CS2 Tick Rate & Subtick System: Complete Technical Guide 2025

CS2 Tick Rate & Subtick System: Complete Technical Guide 2025

By Marcus Chen

January 14, 2025 at 11:25 AM

The tick rate in CS2 determines how frequently the game server updates, while the new subtick system processes player actions between these updates for enhanced precision.

A 64-tick server updates 64 times per second, which is CS2's standard rate for matchmaking. While some third-party platforms prefer 128-tick servers (128 updates per second), Valve currently limits servers to 64 Hz.

CS2 subtick spread comparison

CS2 subtick spread comparison

The subtick system revolutionizes gameplay by:

  • Recording exact timestamps for player actions
  • Processing inputs between server ticks
  • Improving hit registration accuracy
  • Providing smoother movement and shooting

Key Features of the Subtick System:

  • Precise input timestamping
  • Real-time server calculations
  • Enhanced gameplay synchronization
  • Reduced delay between action and response

Man aiming with CS2 weapon

Man aiming with CS2 weapon

Current Challenges:

  • Some players report inconsistent hit registration
  • Increased server load from subtick processing
  • Ongoing debate about 64 vs 128-tick servers

Future Possibilities:

  • Server optimization improvements
  • Potential introduction of 128-tick servers
  • Further refinements to the subtick system

While the 64 Hz tick rate might seem limiting, the subtick system effectively bridges the gap between 64 and 128-tick servers. Valve continues to optimize the system based on player feedback, focusing on maintaining smooth, precise gameplay while managing server resources efficiently.

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