Is your computer slowing down? Noticeable lag when playing games.
Is your computer slowing down? Noticeable lag when playing games.
Hello! Im trying to diagnose if something is wrong with my computer.
I think that something is wrong because i have alot of stutters in old games with every option set to low, for example PUBG and Fortnite (fps can go from 80/90 to 20/30 with stutters all game long). While 1 or 2 years ago when i used to play these games i had no problem at all. Also i saw a lot of youtube videos where they show my same setup in those games, medium to high graphics settings with no problem at all (no stutters and higher fps overall)
To be honest i have no idea where to start, maybe you guys can guide me through this journey. I will really appreciate it!
My setup is:
I5 4690
EVGA GTX 970 (drivers up to date)
16GB RAM (4x4gb)
GA-H97-Gaming 3
Any more info needed please tell me and i will try to respond asap.
Thanks!!
I would start with clean windows and driver installation, It's also an old system, CMOS battery may have lost power abd BIOS is running at bare minimum settings with no optimization.
I completed a clean windows installation four years ago and don’t have too many applications running, so it’s reasonable. Should I still go ahead and format and install again?
I’ll replace the battery today and will keep you informed!
When operating the stock cooler, check that it is firmly attached and does not move when turned off.
I'm sure the issue lies with your old Devil's Canyon CPU. It was released about ten years ago and isn't a non-K model, so overclocking isn't possible.
The lack of improvement when changing settings suggests a CPU bottleneck. This is because the CPU always makes the same number of requests to the GPU, no matter the resolution or graphics options. Lowering graphics settings helps with GPU stuttering but won't fix CPU-related delays. I think this explains why turning it down doesn't give you any benefit.
Hi, I followed your instructions, switched the battery, and RAM is operating at the highest speed the motherboard supports, which is 1600MHz. I also adjusted two other settings—CPU clock ratio from AUTO to x39 and another unspecified setting. After running a CPU benchmark, the final score was 3471. I’m unsure if anything is wrong with this setup; honestly, the only thing visible is that the CPU isn’t running at 3.9GHz, which seems fine.
Hi, I’m not using the original cooler; I’m using a Cooler Master model, probably the Hyper 212.
Yes, you’re correct. The CPU is quite old, but unfortunately I can’t afford an upgrade right now due to various circumstances and the high cost of technology in my country. Still, I don’t understand why others with similar configurations don’t face these issues. For more details, see: https://youtu.be/HkECCRPPggg?t=1080
Hey, I wasn't trying to judge, we all use what we have. Since you can't upgrade or speed up your CPU, there are other ways to help it perform better. While playing games, make sure no other programs are running. It's surprising how much improving your browser settings—like keeping it closed—can change things. Also, consider turning off your antivirus during gaming. If your browser stays open, you'll only be linked to services like Steam, EA, uPlay, etc., which aren't infected. This can significantly lower CPU usage and might stop the stuttering. After finishing your session, you can turn it back on before using your browser again. You could also disable Windows Update while gaming and switch it back on afterward. These small adjustments can really ease your gaming experience.
Hi, thanks for your message! I always close everything else when I play games. The only exceptions are Windows Update and Windows Antivirus, which I will also disable as you suggested.
In my previous post before uploading the benchmark image, did you notice anything unusual in the print? I’ve been feeling like something might be underperforming, especially since people with older systems can still play these games smoothly.
It might not be useful but it definitely won't hurt!
👍
Looking at the performance section in Task Manager, the CPU is at full capacity. I’d need a screenshot showing the processes with the highest CPU usage at the top to pinpoint the cause. This is where the problem must be coming from. Whatever is consuming your CPU at 100%, that’s what’s making this issue occur.