Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about FPS stuttering, game performance, and PC troubleshooting.
General Performance
Why do I have stuttering even with a powerful PC?
High-end hardware doesn't guarantee smooth gameplay. Stuttering is often caused by software issues, driver problems, or configuration mismatches rather than raw power. Even a RTX 4090 can stutter if drivers are corrupted or Windows settings aren't optimized.
Is stuttering the same as low FPS?
No. Low FPS means consistently slow frame rates (e.g., 20-30 FPS). Stuttering means inconsistent frame delivery - you might have 100 FPS on average but experience micro-freezes that make the game feel choppy.
Why does my game stutter only after playing for a while?
This is usually thermal throttling. As your CPU/GPU heat up during gameplay, they reduce performance to prevent damage. Check your temperatures with HWiNFO or MSI Afterburner.
Learn more →Can RAM cause stuttering?
Yes, especially if you have insufficient RAM (less than 16GB for modern games), RAM running at slow speeds (missing XMP profile), or a failing RAM stick.
Graphics & Drivers
Should I always use the latest GPU drivers?
Not always. Sometimes new drivers have bugs. If you're experiencing issues after updating, try rolling back to a previous version. For stability, use 'Game Ready' (NVIDIA) or 'Recommended' (AMD) drivers.
Learn more →What is DDU and when should I use it?
DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) completely removes all GPU driver traces before a fresh installation. Use it when experiencing driver-related stuttering, crashes, or when switching GPU brands.
Learn more →Does fullscreen vs borderless window affect performance?
Yes. Exclusive fullscreen typically has lower input lag and better frame pacing. Borderless window is more convenient but may introduce slight stuttering due to Windows compositor.
V-Sync & Frame Rate
Should I enable or disable V-Sync?
It depends. If you have a G-Sync/FreeSync monitor, disable in-game V-Sync and use adaptive sync instead. Without adaptive sync, V-Sync can help with screen tearing but may add input lag.
Learn more →What is frame pacing and why does it matter?
Frame pacing is about consistent frame delivery. You can have 60 FPS on average but if frames arrive at irregular intervals (10ms, 25ms, 12ms...), the game will feel stuttery.
Learn more →Should I cap my FPS?
Often yes. Capping your FPS slightly below your refresh rate (e.g., 141 FPS for 144Hz) keeps you in the G-Sync/FreeSync range and provides smoother gameplay than uncapped FPS.
What is the difference between G-Sync and FreeSync?
Both are adaptive sync technologies that match your monitor's refresh rate to your GPU's output. G-Sync is NVIDIA's version, FreeSync is AMD's. Modern NVIDIA GPUs can also use 'G-Sync Compatible' FreeSync monitors.
Storage & Loading
Can my HDD cause stuttering?
Yes, especially in open-world games. HDDs are much slower than SSDs and can cause stuttering during texture streaming and level loading. Many modern games now require SSDs.
Learn more →How do I check if my SSD is failing?
Use CrystalDiskInfo (free) to check your drive health. Look for "Caution" or "Bad" status. Also compare read/write speeds in CrystalDiskMark against your drive's rated specs.
Learn more →Should I install games on NVMe or SATA SSD?
For most games, SATA SSD is sufficient. NVMe provides faster load times but the difference during gameplay is minimal. Prioritize NVMe for games with heavy texture streaming.
Thermals & Cooling
What are safe CPU/GPU temperatures?
Generally: CPU under 85°C, GPU under 85°C during gaming. Some modern CPUs (Intel 12th+ gen, AMD 7000 series) are designed to run hotter (up to 100°C). Check your specific model's specs.
Learn more →How often should I replace thermal paste?
Every 2-3 years for most users. If you notice temperatures gradually increasing over time, it might be due to dried thermal paste. Quality paste (Arctic MX-4, Thermal Grizzly) lasts longer.
Can undervolting fix thermal throttling?
Yes. Undervolting reduces power consumption and heat while maintaining performance. However, it requires research for your specific CPU/GPU and careful stability testing.
Learn more →CPU Performance
How do I know if I have a CPU bottleneck?
Check Task Manager while gaming. If CPU usage is at 90-100% while GPU is at 40-60%, you likely have a CPU bottleneck. Also check if individual CPU cores are hitting 100%.
Learn more →Does closing background apps help FPS?
Yes, especially for CPU-limited scenarios. Browsers, Discord, cloud sync services, and antivirus can consume significant CPU resources. Close unnecessary apps before gaming.
Learn more →What is XMP and should I enable it?
XMP (Intel) / DOCP (AMD) enables your RAM to run at its rated speed instead of default JEDEC speeds. Enabling it is safe and often provides noticeable performance improvements.
Still have questions?
Try our interactive diagnostic tool or contact us directly.