Category TF2, TF2 Guides

TF2 Console Commands

Author William Westerlund Published on 3 min read
Learn all the TF2 console commands that you might want to use during games.

Team Fortress 2 offers a variety of console commands that allow players to customize their gameplay experience, optimize performance, and experiment with different settings.

The in-game developer console provides access to these commands, enabling advanced users to tweak various aspects of the game.

Enabling the Console

TF2 Console Commands

Before using console commands in Team Fortress 2, you need to enable the developer console:

  1. Open TF2 and go to Options.
  2. Navigate to the Keyboard tab and click on Advanced.
  3. Check Enable developer console (~) and click OK.
  4. Press the ~ (tilde) key to open the console.

As a side note, keep in mind that sv_cheats can only be used offline.

Essential Console Commands

TF2 Useful Console Commands

These are the most important TF2 commands to know:

Performance and FPS Optimization

• cl_showfps 1 – Displays FPS (Frames Per Second) in the top-right corner.
• net_graph 1 – Shows a detailed performance graph, including FPS, ping, and server tick rate.
• mat_queue_mode 2 – Enables multi-threaded rendering for better performance.
• r_lod 0 – Forces highest model detail level.
• fps_max 0 – Removes FPS cap for maximum performance.

Network and Ping Optimization

• rate 786432 – Adjusts the maximum data rate for optimal performance.
• cl_interp 0.0152 – Adjusts interpolation delay to reduce lag.
• cl_updaterate 66 – Sets the update rate to 66 packets per second (matches server tick rate).
• cl_cmdrate 66 – Synchronizes command rate with the server for smooth gameplay.

Viewmodel and Crosshair Tweaks

• viewmodel_fov 90 – Adjusts weapon field of view (FOV) to maximize screen space.
• cl_crosshairscale 500 – Changes crosshair size (lower values make it larger).
• cl_crosshaircolor 5 – Customizes crosshair color.

Customizing HUD

• hud_fastswitch 1 – Enables quick weapon switching without menu delays.
• cl_hud_minmode 1 – Simplifies HUD elements for a cleaner interface.
• cl_autoreload 1 – Enables automatic reloading after firing.

Bots and AI Control

• bot_add – Adds a bot to the game.
• bot_kick all – Removes all bots from the match.
• bot_zombie 1 – Makes bots passive and non-aggressive.

Gravity and Physics

• sv_gravity 200 – Lowers gravity for moon-like jumps.
• sv_gravity 800 – Restores default gravity.

Advanced Server and Debugging Commands

• sv_cheats 1 – Enables cheat commands (only works in private servers).
• noclip – Allows free movement through walls (requires sv_cheats 1).
• god – Activates invincibility mode (requires sv_cheats 1).
• status – Displays player information and server details.
• record [filename] – Starts recording a demo for later playback.
• stop – Stops recording the demo.

Summary

TF2 console commands

TF2 console commands provide a powerful way to enhance gameplay, improve performance, and customize the game to fit your playstyle. Whether you’re optimizing FPS, tweaking your HUD, or experimenting with cheats in a private match, mastering these commands can elevate your TF2 experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enable console commands in TF2?

Just enable the Developer Console from the Options menu. You will find it in the Keyboard tab, in Advanced.

What is the console command for TF2 chat?

The commands are say (for public chat), say_team (for team chat), and say_party (for party chat).

How to fix TF2 lag with console commands?

To fix TF2 lag using console commands, try cl_interp 0, cl_interp_ratio 1, and rate 786432 to optimize hit registration and network data. Also use mat_queue_mode 2 for multi-core rendering and fps_max 0 to unlock framerate. Test settings to find what works best for your system.

What’s the best crosshair command for TF2?

The best TF2 crosshair command depends on your preference, but a common choice is cl_crosshair_file crosshair5 for a clear, static cross. Combine it with cl_crosshair_scale 32 and cl_crosshair_red 255 for visibility. Adjust scale and color to fit your playstyle and screen resolution for optimal aiming.

Can you get banned for TF2 console commands?

No, you won’t get banned for using legitimate TF2 console commands that adjust graphics, crosshairs, or network settings. However, using commands or scripts that exploit the game or give unfair advantages, like aim assistance or anti-recoil hacks, can trigger VAC bans. Stick to safe, documented commands for optimization.

Posted by
William Westerlund

William is an author, editor, and an avid gamer with over 10.000 hours in CS:GO (Counter-Strike 2). He also enjoys playing Rust, Dota 2, and TF2 but never became a top 1% player in any of those games.

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