Best settings in CS2

Let’s begin by saying there isn’t a one-size-fits-all settings list in Counter-Strike 2. But, what I’ve collated will give you the best starting point for your Counter-Strike experience.

Best Settings in CS2

Video Settings

Video settings can be changed depending on the strength of your rig and your preferred player model size. Aspect ratios like 4:3 can dramatically change the width of a player model, making it feel easier to hit AWP shots or take duels from a distance.

Things like the resolutions can be changed depending on how many frames you need. The higher the frames typically means a better in-game feel. But if you’re getting 600fps and you’re on the lowest resolution, you may as well increase it.

CS2’s refresh rate will depend on your monitor’s refresh rate.

video cs2 settings list with my own selection — Change as you see fit. Screenshot by Dot Esports

Main Menu Background Scenery: Your pick
Brightness: 100 percent
Aspect Ratio: Normal 4:3
Resolution: 1440×1080
Display Mode: Fullscreen
Refresh Rate: 165hz

Advanced Video Settings

There are various bugged settings like boost player contrast. These will be fixed in time, so this requires you to keep your ear to the ground in case of changes. However, these will be perfect for right now.

While things like Shader detail might impact your FPS, some of these settings can give you a competitive edge. Seeing shadows through lighting and shading effects easily can be your ticket to noticing a player around a corner thanks to their body casting a massive shadow.

Shaders, Particle detail, and Ambient Occlusion are worth considering. These can be FPS drainers but if you compensate by dropping other settings, you can make it work.

Advanced settings in Counter-Strike 2 with CS2 model on the left side — My settings are the best for me. Screenshot by Dot Esports

Boost player contrast: Disabled
Wait for vertical sync: Disabled
Current video values preset: Custom
Multisampling Anti-Aliasing Mode: 4X MSAA
Global Shadow Quality: High
Model/Texture Detail: Medium
Texture Filtering Mode: Triilinear
Shader Detail: High
Particle Detail: Medium
Ambient Occlusion: Medium
High Dynamic Range: Performance
FidelityFX Super Resolution: Disabled (Highest Quality)

NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency: Enable + Boost

Audio Settings

These can be chopped and changed to suit your preference. I usually dislike the 10-second bomb timer because it can drown out the sounds of footsteps; even worse, it can throw off a clutch, and ruin your game. But, it can also save you from dying from the bomb when you’re too late.

I’m testing out the lowest volume for the 10-second bomb timer, but, I usually keep it off and listen to the speed at which the bomb ticks. This takes practice.