CS2 Config File Guide: Autoexec, Video Settings and Custom Configs

5 min read

Understanding CS2 Configuration Files

CS2 stores your settings in configuration files that can be manually edited, backed up, and shared. Understanding these files lets you create custom autoexec scripts, share configs with friends, and quickly set up your settings on new computers.

Config File Locations

CS2 config files are stored in your Steam userdata folder:

Steam/userdata/[YOUR_STEAM_ID]/730/local/cfg/

Key files:

• cs2_machine_convars.vcfg — Machine-specific settings (resolution, video)
• cs2_user_convars_0_slot0.vcfg — User settings (sensitivity, crosshair, keybinds)
• cs2_video.txt — Video settings

Creating an Autoexec File

An autoexec is a config file that runs automatically every time CS2 starts. It ensures your custom settings are always applied.

How to Create

1. Navigate to your CS2 cfg folder (path above)
2. Create a new text file and rename it to autoexec.cfg
3. Add your commands (one per line)
4. Add host_writeconfig as the last line to save settings
5. In CS2 launch options, add +exec autoexec.cfg

Example Autoexec

Here is a solid starting autoexec for competitive play:

// CS2 Competitive Autoexec
// Network
rate 786432
cl_interp_ratio 1

// Crosshair
cl_crosshairsize 2
cl_crosshairgap -2
cl_crosshairthickness 0.5
cl_crosshaircolor 1
cl_crosshair_drawoutline 1
cl_crosshairstyle 4

// Audio
snd_musicvolume 0
snd_tensecondwarning_volume 0.15

// Viewmodel
viewmodel_fov 68

// Performance
fps_max 0
engine_low_latency_sleep_after_client_tick true
r_drawtracers_firstperson 0

// Keybinds
bind mwheeldown +jump
bind c "toggle cl_righthand 0 1"

// Save
host_writeconfig

Sharing Your Config

To share your complete config with a friend or use it on another computer:

1. In CS2 console, type host_writeconfig myconfig
2. This creates myconfig.cfg in your cfg folder
3. Share the file
4. The recipient places it in their cfg folder and types exec myconfig in console

Most Important Config Settings

• sensitivity — Mouse sensitivity (use with your DPI for eDPI calculation)
• zoom_sensitivity_ratio — Scoped sensitivity multiplier (default 1.0)
• cl_crosshair* — All crosshair-related settings
• cl_righthand — Left (0) or right (1) handed weapon model
• viewmodel_fov — Weapon model field of view (54-68)
• cl_hud_color — HUD accent color (0-10)
• rate — Network bandwidth (786432 for maximum)
• volume — Master volume (0.0-1.0)

Always Backup Your Config

Before making changes, backup your cfg folder. Copy the entire cfg directory to a safe location. If something goes wrong, you can restore your settings instantly. Consider keeping your config in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for easy access on any computer.

Conclusion

Config files give you complete control over your CS2 experience. Create an autoexec with your essential settings, back it up to the cloud, and you will never lose your setup again. Whether you are setting up a new PC or fine-tuning your existing config, understanding these files puts you in full control of your competitive setup.