How to Fix Valorant Lag Spikes, Packet Loss & FPS Drop (2024)

Valorant lag can be a major obstacle, disrupting your gameplay and ruining your competitive edge. Whether it's network issues, hardware limitations, or software conflicts, lag can come from various sources. Heck, sometimes Valorant even lags on a good PC. Identifying and addressing these problems is crucial for smooth gameplay.

That said, there’s no single Valorant stuttering fix you can use to boost your gameplay. It’s a complex process that requires a lot of OS and game optimizations.

I'll guide you through practical steps, from quick fixes like adjusting game settings to more advanced solutions, such as network optimization. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming for the top ranks, these methods will help you achieve a smoother, more responsive Valorant experience.

Military-Grade Security Features

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Security

Our Score: 10.0

High-level encryption keeps you safe online

Verified to not collect or share data

Visit ExpressVPN

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

10 Best Ways to Fix Valorant Lag

Valorant is a complex game, which means that there are many things that can cause lag or frame-per-second (FPS) drops. Here are some solutions for the most common issues:

1. Optimize Your Network Connection

A poor network connection is one of the primary causes of lag in Valorant. To stabilize it, make sure you use a wired connection, as WiFi inherently has higher latency since data travels through radio signals. If you don’t have the option to use a wired connection, restart your router and flush the DNS cache.

After that, just fire up the game as normal

The next thing you should do is close bandwidth-hogging applications. Whether it's your browser, torrent client, or messengers, all these apps are consuming your network bandwidth. Remember, Valorant requires a stable and consistent connection, so ensure your internet plan can handle it (aim for at least 30Mbps download and 5Mbps upload).

2. Update Graphics Drivers and Adjust Software

Outdated drivers and system software can lead to performance issues in Valorant. Ensure your graphics card drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) are up to date. Also, update your operating system to avoid compatibility problems.

Once updated, you can enable Reflex (i.e. Low Latency Mode) if you're using an NVIDIA GPU or Radeon Anti-Lag if you’re on an AMD platform.

Once enabled, restart Valorant for the feature to take effect

3. Adjust In-Game Graphics Settings

Valorant graphics optimization varies by hardware tier. However, before we begin, make sure your PC supports DirectX Version 11 or better and has an SSD installed. With that out of the way, here’s a breakdown of settings for low-end, mid-range, and high-end Valorant system requirements.

Valorant allows you to tweak in-game settings for better performance:

• Lower preset quality: This reduces the strain on your GPU and can boost FPS.
• Turn off VSync: It reduces Valorant input lag but may result in screen tearing.
• Set FPS cap: Match the FPS cap to your monitor’s refresh rate to ensure smooth gameplay.
• Enable Raw Input Buffer: This setting improves input processing by directly reading data from your mouse without interference from the operating system.

4. Manage Background Processes

Running multiple applications in the background can drastically reduce performance. Many apps auto-launch at startup and consume resources even when not in use (like Xbox Game Bar). Turning them off can free up system resources. Overlays from applications like Discord or NVIDIA GeForce Experience can cause frame drops, so consider switching them off during gameplay, too.

With Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS), you can also identify and shut down apps that use a lot of CPU or memory. If you're using antivirus software, check for UnrealCEFSubprocess.exe, which can consume a lot of CPU. If you can’t delete it or turn it off, adding it to your antivirus exceptions may help improve performance.

5. Try Different Valorant Servers

Server issues can lead to high latency and ping spikes, negatively impacting gameplay. Riot Games strategically places data centers to minimize latency for most players. To improve performance, consider using a VPN with servers located near Valorant's data centers.

For optimal gameplay, select a server closest to your physical location to reduce latency. That said, avoid overcrowded servers as they may lead to longer queue times and server load. If your ISP uses inefficient routing to Valorant servers, a VPN could improve your connection by offering better paths to the game servers.

Just make sure you select the right location in the Valorant server selection screen. Otherwise, you might increase the ping.

The Fastest VPN We Tested

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Speed

Our Score: 10.0

Stream shows and movies without buffering

Lightway protocol boosts connection speeds

Visit ExpressVPN

6. Optimize Windows for Gaming Performance

Adjusting certain Windows settings can also help improve gaming performance. Both Windows 10 and 11 have a built-in Game Mode that optimizes your system for gaming by prioritizing resources. Also, check if you have turned off Send optional diagnostic data in Windows settings, as it’s known to hog CPU resources.

This will reduce CPU usage and improve your Valorant FPS

If you’re using a Valorant laptop setup, configure your PC to the High-Performance mode, as this will allow the system to run at full capacity. If you don’t want your entire system to fire on all cylinders, just add Valorant to Windows Graphics Settings and set it to high performance.

7. Upgrade Your Hardware (If Necessary)

If the optimizations don’t fix your lag, upgrading your hardware may be necessary. For desktop users, upgrading your GPU or CPU could significantly improve performance. Outdated hardware may struggle with Valorant, especially at higher resolutions.

Since laptops don’t allow you to update your graphics cards or CPUs, you can add more RAM. For reference, Valorant requires at least 4GB of RAM, but 8 or 16GB is recommended for a smoother experience.

8. Set Up Port Forwarding

If your router is blocking access to Valorant servers, port forwarding can help improve your lag rate. This allows data to flow more freely between your device and Valorant servers, reducing lag and high ping.

To set it up:

• Log in to your router. Open a web browser and type the router’s IP address (it’s typically 192.168.0.1).
• Find the Port Forwarding settings. On most routers, the settings are under advanced networking options.
• Enter Valorant's ports: TCP: 5223, 8088; UDP: 7000-8000, 8180-8181.
• Save and restart your router. Then, fire the game as usual.

