Does your CPU limit the performance of your GPU?
Does your CPU limit the performance of your GPU?
I was testing AC Odyssey at 2560x1080 with Ultra settings, and I observed frequent stutters. The average FPS hovered between 37 and 43. Initially, I assumed the problem was with the GPU, but later noticed CPU usage jumping to 60% and then dropping to about 75% during those stutters. It seems my CPU might be limiting the performance of the GPU.
AC Odyssey
(2560x1080 - Ultra settings)
Reduce the graphics quality. Avoid preset adjustments; focus on individual settings that affect CPU load. Odyssey and Origins are among the most CPU-intensive titles available. Since you're using ultrawide mode, your CPU will be under greater strain, so further tweaking is necessary. Consider implementing FPS caps until CPU usage stabilizes. This is my approach, giving me the option to play at 45 FPS with a well-balanced custom graphic setup or opt for 60 FPS with even more refined adjustments. For optimal visuals, you might need to cap your FPS at 30. Your CPU performance seems stronger than expected, so you could comfortably achieve over 15 FPS compared to mine. That means 45 would be the upper limit for higher settings and 75 for lower ones.
The simplest method is using five benchmarks: Ultra, Very High, High, Medium, and Low. This will help you decide where to set your FPS cap and which graphic parameters to adjust.
The stuttering might stem from having only one 8GB RAM stick. In 2019, 16GB is the standard. Even if system specs suggest 8GB, if your usage exceeds 6GB and approaches 7GB, it signals a need for more memory. If your RAM consumption stays near 6GB, then memory isn't the issue for stuttering in AC Odyssey—8GB should suffice for this game. However, when usage nears 7GB, additional RAM becomes necessary.
If the problem isn’t related to RAM, the stuttering is likely due to high CPU utilization. Lower your graphic settings and cap your FPS to eliminate the issue.
I wouldn't assume RAM is the issue then. But having 16GB total remains essential in 2019. When you upgrade, I promise you won't regret it. It brings peace of mind in games requiring more than 8GB of RAM. Seeing smoother performance after the upgrade is truly impressive.
It's the same Ultra Wide I've used since 2017 with my GT430. I haven't played this game for a while until I started it again a few weeks ago, and the only change was updating the driver.
I've heard 399.24 is better for Pascal GPUs. I'm thinking about it.