Max Background FPS affects desktop performance

[Crêpière-khadgar]

This issue was very apparent in Diablo 4, where the default Max Background FPS was set low… but in World of Warcraft (Retail) the same issue persists.

Steps and issue description:
Max Background FPS will limit Windows’ FPS when the game is running in the background.

1. Enable Fullscreen (Windowed.)
2. Enable and set max background fps to the lowest number possible (8fps.)
3. Alt-tab to desktop and try to use applications. Notice visible framerate lag.
4. Return to WoW, increase max background fps.
5. Alt-tab to desktop and notice perfect framerate.

System:
Windows - Latest updates
Nvidia GeForce 4080 RTX - Latest drivers
WoW: 3440 x 1440 (100%) resolution, settings at 7/10, nvidia reflex enabled

[Pawgwalker-dalaran]

Sounds like some Windows vsync/gsync or double/triple buffering glitch. Make sure absolutely nothing else is running that can use overlays and that nothing else is using hardware acceleration like your browser or the battlenet launcher. And try disabling gsync if you have it on.

I tried it out just now and don’t have this issue, so I’m curious what minor differences are causing this for you. I even tried with mixed refresh rates where I had WoW on a 60hz secondary monitor and 144hz on my main screen, still no problems.