9. Tweak Valorant Configuration Files

Advanced users can improve performance by tweaking Valorant's configuration file (GameUserSettings.ini). This lets you manually lower settings, like shadow quality and post-processing effects, that aren't adjustable in-game to boost FPS. Always make a backup of the .ini file before making changes in case something goes wrong.

Settings in this file aren't available in-game

10. Resolve Software Conflicts

Sometimes, third-party software can conflict with Valorant and cause performance issues. If you’re using antivirus software, allowlist Valorant, as some antivirus programs may interfere with game files, causing lag or crashes.

Types of Lag in Valorant: Network, FPS, and Input Lag

Lag in Valorant is really frustrating, and understanding its different types is the first step toward solving the issue. Whether caused by network instability, hardware limitations, or peripheral settings, every kind of lag impacts gameplay differently. Below, we break down the three primary categories — network lag, FPS lag, and input lag — along with their symptoms, causes, and fixes.

Network Lag (High Ping and Packet Loss)

Valorant network lag, often referred to as latency, is caused by issues related to your internet connection. It affects how long it takes for data to travel between your device and the game’s server, resulting in delays during gameplay.

FPS Lag (Frame Drops)

FPS lag is related to the performance of your hardware, particularly your graphics card (GPU) and processor (CPU). Low FPS occurs when your system struggles to render the game at a smooth, consistent frame rate.

Input Lag

Input lag occurs when there is a delay between your actions (e.g., mouse clicks or keyboard inputs) and the game's response on screen. This lag can be caused by various factors, including display settings and the connection between your peripherals and the system.

The Fastest VPN We Tested

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Speed

Our Score: 10.0

Stream shows and movies without buffering

Lightway protocol boosts connection speeds

Visit ExpressVPN

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

How to Stay Safe While Playing Valorant

While Valorant offers a fun and competitive environment, it’s important to prioritize your safety while playing. This includes protecting your personal data, maintaining online security, and managing in-game interactions. Here’s how you can stay safe while enjoying the game:

• Use a VPN for network security. A VPN helps prevent DDoS attacks by hiding your IP address. It also encrypts your data for privacy protection.
• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). Protect your Riot Games account with a unique, strong password and enable 2FA for an extra layer of security.
• Avoid phishing scams. Be cautious of suspicious links and only trust official Riot Games communications to avoid phishing attempts.
• Manage in-game communication. Mute toxic players and report abusive behavior using Valorant’s built-in features.
• Don’t share personal information. Avoid sharing personal details with other players and keep conversations focused on the game.
• Keep your system secure. Use antivirus software, update your system regularly, and download Valorant only from official sources to avoid malware.
• Beware of cheating software. Avoid downloading cheats as they violate terms of service and may include malware, risking your account and system security.
• Secure your purchases. Use encrypted payment methods and regularly monitor transactions for any unauthorized charges.
• Recognize social engineering tactics. Be wary of too-good-to-be-true offers, and never share your login details or account access.
• Understand Valorant’s privacy settings. Adjust privacy settings to control who can interact with you and review Riot’s data handling policies.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs on Fixing Valorant Lag

Will using a VPN affect my Valorant account, or will I risk getting banned?

No, using a VPN for Valorant is legal and typically won't get you banned. However, if you use it to bypass regional restrictions or manipulate matchmaking, you could face penalties. That said, you should be fine using a VPN if it’s connected to your home region to avoid ISP throttling.

How do I choose the best Valorant server for low ping?

To get the lowest Valorant ping, choose the server closest to your location. Go to your VPN settings and manually select the server that corresponds to your region. Just make sure you avoid distant servers, even if they seem less crowded.

What Valorant settings should I change to reduce input lag?

Turning off VSync and enabling NVIDIA Reflex (if applicable) can help. Additionally, cap your FPS to match your monitor's refresh rate and lower graphics settings to free up system resources.

Can overclocking my CPU or GPU help reduce Valorant lag?

Yes, overclocking your CPU or GPU can improve performance and reduce lag by boosting clock speeds, leading to higher frame rates. However, ensure your system has proper cooling and stable overclocking settings to avoid blue screen errors or visual glitches (artifacting). Additionally, turn off background processes to free up resources for smoother gameplay.

Why is my Valorant lagging but the internet is fine?

Your Valorant lag might stem from hardware limitations, even with a stable internet connection. Check if your system meets the game's minimum specs. Then, turn off any background apps to free up resources. This may help improve performance.

How can I get 0 delay on Valorant?

It's impossible to achieve 0 delay. That said, you can minimize lag by using a wired connection, choosing the closest server, lowering graphics settings, and optimizing system resources for gaming.

How can I fix Valorant lag after an update?

Start by verifying the game files in the Riot client to ensure nothing is corrupted. Update your GPU drivers and system software to avoid compatibility issues. If the update increases the game's demands, lower in-game settings like textures and shadows. Lastly, check online forums for any known issues or patches related to the update. These steps should help resolve performance problems caused by updates.

Can I use a free VPN to fix Valorant lag?

A free VPN is unlikely to fix Valorant lag and may even increase it due to slow, overcrowded servers and limited bandwidth. For better results, use a premium VPN with fast, gaming-optimized servers and a money-back guarantee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fixing Valorant lag spikes, packet loss, and FPS drops requires a combination of solutions. This includes network optimization, hardware upgrades, and in-game settings adjustments.

By ensuring a stable internet connection, updating your drivers, adjusting graphics settings, and managing background processes, you can significantly reduce lag and improve gameplay. If necessary, consider using tools like port forwarding or a VPN to enhance network stability. With these solutions, you'll be better equipped to tackle Valorant lag issues and enjoy smoother, more competitive matches.