experience.
Q8. Can Efficiency Mode be re-enabled after a Windows Update?
Yes, some settings may reset after a Windows Update, and Efficiency Mode might be reactivated. Therefore, it’s best to check Task Manager after an update.
Q9. What is the difference between Efficiency Mode and Power Saver Mode?
Efficiency Mode: Works at the app level
Power Saver Mode: Applies to the entire system
Both aim to save power, but Efficiency Mode is more process-specific.
Q10. Will Efficiency Mode be removed in future Windows versions?
No, instead of being removed, Efficiency Mode is being made smarter and more customizable in Windows versions from 2026 onwards, so that users can control it according to their needs.
