CS2 Launch Options Generator

Build the optimal Counter-Strike 2 launch options for your hardware and use case. Toggle individual flags, see detailed explanations, and copy the final string to paste into Steam.

Select Launch Options


Skip the intro video on startup for faster launch

Set process priority to high for better CPU allocation

Set offline/practice server tickrate to 128

Specify CPU thread count (adjust to your CPU)

Log console output to a file for debugging

Uncap frame rate for maximum FPS

Disable dynamic lighting for better performance

Enable cheats for offline practice

Enable developer console output

Your Launch Options

Launch Option Presets

Pre-configured launch option sets for different hardware and use cases. Click any preset for a detailed breakdown of each flag.

Low-End PC

Optimized for older hardware. Prioritizes performance and removes unnecessary overhead.

-novid -high -threads 4 +fps_max 120

Mid-Range PC

Balanced settings for moderate hardware. Good performance without sacrificing features.

-novid -tickrate 128 +fps_max 300

High-End PC

Minimal restrictions for powerful hardware. Lets the system run at maximum capability.

-novid -tickrate 128 +fps_max 0

Stutter Fix

Settings aimed at reducing micro-stutters and improving frame consistency.

-novid -high -threads 4 +r_dynamic 0 +fps_max 0

Low Input Lag

Minimized input latency configuration for competitive advantage.

-novid -high +fps_max 0

Streaming

Optimized for streaming with OBS or similar software running alongside CS2.

-novid -threads 4 +fps_max 240

Competitive

A competitive-focused configuration balancing performance, practice quality, and responsiveness.

-novid -tickrate 128 -high +fps_max 400

Minimal Clean

The absolute minimum recommended launch options. Only skips the intro video.

-novid

Practice Server

Configured for offline practice with cheats enabled for grenade practice and movement training.

-novid -tickrate 128 +sv_cheats 1

Laptop

Conservative settings for laptop play, managing heat and battery while maintaining playability.

-novid -high -threads 2 +fps_max 60

4K Display

Settings for high-resolution displays where GPU is the bottleneck.

-novid +fps_max 144

Debug / Testing

Developer-oriented launch options for testing configs, commands, and troubleshooting.

-novid -tickrate 128 -condebug +developer 1

Important Notes About CS2 Launch Options

Many launch options from CS:GO no longer work in Counter-Strike 2. Valve has removed support for several legacy flags as the Source 2 engine handles optimization differently. It is recommended to use minimal launch options and let CS2 manage most settings automatically. The options listed above are confirmed to work in CS2 as of 2025.

When in doubt, using just -novid is a safe starting point. Only add additional flags if you have a specific performance issue to address.

Launch Options FAQ

What are CS2 launch options?
Launch options are command-line parameters passed to CS2 when it starts via Steam. They control startup behavior, performance settings, and system-level configurations that cannot be changed in-game.
Where do I set CS2 launch options?
In Steam, right-click Counter-Strike 2 in your library, click Properties, and enter the launch options in the text field under the General tab.
What is the best CS2 launch option for FPS?
The most impactful options are -novid (skip intro), -high (process priority), and +fps_max 0 (uncap frames). However, most legacy performance options from CSGO no longer work in CS2.
Do CS2 launch options affect performance?
Some options like -high and -threads can improve performance on certain hardware. However, CS2 handles most optimization internally, so minimal launch options are often recommended.