CPU or GPU issue?
CPU or GPU issue?
Looks like you have a resource hogger in play. Most likely some software or incompatible driver.
To see which programs hog your system resources, download and run Process Explorer,
link:
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinte...s-explorer
Guide on how to understand it,
link:
https://www.howtogeek.com/school/sysinte...o/lesson2/
Hi Aeacus,
Thank you for your message. I’ve reviewed the guide and downloaded the software, testing it while attempting to play a game and browsing the web. It seems there isn’t a specific issue detected. The CPU usage fluctuates between 2-6 when the game runs, and the 'system Idle Process' stays in the range of 92-98 even without a game active. All other CPU readings are either paused or show less than 0.01.
Are there any additional metrics you should monitor, or would you like me to run a diagnostic report?
Examine the Process Explorer during the slowdown, as that's the problem.
Until the cause of the slowdown is identified, running tests or benchmarks is unnecessary.
Cleaning Win usually resolves any software problems you might be facing. If you're unsure about handling it yourself, consider taking your computer to a repair service for assistance.
Please note that you'll lose all personal data on your operating system drive. That's why I included a guide so you can begin learning and understanding how to use Process Explorer.
Computers, in fact, perform exceptionally well,
IF
you don't pay attention and maintain them in optimal condition.
This applies similarly to cars. If you drive your vehicle daily without proper maintenance, parts will wear down and eventually fail. You'd then face the same issues: "I just want to drive my car, but it keeps breaking down." <- Indeed, that's what happens if you neglect it.
Returning to PCs;
Proper OS/software upkeep and optimization for smooth performance includes (what I do with my system):
Spoiler:
Click here to view
Temperature monitoring
HWinfo64 (includes detailed logging),
link:
https://www.hwinfo.com/download.php
Monitoring applications
Process Explorer (to identify which programs consume excessive resources),
Download link and guide I previously shared.
Refining application settings
Autoruns (to set up automatic startup of programs at boot),
link:
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinte...s/autoruns
CCleaner (to remove temporary files, including registry cleanup),
link:
https://www.ccleaner.com/ccleaner/download
Protection against malware
MalwareBytes Premium (also blocks infected sites during web browsing),
link:
https://www.malwarebytes.com/
MalwareBytes has three versions:
Standard (available after the 14-day trial ends) – suitable for manual system scans.
Trial (14 days free Premium) – includes all Premium features beyond Standard (Browser Guard, scheduled scans, real-time protection, etc.).
Premium (paid version) – full package, including everything from the 14-day trial, plus a VPN option.
Web browser
Besides standalone tools, I also use browser extensions to enhance security. My favorites are:
HTTPS Everywhere (Firefox extension)
Decentraleyes (Firefox extension)
uBlock Origin (Firefox extension)
MalwareBytes Browser Guard (Firefox extension, part of Premium)
NoScript (Firefox extension)
I categorize these into three complexity levels:
Casual user – HWinfo64, MalwareBytes (including Browser Guard), HTTPS Everywhere
Power user – Process Explorer, Decentraleyes, uBlock Origin
Super user – Autoruns, CCleaner, NoScript
You can begin with the Casual User level tools, which cover temperature monitoring, malware scanning, and basic web protection.
The MalwareBytes Trial offers a 14-day free Premium subscription, allowing you to explore its features for two weeks. After the trial ends, manual scans remain possible, but Browser Guard, scheduled scans, etc., are disabled since they're part of the Premium suite. I currently use the Premium package on my main PC (Skylake), my partner's PC (Haswell), and even my smartphone.
HWinfo64 is excellent for tracking temperatures, especially if you have a laptop—likely indicating overheating, which can impact gaming FPS.
HTTPS Everywhere is a handy extension that forces secure HTTPS connections over HTTP, enhancing your browsing safety.
I also recommend Power User level software.
Process Explorer should be your first focus when learning to use it. It's ten times more powerful than the built-in Task Manager. While Task Manager highlights only a few running apps, Process Explorer shows all of them. I've attached a guide to help you understand it.
Decentraleyes and uBlock Origin both effectively remove ads from browsing (most malware enters through these ads). They generally work automatically, but some sites may detect their use and require temporary disabling for full access. That's why I placed them in this category.
However, I don't recommend Super User level software.
Autoruns and CCleaner can damage your operating system if misused. There are guides available to learn how to use them properly, but I advise starting with Process Explorer first.
NoScript will significantly impair your web browser by blocking all scripts from websites. While it disrupts site functionality, you retain full control—deciding whether each script is safe to run. It's complex but gives you maximum browsing power.
In terms of consoles:
They come pre-installed and require connected cables. But do you think they're free from software issues? Probably not.
Have you heard of the Xbox Red Ring of Death? If not, search for it. For context, Xbox's RRoD is similar to Windows' BSoD (Blue Screen of Death) and Linux's Kernel Panic.
Besides RRoD, some users face hardware upgrade limitations. The best solution is to expand storage via an external USB drive. CPU, RAM, GPU, and power supply cannot be upgraded. Thus, you're limited by what Xbox offers. Given the typical release cycle of about every 10 years, after roughly five years, most PCs will struggle against modern systems—even today some PCs outperform the latest Xbox Series X.
You must weigh your options:
Choose Xbox if you can live with its limitations.
Opt for a PC and start learning how to maintain it for optimal performance.