01.Introduction: The Source Engine at its Limit
Apex is resource-heavy. It renders massive maps using the Titanfall 2 engine. Default settings like "Volumetric Lighting" and "Sun Shadows" kill FPS.
In this guide, we'll modify the videoconfig.txt file to disable shadows that the in-game menu doesn't allow, ensuring visibility and high frames.
Don't do it Manually.
Voltris Optimizer automates this entire guide and removes Windows delay in seconds.
02.Chapter 1: In-Game Settings (The Basics)
Texture Streaming Budget
Recommended: None or Very Low (2GB)
This reserves VRAM for textures. If you set it to High (6GB) and your GPU has 6GB, the game will stutter when Windows needs VRAM. Leave it at None/Very Low to ensure you never run out of VRAM for the frame buffer. The textures might look ugly, but the game runs smooth.
Volumetric Lighting
Recommended: Disabled
Sunlight passing through dust. Beautiful, but it blinds you and eats 20 FPS. Turn it off.
Model Detail
Recommended: Low
Reduces the geometric complexity of distant objects. Essential for stability.
03.Chapter 2: videoconfig.txt (Shadow Hack)
The menu doesn't let you turn everything off. Let's edit the file:
%userprofile%\Saved Games\Respawn\Apex\local\videoconfig.txt
"setting.csm_coverage" "0"
"setting.csm_cascade_res" "16" // (Minimum possible)
"setting.r_lod_switch_scale" "0.6" // (Reduces rendering distance for small objects)
"setting.bnao_enabled" "0" // (Disables Ambient Occlusion at low level)
Important: After saving, right-click the file > Properties > Check "Read-only". If you don't do this, Apex resets everything upon opening.
04.Chapter 3: Autoexec and Launch Options
In Steam/EA App > Game Properties > Launch Options:
-dev -preload -fullscreen -refresh 144 -forcenovsync
- -dev: Removes the (loud) intro animation.
- -preload: Attempts to pre-load assets into RAM (helps with HDDs, use with caution on systems with low RAM).
- -refresh 144: Forces the Hz (change it to your monitor's).
Autoexec.cfg: Respawn blocked most cfg commands in 2021. Nowadays, cfgs focus more on binds (Superglide) than graphics.
A1.Chapter 4: DX12 Beta
Apex has launched support for DirectX 12 (Beta).
Add -eac_launcher_settings SettingsDX12.json to your launch options.
2026 Verdict: DX12 better utilizes multiple CPU cores. If you have an AMD GPU or RTX 4000 series and suffer from CPU bottlenecking, DX12 can increase your minimum FPS (1% lows) and make the game smoother, even though maximum FPS may not change much. It's worth testing.
A2.Chapter 5: Superglide and FPS Cap
Superglide is a movement mechanic that depends on FPS. It's easier to hit the timing with lower FPS.
Some pros lock their FPS to specific values (e.g., 144 or 180) via RivaTuner or the +fps_max 144 command to ensure movement consistency. Don't leave it unlimited if it fluctuates significantly.
A3.Chapter 6: Nvidia Reflex
As always, On + Boost.
Apex naturally has high system latency. Reflex is mandatory.
If you have AMD, enable Radeon Anti-Lag in the driver (there is no option in-game).
A4.Chapter 7: FOV and Performance
Almost every pro uses a FOV of 104 or 110.
High FOV = More peripheral vision, but enemies appear smaller (harder to aim) and FPS drops slightly (it renders more things).
If you can't see the enemy well, try lowering the FOV to 104 or 100.
Chapter 8: Audio (PC Equalizer)
Apex's audio is famous for being "broken" (silent footsteps).
Don't rely on the game. Use an external equalizer (Equalizer APO) to boost high frequencies (4k-8k Hz) where footsteps and reloads occur.
Chapter 9: Adaptive Resolution (FPS Target)
Apex has "Adaptive Resolution FPS Target." Set it to 0 (Off).
If you turn it on, the game will blur the entire screen whenever the FPS drops, making it impossible to aim. It's better to have FPS drops with a sharp image than to maintain FPS with a pixelated one.
Chapter 10: Temporary File Cleanup
Each season, Apex accumulates junk.
Perform a "Repair" of the game on Steam/EA App after every major update to verify file integrity and remove duplicate assets.
Don't do it Manually.
Voltris Optimizer automates this entire guide and removes Windows delay in seconds.
Written by a verified expert
Douglas Felipe M. Gonçalves
Expert in Windows system optimization with years of experience in hardware diagnostics, kernel tuning, and advanced technical support. Founder of Voltris and developer of the Voltris Optimizer.
Meet the Voltris TeamConclusion and Next Steps
By following this guide on Apex Legends Optimization (2026): Maintaining Constant 144Hz, you are equipped with the verified technical knowledge to solve this issue with confidence.
If you still have difficulties after following all steps, our expert support team is available for a personalized remote diagnosis. Every system is unique and may require a specific approach.