Arc Raiders DLSS, FSR, and Frame Generation Best Settings

Arc Raiders can gain a lot from upscaling, but the wrong mode can make the game look softer or feel worse than the extra FPS is worth. This guide helps you choose the best DLSS, FSR, and frame generation settings based on hardware tier and competitive priorities.

More FPS is useful only if the image stays readable and the game still feels responsive.

Best starting point for most players

If Arc Raiders offers multiple upscaling options, this is the safest starting setup:

Setting	Recommendation
Upscaling	DLSS or FSR
Preset	Quality
Sharpening	Low to Moderate
Frame Generation	Off at first, then test
V-Sync	Off
Frame Cap	Slightly below monitor refresh if needed

The Quality preset is usually the best balance between image clarity and performance. Move to Balanced only if you genuinely need more FPS in heavy areas.

Native vs Quality vs Balanced vs Performance

Native

Use native resolution if your GPU already gives you stable performance and clean frame pacing. It usually delivers the sharpest image, but it is not always the best choice if big fights cause drops.

Quality

This is the best preset for most players. It keeps the image cleaner than more aggressive modes while still giving a meaningful FPS gain.

Balanced

Balanced makes sense when native or Quality still feels too heavy. It is a practical middle ground for mid-range GPUs, especially at higher resolutions.

Performance

Use this only when you need every extra frame and you are willing to accept softer distant detail. In a visibility-heavy shooter, too much softness can hurt target tracking.

Should you use frame generation?

Frame generation can boost displayed frame rate, but it is not automatically the best competitive option.

Use it when

• your base FPS is already decent
• you want smoother motion on a high-refresh display
• the input feel still seems acceptable after testing

Avoid it when

• your base FPS is already too low
• you care more about raw responsiveness than visual smoothness
• the image gets too artifact-heavy in motion

If your priority is competitive feel first, test with frame generation off before turning it on.

Best settings by hardware tier

Entry-level or older GPUs

• use Balanced before dropping to Performance
• lower shadows and effects first
• keep sharpening conservative so the image does not look harsh

Mid-range GPUs

• start with Quality
• move to Balanced only if raids still feel unstable
• keep view distance high if possible for visibility

High-end GPUs

• test native first
• use Quality if you want better 1% lows or higher refresh headroom
• do not assume frame generation is necessary for competitive play

Upscaling and visibility

The wrong upscaling mode can make distant enemies harder to read. That is why you should judge these settings in live combat scenes, not just in menus.

Pay attention to:

• edge clarity on distant targets
• foliage and environmental detail
• how easy it is to track movement while turning
• whether the image becomes too soft in motion

For more visibility-focused advice, read Arc Raiders Best Visibility Settings for Competitive Play.

Upscaling and input feel

Higher FPS does not always mean lower input delay in the way the game feels to you. Frame generation especially can change the feel of mouse or controller response.

If the game looks smoother but aiming feels less direct:

1. turn frame generation off
2. keep upscaling on Quality
3. cap FPS more sensibly
4. disable V-Sync

Then compare again. If the game feels heavy overall, pair this with Arc Raiders Stuttering Fix: Stop FPS Drops and Frame Time Spikes on PC.

Recommended combinations

Best competitive balance

• Upscaling: Quality
• Frame Generation: Off
• V-Sync: Off
• Shadows and Effects: Low

Best for weaker PCs

• Upscaling: Balanced
• Frame Generation: Off at first
• Texture Quality: reduced if VRAM is tight
• Post Processing: Low

Best for high-refresh smoothness

• Upscaling: Quality
• Frame Generation: On only if base FPS is already strong
• Frame Cap: tuned to your display

Related guides

• Arc Raiders Best Visibility Settings for Competitive Play
• Arc Raiders Stuttering Fix: Stop FPS Drops and Frame Time Spikes on PC
• Arc Raiders Optimization Guide: Best Settings for Maximum FPS and Performance
• Best GPU Overclock Guide for Gaming

The best Arc Raiders DLSS and FSR setup usually starts with Quality, not the most aggressive preset. Prioritize a clean image and stable feel first, then test frame generation only if it improves smoothness without making the game harder to read or control.