How Can I Figure Out How to Open NVIDIA Overlay While Gaming?

[charlesrich]

I recently installed new drivers and want to access performance stats, but I’m unsure how to open nvidia overlay properly. The shortcut doesn’t seem to work for me in some games. Is there a setting that needs to be enabled, or could another app be conflicting with it?

 

[megamind]

Usually it’s Alt + Z by default. First thing I’d check is GeForce Experience → Settings → make sure In-Game Overlay is turned on. Driver updates sometimes reset that toggle. Also try opening it on the desktop to confirm the shortcut works outside the game.

 

[AnnP111966]

Overlay issues are often caused by conflicts. Steam, Discord, MSI Afterburner, and Xbox Game Bar can all interfere. Try disabling other overlays one by one. Fullscreen exclusive mode can also block the NVIDIA overlay in certain older games.

 

[Emmawoods]

Step one: press Alt + Z.
Step two: nothing happens.
Step three: stare angrily at your keyboard.
Jokes aside, NVIDIA loves turning the overlay off after updates. Check the toggle it’s probably laughing at you silently.

 

[megamind]

I had the same problem and didn’t even know GeForce Experience had settings Turning on the in-game overlay fixed it instantly. I thought my keyboard was broken at first.

 

[TaylorTravels]

If Alt + Z doesn’t work, rebind the shortcut in GeForce Experience. Also ensure GeForce Experience is running in the background overlay won’t load if the service isn’t active. Reinstalling GFE can help if the overlay module is corrupted.

 

[captainghost]

Enable in-game overlay.
Disable other overlays.
Restart PC.
Works 90% of the time.

 

[HeatherMun]

For me, the issue was Discord overlay. Once I turned it off, NVIDIA overlay started opening normally in every game. Some competitive titles are especially picky about multiple overlays running.

 

[rebeccareed]

Honestly, NVIDIA overlay is hit or miss depending on the game. I just keep Alt + Z bound and make sure Steam overlay is off. After that, it mostly behaves… mostly.

 

[jameswill8520]

Everyone blames NVIDIA, but half the time it’s Windows Game Bar hijacking shortcuts. Disable Game Bar and suddenly “how to open NVIDIA overlay” stops being a mystery. Windows loves getting in the way.