Is a new solid-state drive causing frame rate drops in games?
Is a new solid-state drive causing frame rate drops in games?
I recently added a supplementary 480GB solid-state drive to my existing 240GB unit, aiming to expand my gaming capabilities on my computer. Prior to this upgrade, I hadn’t experienced any frame rate fluctuations in games. Specifically, before acquiring the additional SSD, I was able to play The Witcher 3 at a consistent 60 frames per second without encountering any problems. This held true for all previous titles that I played. However, I mention this because I don't believe it represents a performance bottleneck, particularly considering the recent release of The Witcher 3.
Following the installation of the new SSD, my initial test was with DOOM (2016). Because I’m particularly sensitive to stuttering and frame drops, I immediately observed the issue. Utilizing an FPS counter, I noted significant dips in performance – achieving rates between 140-180 fps on a 144Hz monitor before experiencing brief pauses of 0.5 seconds, dropping down to 30-50 fps, which created distracting and frustrating stuttering that diminished the game’s enjoyment. I then tested Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor, and it performed flawlessly with similar intermittent frame dips.
I subsequently downloaded Metro 2033 on the second SSD, quickly recognizing the anticipated stutter. To investigate further, I re-downloaded the game onto my original SSD – which included Windows – and found that the problem was resolved. Considering the demanding nature of these games, I monitored my system temperatures; the graphics card remained within acceptable limits (around 50-55°C), while the CPU reached its peak during DOOM, but maintained stable temperatures in the other tests, despite the continued stuttering and frame dips.
I'm seeking a resolution to this issue, and it’s strongly linked to the new SSD due to my prior lack of experience with similar problems. My system specifications are: Intel Core i5-6500, Radeon RX 480, 8 GB RAM, two SanDisk 2.5'' SSDs – a 240GB unit and a 480GB unit.
Installing applications and games onto a supplemental hard drive, particularly during configuration, involves the simultaneous transfer of data to both drives. Consequently, either disk may be utilized when a game attempts to retrieve assets, potentially resulting in performance lag. It’s recommended that you duplicate the 240GB SSD onto the larger 480GB SSD and employ it as your primary drive. Alternatively, you could utilize the original disk for storing personal files, thereby freeing up space on the main drive.
Installing applications and games onto a supplemental drive involves copying files to both drives during the initial configuration. This dual access can sometimes lead to performance hiccups, such as stuttering, while content is being read. It’s recommended to duplicate the 240GB SSD onto the larger 480GB SSD for your primary storage. Alternatively, you could utilize the original disk solely for storing personal files, thereby freeing up space on the main drive.
Jojesa:
Installing applications and games onto a supplemental hard drive involves file distribution across both drives during the initial configuration. Consequently, each drive may be utilized while a game attempts to retrieve data, potentially leading to frame rate drops. It’s recommended to duplicate the 240GB SSD onto the larger 480GB SSD as your primary storage device. Alternatively, you could retain personal files on the original disk to free up space on the main drive. This solution resolved the issue; after switching the 480GB drive to the primary SSD and placing games there, the stuttering ceased. Thank you.
I’m experiencing a similar issue to a Total System failure. I possess two SSDs: the initial one measures 480 gigabytes for Windows, while the second is 1 terabyte dedicated to storage and games. Furthermore, I encounter these interruptions even when CPU and GPU utilization are minimal despite high frame rates.
Could you clarify what’s implied when it's stated that game files are placed on both drives during installation?
Despite your problem appearing alike, it may be a different matter entirely.
During application, program, and game installations on a drive separate from the operating system’s boot disk, Windows places installation files on both drives.
The primary OS disk is where Windows stores configuration files, settings, and registry data.
Consequently, when launching an app, program, or game, Windows accesses both disks.