Consider ways to reduce the load on an older CPU.
Consider ways to reduce the load on an older CPU.
I possess a 4c 4t intel core i5 4590. It reaches full performance with every game I play, and it keeps my GTX 970 between 40-70% depending on the titles. This issue occurs even with older games like GTA V, Minecraft, and Far Cry 4, which were released when this CPU was launched. Over the years, my computer has run smoothly without such heavy demands. Since both the CPU and GPU were released around the same time, they should be able to handle each other slightly better than just 40%. Before you ask, no—this isn’t causing overheating, and the settings I’m using are within the limits my GTX 970 can handle before memory problems arise. I ran Malwarebytes to check for viruses, but it came back clean (though I’m still open to the possibility). This is even more puzzling when compared to other benchmarks using the same CPU and similar GPUs at much lower usage with no performance drops. Anyone have any advice on how to resolve this?
This processor has always faced problems when trying to run GTA V. Even a 4770k model would have trouble maintaining 60 frames per second.
A fresh setup might be beneficial if background tasks aren't resolved. That would be problematic. Using Proton increases CPU usage, and the OP's problems stem from that, so adding more would be risky. W7 only works with DX11 and older versions, which could cause issues in many current games—especially since the OP mentions they play both old and newer titles. I wouldn't recommend W8 for an opponent.
Also verify your temperatures. If your cooler isn't working properly or is very dirty, your CPU might be slowing down due to heat. I didn't see the overheating warning, sorry. Still, what are your current temps?
This appears to be a problem across many titles, both old and recent. It's odd since a more modern GPU would make sense, but combining older hardware was actually quite typical at the time.
Everything runs only what’s essential. I believe the CPU is just too limited. I intended to purchase a replacement and even wrote about it, but I’ll hold off until Zen4 and Raptor Lake arrive. That’s why I aim to get the most out of this machine for the next six months or so.