OptiScaler is a great bit of community innovation that lets you to convert one upscaling method to another and implement frame generation in games that do not natively support it. For example, you can take a game using AMD’s FSR upscaling and convert it to NVIDIA DLSS or XESS. It also supports converting frame generation types, enabling DLSS frame generation in games without native support. It's not perfect but improves a lot of games without having to spend extra moeny. So follow along as we take you through installation and configuration.

Takeaways:

  1. What's the best way to configure OptiScaler for performance and visuals?
  2. Learn how to set up and configure OptiScaler.

What is OptiScaler and How Does it Work?

On the OptiScaler GitHub page, you will find a chart showing supported input and output conversions. For example, FSR inputs can be converted to DLSS, including DLSS4’s transformer model. You can also convert FSR2 to FSR3 or use DLSS frame generation to output FSR frame generation. Additionally, NVIDIA Reflex latency reduction can be adapted to different techniques.

IMPORTANT: OptiScaler is ideal for single-player games. Using it in multiplayer games can lead to bans!

Before Anything, Check Compatibility!

The GitHub wiki has a compatibility list for supported games. For example, The Outer Worlds Spacers Choice Edition supports FSR2 only. Check your game and read the notes to adjust settings for AMD, Intel, or NVIDIA GPUs. Things are being added all the time so check back from time to time. Personally I've found it best to use with older games, rather than newer ones.

How to Set up and Use OptiScaler

  • Go to the official GitHub page for OptiScaler.
  • Download the latest version suitable for your system.
  • Find your game’s executable folder. For Epic Games, this is usually under Program Files > Epic Games > [Game Folder].

IMPORTANT: Don't use shortcuts; use the actual .exe file. Copy the contents of the OptiScaler download into this folder. If prompted, replace existing files.

  • Run setupWindows.bat from the OptiScaler folder.
  • Choose the proper renderer according to the compatibility list, such as DXGI, and select your GPU type.
  • For NVIDIA users, download the DLSS DLL from TechPowerUp. (Check it's the latest)
  • Place the DLL in the game directory to prevent crashes.
  • Optional: FSR4 DLL can be added to test the newest upscaling.
  • Launch the game. If everything is installed correctly, OptiScaler will activate without crashing.

How to Set up and Use OptiScaler on Windows

How to Configure OptiScaler

  • Once in-game, press Insert to open the OptiScaler menu.
  • The menu allows you to switch between upscalers such as FSR2, DLSS, XESS, or FSR4.
  • Adjust the input and output settings, including performance or quality profiles. (Some games may require restarting after changing profiles.)
  • Use the render preset override to select the optimal transformer model, such as DLSS4 K. This will use FSR2 input while outputting DLSS4 quality.

Note: Some games may have HUD jitter after enabling frame generation. OptiScaler provides a HUD fix option. Enable the extended HUD fix if needed to resolve visual glitches.

Frame rates may vary depending on the chosen model. FSR4 can improve visuals but may reduce performance compared to DLSS. You pretty much have to experiment with things until you find the one that gives you the best visual and performance mix.

OptiScaler also enables frame generation for games lacking native support. Options include FSR3, FSR3.1, or OPFG upscalers.

  • Activate the frame generation option and save the configuration.
  • Restart the game for the changes to take effect.