Valorant Raw Input Buffer: What Changed & Best Settings
Valorant raw input buffer used to be a visible mouse/input setting, but Riot later changed how it works. If you cannot find the setting anymore, that does not mean your game is broken.
Quick answer: Raw Input Buffer was introduced as a beta performance option, later turned on by default, and eventually removed as a configurable setting because it is enabled at all times for performance.
Last reviewed: August 2026. This guide is based on Riot patch-note changes, not outdated forum advice.
Valorant Raw Input Buffer Explained
Valorant raw input buffer was designed to improve how the game processes mouse input. In simple terms, raw input helps the game read mouse movement directly instead of relying on extra operating system layers. The buffer part changed how Valorant handled that input processing, especially for modern high-polling-rate mice.
When the setting first appeared, players often asked whether they should turn it on or off. That advice is now outdated for current Valorant builds because the setting is no longer treated the same way in the menu. If you are searching for it and cannot see it, the important thing is to check the current patch-note history rather than copying old screenshots.
What Changed With Raw Input Buffer?
| Patch stage | What happened | What it means now |
|---|---|---|
| Patch 3.07 | Raw Input Buffer was introduced as a beta option to improve input device processing. | Old guides started telling players to test it manually. |
| Patch 7.12 | The beta tag was removed and the default value changed from off to on. | Most players were expected to use it by default. |
| Patch 11.06 | The RawInputBuffer setting was removed as configurable and enabled at all times. | If the option is gone, that can be normal on newer builds. |
You can verify the history in Riot’s official notes: Patch 3.07 introduced the setting, and Patch 11.06 removed it as a configurable option while keeping it enabled.
Should You Turn Valorant Raw Input Buffer On?
On current builds where the setting is no longer visible, there is nothing to manually turn on. The practical recommendation is simple: keep Valorant updated, keep your mouse software stable, and focus on DPI, polling rate, Windows pointer settings and in-game sensitivity instead of hunting for a removed toggle.
If you are watching an old settings video, be careful. Older advice may show Raw Input Buffer as a menu option and say to turn it on. That advice made sense when the toggle existed, but it does not necessarily match the current settings screen.
Best Mouse Settings to Check Instead
DPI
Use a DPI you can control consistently. Many players prefer 400, 800 or 1600 DPI, then adjust Valorant sensitivity to reach a comfortable eDPI.
Polling Rate
Modern gaming mice may support 1000Hz, 2000Hz, 4000Hz or 8000Hz. Higher is not always better if it causes instability on your system.
Pointer Settings
Keep Windows mouse behavior consistent. Avoid changing several mouse settings at the same time because it makes testing harder.
How to Test Input Feel Safely
- Restart Valorant after changing mouse software settings.
- Use the same DPI and sensitivity for the full test.
- Play five minutes of practice range tracking and flicking.
- Play one deathmatch without changing settings.
- Watch for stutter, delayed movement, over-flicking or shaky aim.
- Change only one variable at a time.
Use the Valorant eDPI Calculator to check your final sensitivity number, and compare with the Valorant Pro Settings Database if you want a reference range.
Raw Input Buffer vs Sensitivity
Raw input buffer is about how the game processes mouse input. Sensitivity is about how far your crosshair moves when your mouse moves. These are not the same thing. If your aim feels bad, do not assume raw input is the problem. Your eDPI may be too high, your mousepad may be too small, or you may be changing settings too often.
FAQ
Why is Valorant Raw Input Buffer missing?
Riot removed the RawInputBuffer setting as a configurable option in Patch 11.06 and said it would be enabled at all times because it is more performant.
Did Valorant always use raw input?
Riot’s Patch 3.07 notes said Valorant had used Raw Input for devices since launch, while the Raw Input Buffer option adjusted the APIs used for processing raw input.
Should high polling-rate mouse users worry?
Use a stable polling rate that works well on your PC. If very high polling causes stutter, test a lower polling rate before changing sensitivity.
Related: Valorant eDPI Calculator · Valorant Sensitivity Converter · Best Valorant Settings
