Can I Run Counter-Strike 2?
2023 · Shooter · Check your PC against the official system requirements below.
Counter-Strike 2 system requirements
| Requirement | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | 4 hardware CPU threads - Intel Core i5 750 or higher | Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or better |
| Graphics (GPU) | Video card must be 1 GB or more and should be a DirectX 11-compatible (GTX 660) | NVIDIA GTX 1060 6GB / AMD RX 580 |
| Memory (RAM) | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Video memory | 1 GB | 6 GB |
| Storage | 85 GB | 85 GB |
Source: published system requirements
Counter-Strike 2 carries famously light official requirements, listed by Valve as four hardware CPU threads, an Intel Core i5 750 or higher, 8 GB of RAM, and a DirectX 11 graphics card with at least 1 GB of VRAM such as a GTX 660. Those figures let almost any modern machine launch the game and reach playable frame rates at lower settings and 1080p. The Source 2 engine, sub-tick networking, and reworked smoke effects do add overhead compared with the old CS:GO, so older integrated graphics may struggle to stay consistently above 60 fps.
There is a clear difference between simply running Counter-Strike 2 and competing in it. The game is built around fast reactions, and serious players target 144, 240, or even 360 fps to match high-refresh monitors. Reaching those numbers reliably calls for a modern six-core CPU like a Ryzen 5 3600 or Core i5-9600K paired with a GTX 1060-class GPU or better, with stronger cards needed for 240 fps and above. CPU single-thread speed matters most for frame rate, so a faster processor often helps competitive play more than a bigger graphics card.
Frequently asked questions
Can I run Counter-Strike 2 on a low-end PC?
Yes. The official minimum is just 8 GB of RAM, a 4-thread CPU like an Intel Core i5 750, and a 1 GB DirectX 11 card such as a GTX 660, so most machines from the last decade can launch and play it at lower settings.
What do I need for 144 fps in Counter-Strike 2?
For steady high-refresh competitive play, a modern six-core CPU such as a Ryzen 5 3600 or Core i5-9600K with a GTX 1060 6GB or RX 580 class GPU is a sensible target. Even faster CPUs and GPUs help push toward 240 fps and beyond.
How much storage does Counter-Strike 2 need?
Counter-Strike 2 requires roughly 85 GB of available drive space. An SSD is strongly recommended for faster map loading and smoother texture streaming.