Magpie

The full write-up

Magpie is a free, open-source Windows utility for enlarging game and other content in a window or fullscreen. It is best for players who want to choose and tune visual effects rather than add frames. Its flexibility is a strong reason to try it; its Windows and DirectX requirements narrow who can use it. Overview Magpie centers on image scaling and post-processing, not a broad suite of game optimizations. Its range of algorithms, filters, and adjustable effects gives visually minded users room to tailor the result, while the focus on tuning may be more than someone seeking an automatic performance boost needs. The project uses GPLv3, and downloads are provided through GitHub Releases. The FAQ describes Magpie as non-intrusive and says there have been no reported bans, but cautions users to consider the risks. That caveat matters in games with strict rules. Direct3D capture can also capture RTSS performance-monitor overlays, which may result in duplicated on-screen statistics. Key features Windowed and fullscreen scaling: Support for both modes makes Magpie useful whether a player wants to enlarge a game in a desktop window or scale fullscreen content. Algorithms and filters: Built-in options include Anime4K, FSR, CRT shaders, and SGSR, a lightweight scaling algorithm designed for 3D content. The variety supports different visual priorities, though users must choose the effect that suits their content. Custom effects: Effects can be combined, and most have adjustable parameters. Users familiar with HLSL can add effects, a meaningful advantage for those willing to tune beyond presets. Interface and displays: Its WinUI interface offers light and dark themes, and Magpie supports multiple monitors. These details help it fit different desktop setups without changing its core focus on scaling. Screenshots and touch: A screenshot hotkey defaults to Alt+Shift+S, and screenshot filenames can be customized. Touch input has been supported since version 0.11, which broadens its use beyond mouse-and-keyboard setups. No frame generation: Magpie's FAQ says frame generation is not planned: the project prioritizes visual quality, and post-processing frame generation adds latency. Players specifically looking for generated frames should choose another approach. Pricing Magpie is free, with no paid tier or trial to weigh. The free plan is the complete stated offering: an open-source Windows window upscaler. Its GPLv3 license also makes the project’s source available under that license. Platforms Magpie runs on Windows 10 version 1903 or later, or Windows 11, and requires DirectX feature level 11. That makes it a poor fit for players on other operating systems or PCs that do not meet the graphics requirement. Who it's for Magpie suits players who care about how games and other content look, want several scaling choices, or are comfortable combining and adjusting effects. HLSL familiarity can unlock additional customization. It is less suitable for someone seeking frame generation, a general-purpose performance optimizer, or an option that runs outside Windows. Pros and cons Pro: Broad visual control. Multiple algorithms, filters, combinable effects, and adjustable parameters give users meaningful choice over image treatment. Pro: Useful desktop flexibility. Windowed and fullscreen scaling, multiple-monitor support, and touch input accommodate more than one kind of setup. Con: A narrow purpose. Magpie focuses on scaling and post-processing, so it does not address players whose priority is frame generation. Con: Compatibility and overlay caveats. It requires a qualifying Windows version and DirectX feature level 11, and Direct3D capture may duplicate RTSS overlays. The FAQ also advises users to weigh game-ban risks despite reporting none. Alternatives For a different graphics utility, see Graphics optimisers . Choose NVIDIA ShadowPlay instead if you want a free Windows tool from NVIDIA and have Windows 10 or 11, a supported GPU, and driver 551.52 or later. Smart Game Booster is a free-to-start Windows option with core features, basic and manual system boosting, and real-time FPS monitoring; its freemium model makes it a different fit from Magpie's visual-scaling focus. TargetFPS is a free web-based alternative. ARC Raiders Config Tuner is worth considering for a free, MIT-licensed option on Windows, SteamOS, or Linux. FrameCoach offers a free optimizer, settings guides, and Windows desktop app. Gaming Optimizer is another free Windows option, with a public repository under the MIT license. Hone may suit players seeking a free tier with 10 optimizations, up to 15 through referrals, and ad-supported features. Intel VTune Profiler is a free download for Windows or Linux, offered standalone or through Intel oneAPI Toolkit. Verdict Choose Magpie if you want a free Windows scaler with a substantial range of visual options and the ability to tune effects. Its main advantage is control over image treatment; look elsewhere if you need frame generation, broader performance tools, or support beyond Windows.