CS2 Launch Options Generator
Build a clean set of Counter-Strike 2 launch options in seconds. Toggle only the options that actually help in Source 2, start from a preset, copy the string, and save your setups in your browser. No junk copypasta, no broken CS:GO-era flags.
Your launch options
-novid -tickrate 64 +fps_max 0 -nojoy
Save & load your setups
Stored locally in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
How to set launch options in CS2
- Open your Steam Library and right-click Counter-Strike 2 → Properties.
- On the General tab, paste the string above into Launch Options.
- Close the window (it saves automatically) and restart the game.
Want the reasoning behind each option? Read best CS2 launch options and squeeze out more frames with our CS2 FPS boost guide. Then dial in your aim with the crosshair generator.
The CS2 launch options that actually matter
CS2 needs far fewer launch options than CS:GO did — the Source 2 engine handles most tuning itself. A short, clean string beats a copy-pasted wall of outdated commands. These are the ones worth using:
- -novid — skips the intro movie so you load straight to the menu.
- -high — starts CS2 at high CPU priority (can help 1% lows on some systems; test it).
- -fullscreen — forces fullscreen for the best input latency and consistent FPS.
- +fps_max 0 (or a capped value) — uncaps your frame rate, or pins it just under your monitor's refresh for steadier frametimes.
- +exec autoexec.cfg — runs your autoexec every launch so your settings never reset.
- -language english — optional, forces the UI language regardless of Steam settings.
Options you can usually skip
A lot of old CS:GO "FPS boost" launch options do nothing in CS2 or can even hurt performance. You generally don't need -threads, -nod3d9ex, -console (enable the console in settings instead), or hard-coded resolution flags — the in-game video menu handles resolution and refresh better. When in doubt, keep the string short. If you want the full reasoning per option, read best CS2 launch options.
Launch options vs autoexec vs in-game settings
Think of it as three layers: launch options control how the game starts (priority, intro, exec), your autoexec applies console settings and binds every launch, and the in-game menu handles video, audio and most gameplay toggles. Use launch options only for the few things that must happen before the game window opens — put everything else in your autoexec.cfg.
Should you cap your FPS?
Uncapped (+fps_max 0) gives the lowest possible input lag, but if your frame rate swings wildly your frametimes can feel inconsistent. A popular middle ground is capping a little above your refresh rate — for a 144 Hz monitor try +fps_max 300+ so frames stay well above refresh without wild spikes. On weaker hardware, a stable capped number often feels smoother than a higher but jittery one. Test both and trust your eyes, not just the counter.
Launch options FAQ
-novid -high -fullscreen +fps_max 0 covers what matters for most systems. Real FPS gains come more from the in-game video settings and drivers — see our FPS boost guide.