Fast diagnosis
- Switch temporarily to a simple built-in or lightweight scene.
- Lower the wallpaper FPS limit.
- Set fullscreen and maximized applications to Pause or Stop.
- Disable heavy wallpaper properties such as reflections or high particle counts.
- Check Task Manager again after each change.
Why it happens
Complex web wallpapers, high-resolution video, uncapped frame rates, multiple displays, and interactive effects can all increase GPU work.
When to investigate further
If usage remains high on a basic wallpaper while the desktop is idle, verify files and review graphics-driver or overlay conflicts.