Question about whether the issue is related to the CPU and if so, what specific cause it is.
Question about whether the issue is related to the CPU and if so, what specific cause it is.
Hello.
I own an older and likely quite unreliable "gaming" laptop (details below) that comes with a range of problems. Some of these might be permanent, and I plan to replace the machine eventually. Still, before I do, I’d like to pinpoint the exact reason for one specific issue—stuttering during gameplay.
This isn’t about a general slowdown; it’s about consistent frame drops that happen at certain moments. It’s been suggested before that the problem lies with the CPU, so I’m sharing this here.
You’ll notice the issue in the video below (the quality is not great—just due to the recording software). My usual performance isn’t exceptional, but it’s acceptable. The stutter becomes more obvious as I move quickly. It often happens right when I approach the caravan, and then again shortly after; that particular area seems to trigger it. The game freezes for a single frame before processing resumes, which is what’s happening.
This occurs in almost every game. While some titles might be poorly coded, there’s clearly another factor at work on my system too.
What leads to such frame-based freezing?
Your help would be greatly appreciated!
Specs
OS: Windows 10 64bit
CPU: Intel® Core™ i7-6700HQ @ 2.60GHz
GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060
RAM: 16gb (DDR4)
HDD: 1TB (87.8gb free)
SSD: 250GB (28.5gb free)
The game runs via Steam, which loads files onto my HDD. Not the best setup, but it’s what I have.
I notice numerous complaints regarding gaming laptops' performance issues.
Typically, gaming occurs while connected to a power source.
A frequent issue is thermal throttling.
Laptop coolers are often compact and lightweight by necessity.
They also tend to be relatively underpowered.
Monitoring tools like HWMonitor or HWinfo will display current, minimum, and maximum CPU temperatures. Adjust settings to view each core individually.
For Intel processors, a maximum temperature of 100°C in red indicates throttling is occurring.
With Ryzen processors, the threshold is generally around 85°C-90°C.
The CPU reduces its multiplier and power consumption to safeguard itself until conditions improve.
At a lower multiplier, your CPU might operate at full capacity.
What steps can be taken?
Ensure your cooler's airflow is unobstructed and the fan is functioning properly.
Use Windows balanced power profile instead of performance mode.
Set a minimum CPU performance threshold around 20%.
Although unusual, consider adjusting the advanced settings in Windows Balanced Power Profile to a maximum of 90% rather than the default 100%.
You might not immediately notice the impact on performance.