Microsoft is stepping up its game with the latest Windows 11 update by refining how Task Manager calculates CPU usage, aligning it more closely with third-party tools.
With this update, Microsoft seems to be acknowledging that the current performance metrics in Task Manager don’t quite match up to those provided by other specialized tools. As a result, they’re rolling out changes that will employ new methods for calculating CPU utilization. This means Task Manager is set to become significantly more effective.
In Microsoft’s own words, “We are beginning to roll out a change to the way Task Manager calculates CPU utilization for the Processes, Performance, and Users pages. Task Manager will now use the standard metrics to display CPU workload consistently across all pages and align with industry standards and third-party tools.”
While we’re still in the dark about the exact mechanics of the update, what is clear is that the new calculation method will be the same across all Task Manager pages—Processes, Performance, and Users. This consistency should eliminate discrepancies between Task Manager and third-party apps, providing native support for CPU monitoring. Instead of turning to alternatives like HWINFO, Task Manager itself will become the go-to for CPU tracking. We’ll just have to hang tight until the update is available to see the benefits in action.
For those who appreciate the current calculation system, Microsoft isn’t leaving you out in the cold. They’ve added a new optional column, CPU Utility, on the “Details” tab, allowing for backward compatibility. Currently, these enhancements are part of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360, within the 24H2 update. These improvements will gradually become available to all users, marking another step in Microsoft’s commitment to improving user experience.
