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How Do I Fix Input Lag in Iracing
Got input lag in iRacing? This guide helps iRacing drivers fix it fast: turn off VSync, stabilize FPS, tune FFB, and get crisp, instant steering response today.
If you’re asking “how do i fix input lag in iracing,” the fastest fixes are to turn off VSync, cap FPS just below your monitor refresh, and keep a high, stable frame rate. You’re in the right place—follow these steps and your steering, pedals, and screen will feel snappier in minutes.
Quick Answer: how do i fix input lag in iracing
Turn VSync off, enable G‑Sync/FreeSync if your monitor supports it, and cap your FPS 2–3 below your monitor’s refresh (e.g., 141 on 144 Hz). Run exclusive full screen, lower heavy graphics to keep FPS stable, and reduce FFB smoothing/damping. Plug your wheel directly into the PC and update drivers/firmware.
What’s really going on
“Input lag” is the delay between your hands/feet and what you see or feel. In iRacing, most delay comes from your display pipeline (VSync and unstable frame times), not the internet connection. If frames arrive late or are queued, your steering shows up a frame or two later.
Force feedback (FFB) filtering and wheel software can also add a small delay. Clean, steady frame pacing plus minimal filtering makes the car feel immediate.
Step-by-step fix
Kill VSync and cap FPS
In iRacing Options > Graphics, turn VSync Off. In your GPU panel (NVIDIA/AMD), set VSync Off for iRacing. If you have G‑Sync/FreeSync, enable it and cap FPS 2–3 below refresh (use iRacing’s frame cap or RTSS).Run exclusive full screen
Use Full Screen (not windowed/borderless). Disable overlays that hook the game (Xbox Game Bar, Discord, Steam, GeForce overlay) to avoid extra latency.Stabilize your frame rate
Lower heavy settings: shadows, reflections, mirror detail/cars, crowds, particles, and AA. Prioritize a rock‑steady FPS over pretty visuals. Aim for 120+ FPS on 120/144 Hz displays.Cut input device delay
Plug your wheel and pedals directly into the motherboard USB (avoid hubs). Update wheel drivers/firmware (Logitech G Hub, Thrustmaster, Fanatec, Simucube). In iRacing, keep FFB Smoothing low (0–2) and minimize damping in your wheel software.Reduce render queueing
NVIDIA: set Low Latency Mode On (or Ultra). AMD: enable Anti‑Lag. Optional: turn on Windows Game Mode. Hardware‑accelerated GPU scheduling can help on some systems—try it and keep whatever feels better.Fix display settings
Set your monitor to its native refresh in Windows. On TVs, enable Game Mode to remove processing. Use DisplayPort or modern HDMI and disable any motion smoothing on the display.
Extra tips / checklist
- Consistency beats spikes: a locked 120 FPS feels better than 160 that tumbles to 90.
- Turn off in‑game motion blur and lower mirror draw distance.
- Close browsers/launchers; use the High Performance power plan.
- VR users: target a stable refresh (90/120) and minimize motion smoothing.
- Don’t chase “0 ms” FFB—some damping helps control, just avoid excessive smoothing.
FAQs
Q: Is this netcode or ping?
A: No. Network lag affects other cars. Input lag is local—display, GPU, and wheel settings.
Q: Should I use VSync in iRacing?
A: Generally no. Use G‑Sync/FreeSync with an FPS cap a few frames under your refresh to avoid tearing and keep latency low.
Q: What FPS cap for 144 Hz?
A: 141–142 FPS works well. For 165 Hz, cap at 162–163. Keep it steady.
Q: Does FFB smoothing add delay?
A: Yes, a little. Keep smoothing low (0–2) and avoid heavy damping unless you need stability.
Short wrap‑up
The fast path is simple: VSync off, G‑Sync/FreeSync on, cap a few FPS below refresh, and hold a steady frame rate. Trim FFB filtering and keep your wheel on a direct USB port. Test at a busy track; if it feels instant there, it’ll feel great everywhere.
