Counter-Strike 2: Ultimate autoexec.cfg for Zero Input Lag

In Counter-Strike 2, “sub-tick” updates and the new Source 2 rendering pipeline have changed how the game processes inputs. While the game looks better than ever, many players experience “floaty” mouse movement or minor delays known as input lag. The autoexec.cfg is a specialized script file that forces the game to execute specific engine commands every time it launches. This guide focuses on neutralizing input lag, optimizing network buffers, and ensuring your mouse response is as raw and direct as possible.

Hardware Compatibility & Expectations

• Low-End PCs: Noticeable improvement in frame pacing (smoother feeling).
• High-Refresh Rate Monitors (144Hz+): Essential for maintaining the “snappiness” required for high-speed flick shots.
• NVIDIA Users: Specifically tuned to work alongside NVIDIA Reflex technologies.

Backup and Preparation

Before creating a new config, ensure you don’t have conflicting launch options in Steam.

1. Open Steam and right-click Counter-Strike 2.
2. Go to Properties > General > Launch Options.
3. Clear old FPS benchmarks or network tweaks to let the autoexec do its job.

File Location

The CS2 config folder has changed from the old CS:GO path. You can find it here: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg\

Note: Even though it is CS2, the folder path still uses the “Counter-Strike Global Offensive” directory name for legacy compatibility.

Best Config Settings

Create a new text file named autoexec.cfg (ensure it’s not autoexec.cfg.txt) and paste the following commands:

// GameEngineer.net - CS2 Zero Input Lag Config

// Mouse & Input
m_rawinput "1"
m_mouseaccel1 "0"
m_mouseaccel2 "0"

// Network & Sub-tick Optimization
cl_interp "0.031000"
cl_interp_ratio "1"
cl_lagcompensation "1"
cl_predict "1"
cl_predictweapons "1"

// Video & Rendering Tweaks
fps_max "0" // Set to 0 for uncapped or match your monitor refresh + 1
r_drawtracers_firstperson "0" // Improves focus and minor FPS gain
r_show_build_info "false" // Cleans up UI

// Audio Latency
snd_headphone_pan_exponent "2"
snd_mixahead "0.01" // Ultra-low audio buffer for faster sound cues

// Execute Finalization
host_writeconfig
echo "--- GameEngineer.net Autoexec Loaded Successfully ---"

Key Parameters Explained

Parameter	Recommended Value	Impact
cl_interp	0.031000	Aligns player positions more accurately with the sub-tick system.
snd_mixahead	0.01	Reduces the delay between an action (shot) and its sound effect.
fps_max	0	Uncapping FPS reduces frame latency (input lag) at the cost of higher heat.
m_rawinput	1	Bypasses Windows mouse settings for 1:1 precision.
host_writeconfig	N/A	Essential command that saves these settings to the internal registry.

In-Game Settings vs. Config

To get the most out of this autoexec, match these settings in your CS2 Video menu:

• NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency: On + Boost.
• Vertical Sync: Disabled (The biggest cause of input lag).
• Multisampling Anti-Aliasing Mode: 2x or 4x MSAA (Lowering this too much makes player edges blurry).

Troubleshooting & Common Fixes

• Autoexec Not Loading: If the settings don’t apply, go to Steam Launch Options and add +exec autoexec.cfg.
• Sound Popping: If your audio crackles, change snd_mixahead from 0.01 to 0.02.
• Screen Tearing: If uncapped FPS (fps_max 0) causes too much tearing, cap your FPS at your monitor’s refresh rate (e.g., fps_max 144).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion and Expected Results

By implementing this autoexec.cfg, you are optimizing the communication between your peripherals and the Source 2 engine. Users typically report a “snappier” mouse feel and more consistent hit registration. For the best results, ensure your Windows “Mouse Acceleration” (Enhance Pointer Precision) is also turned off.