NVIDIA Confirms Windows 11 January 2026 Update Causes Performance Drops and Visual Issues on GeForce GPUs

In a recent announcement, NVIDIA has confirmed that the January 2026 update for Windows 11 is causing significant performance drops and visual issues on systems equipped with GeForce GPUs. This revelation has raised concerns among gamers, content creators, and professionals who rely heavily on NVIDIA's graphics hardware for demanding applications.

The Nature of the Issues

Users reporting problems have noticed a decline in frame rates across various games and 3D applications following the Windows 11 update. Alongside the performance degradation, some have experienced visual anomalies including flickering, screen tearing, and texture corruption. The issues appear to be widespread, affecting multiple GeForce GPU models ranging from the RTX 20 series to the latest RTX 40 series.

NVIDIA's Official Response

NVIDIA acknowledged the compatibility problems on their official support channels and forums. The company stated they are actively working with Microsoft to identify the root cause and provide timely fixes. Meanwhile, NVIDIA recommends users roll back the Windows 11 update if severe performance or visual disruptions are encountered, or temporarily switch to an earlier stable driver version compatible with their current system.

Impact on Users

For gamers and professionals dependent on flawless graphics performance, these issues can disrupt workflows and reduce productivity. Many community members have voiced their frustrations on social media and tech forums, asking for a prompt resolution.

Workarounds and Temporary Solutions

• Rolling back the Windows 11 update to a previous stable version
• Reinstalling earlier GeForce drivers verified to be stable
• Disabling Windows Automatic driver updates temporarily
• Adjusting in-game settings to reduce graphics load until fixes are released

Looking Forward

NVIDIA and Microsoft are reportedly prioritizing this issue to release patches soon. Users experiencing problems are advised to keep their systems updated with official fixes and monitor NVIDIA’s support channels for announcements.

As Windows 11 evolves, ensuring compatibility with essential hardware like GeForce GPUs remains critical. This incident highlights the importance of thorough testing before rolling out major system updates.