Resolved: Confusion regarding frame rate drops on laptop.
Resolved: Confusion regarding frame rate drops on laptop.
I own an MSI GE72 Apache Pro, which has functioned reliably for over two years. However, I've recently experienced significant issues, beginning with a malfunctioning CPU fan, which I subsequently replaced. Following this repair, I’ve encountered intermittent frame rate drops in games, particularly in CSGO, where performance fluctuates from 200-250 FPS (on medium settings) to 20-40 FPS for brief periods. Monitoring system temperatures and resource utilization reveals no apparent bottlenecks; the GPU consistently operates between 75% and 92%, while the CPU remains largely at 80% with core usage fluctuating between 65%-80%. Temperatures typically reach approximately 80°C after extended gaming sessions.
Disabling “Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery” within Device Manager temporarily reduced power fluctuations observed via MSI Afterburner OSD. Although this lessened the frequency of the issue, it did not resolve the problem entirely, as evidenced by a single instance of frame drops during a CSGO game. Subsequent gameplay sessions revealed the issue recurring more frequently.
I have been troubleshooting these problems for months without success. Any assistance would be appreciated.
Relevant hardware specifications: Intel i7-7700HQ (default boost clock), GTX 1050 Ti (default boost clock), 16GB RAM, 250GB M.2 SSD, and 1TB SSD. I also replaced the thermal paste on both the CPU and GPU heat sinks during fan replacement. Furthermore, a full anti-malware scan was performed.
Kombuster was not dropping frame, it was low but not performing like the game. When I viewed a disassembly video, the individual stated the pads were subpar, so I purchased new ones; they are fresh. I also replaced the thermal paste as I had applied excessive amounts previously, and I reduced the quantity to assess if this might mitigate throttling due to the system reading an acceptable temperature and then reducing performance. I did not consider this possibility initially. I will test this and provide feedback; I appreciate your assistance!
I apologize for the delayed response; I was working throughout the day. All drivers and Windows are updated, and I verified CS:GO files and reinstalled the game on an SSD from a hard drive. I checked for drive errors, leading me to replace the original hard drive with an SSD due to its poor performance. When FPS drops, it slows to the low 20s. I monitored Task Manager and other programs to identify resource spikes but found nothing. I only use the default Steam overlay. Thermals are now more stable after replacing the thermal paste with a smaller amount; readings increase steadily instead of in jumps. I haven’t had sufficient time to assess if this resolved the issue. I am considering wiping drivers and performing a fresh Windows installation, and I have flashed the BIOS to the latest version.
The thermal paste I used was Noctua, which was highly rated and suitable for CPU and GPU applications. I also utilized their wipes to remove the old paste.
I now observe a typographical error; the CPU reaches approximately 80°C under maximum load (defined as sustained operation in a hot room), though this is its peak temperature. The GPU consistently remains around 65°C, achieving stability at 58°C during a 10-minute FUR mark stress test.
Notably, when the temperature drop occurs, my GPU usage decreases to 20% from its previous level.