1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. Windows

Adjust Visual Effects to Improve the Speed of Your Windows Computer
Visual Effects Improve the Look of Your PC, But Can Slow it Down

by Mark Baggesen
for About.com

adjust visual effects

Adjust Visual Effects

Using the Visual Effects tab (under Control Panel, System and Maintenance, Adjust Effects or Performance - depending on the version of Windows you use) is an easy way to set your preferences for visual effects and system performance of your Windows.

For Vista computers, reducing the visual effects in can result in speed increases for your computer without much if any noticeable change in the look and feel of the Aero Interface.

There are four choices:

  • Let Windows choose what's best for my computer - the default setting.

  • Adjust for best appearance - all effects will be used; requires the most amount of operating memory for this function

  • Adjust for best performance - most effects will not be used; requires the least amount of operating memory for this function

  • Custom - you can choose the settings you want to use or not use

A checkmark next to an effect indicates that the effect will be used. You might try unchecking a few settings at a time (using the custom setting), to see what you notice and to decide whether or not you like the way Windows functions.

Explore Windows
About.com Special Features

Stay connected and entertained with reviews on tips on the latest HDTVs, cellphones and more. More >

Easy ways to connect two computers for networking purposes. More >

  1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. Windows
  4. Maintain and Fix
  5. Adjust Visual Effects - Adjust Visual Effects to Improve the Speed of Your Windows Computer>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.