Summary created by Smart Answers AI
Table of Contents
In summary:
- PCWorld reports that Microsoft’s June update KB5094126 introduces the Low Latency Profile feature for Windows 11, designed to reduce lag when launching apps or opening the Start menu.
- This feature temporarily boosts CPU clock speed for 1-3 seconds during specific tasks, particularly benefiting older or less powerful PCs that experience stuttering.
- Users can install the update through Windows Update and verify activation using the free HWiNFO app to monitor CPU spikes indicating the feature is working.
We first got a preview peek back in May, but now Microsoft is releasing the long-awaited “Low Latency Profile” feature for Windows 11 as part of its regular update cycle via update KB5094126. What was once optional is now rolling out to all Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 PCs.
Low Latency Profile makes Windows respond faster during certain actions. You should notice the speed boost especially on older or cheaper PCs with weaker hardware, whereas machines that are already powerful probably won’t notice much of a difference.
Low Latency Profile briefly boosts CPU clock speed to full power for at least 1 second and up to 3 seconds, but only for specific tasks like launching an app or opening the Start menu. It’s intended to address unnecessary lag and stuttering over the course of regular operation. Once Windows has performed this action, the CPU clock speed is brought back down again. It’s a technique that’s been used in macOS and Linux for a long time—Windows is now catching up.
In the update notes, Microsoft describes it like this:
[General Performance] This update accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as Start menu, Search, and Action Center.
How to check if Low Latency Profile is available on your PC
First, you have to install update KB5094126, which should be available on your PC via Windows Update. Navigate to Settings → System → Windows Update and check whether KB5094126 is available. If it isn’t there yet, you may have to wait a few hours for the rollout to hit your PC. Alternatively, download the update via Microsoft Update Catalog.
After installing KB5094126, Windows should now have build number 26200.8655 (for 25H2) or 26100.8655 (for 24H2). You can find this in Settings → System → About. If your build number matches, your computer should be eligible for Low Latency Profile.
Check if Low Latency Profile is active
Note that Microsoft is still gradually rolling out the new Low Latency Profile feature, which means even if your PC is eligible to receive it, it may not be activated yet—and there’s no official indicator in Windows that shows whether Low Latency Profile is active.
And even though the Windows Task Manager displays CPU performance, it reacts too slowly to correctly show the brief spikes in performance caused by Low Latency Profile, notes Windows Latest.
If you really want to check, you can install the free HWiNFO app (which happens to be one of our favorite apps for checking the health of your PC). Launch HWiNFO, select “Full mode,” then click “Start.” Position the HWiNFO sensor window so that you can always see it. You can then monitor what your CPU is doing as soon as you perform actions affected by Low Latency Profile, like opening the Start menu. If it spikes to max and falls back down within 3 seconds, it’s likely active.
Further reading: Unlock hidden Windows features with this free tool
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.