Highly customized setup available, though it lacks maximum raw capability
Highly customized setup available, though it lacks maximum raw capability
Hi guys. In short, my rig has been working well overall, giving decent performance for most games. But when it comes to the more demanding titles, I still struggle to achieve a smooth experience. Some streamers with similar setups seem to handle them effortlessly, though mine often lags and stutters. I’m wondering if the issue lies with the motherboard, the RAM speed, or something else. I thought maybe the community has better insights than I do. My current RAM is 2400mhz.
To obtain an opinion on the RAM speed, consider sharing the specific RAM speed details. Are you utilizing an SSD? Which one? I’m not sure what you’re referring to by "open blowback". A blower is commonly known as a typical reference cooler. You definitely shouldn’t rely solely on design or manufacturer claims—verify your temperatures and ensure there’s no thermal throttling. Are all updates current? Your Windows seems a bit outdated. Regarding GPU drivers, when was the last time you restarted your system (actual reboots are best; recent shutdowns only put the system into hibernation). Could you confirm the time since then?
How do you compare yourself to streamers? Do they display FPS counters and mention their settings? How confident are you that they’re also running at 144Hz? Are you attempting to stream yourself? Some streamers use a second PC to manage the stream, which helps avoid performance drops.
Are you running any background tasks while playing? Watching a 1080p stream—even at 60Hz—can put a surprising strain on your system.
Ram speed is 2400mhz. The GPU has an open back design with two fans, and I also updated the drivers from Geforce Experience just yesterday. Regarding the reboot, I’m a bit puzzled about how shutting down the PC just hibernates—it’s confusing. Am I being too simple-minded or is this a long process? Also, regarding streamers, I watch their YouTube videos and check their Twitch or Mixer accounts for details, but I’m not trying to stream myself. I just enjoy the overall experience and use the optimal settings. They often post their settings there. Chrome is usually open in the background.
If "fast startup" is turned on (default setting), shutdown doesn't fully power off—it just restarts with a fresh boot. Experts suggest turning it off.
You need to close it when you play. It relies heavily on the GPU, especially if many websites are open. Your screenshot shows about 33% GPU usage. You don’t remember what you were doing, but if you weren’t gaming and just used normal apps, that’s the performance your game would use. Close any unused programs.
I don't usually do it. Graphic drivers are the only ones I refresh regularly. I get a BIOS update roughly once a year. Windows handles most driver updates itself.
You should mainly focus on Windows and GPU drivers. Running automatic updaters in the background will waste resources with little gain. Usually, programs prompt you to update at launch—so you only need to handle updates manually during troubleshooting (Windows and GPU drivers included).
For BIOS and motherboard updates, my method is: if it functions properly, leave it alone. You can use synthetic benchmarks to check if your system meets expected performance standards (Geekbench works well as a simple test).
I’m unlikely they’re running at 144Hz; it’s possible they’re not even displaying in 1080p. Don’t overlook how refresh rates and resolution differences affect performance. A 144Hz monitor doesn’t guarantee a 144Hz display.