Why am I getting low FPS on low settings?

Answered by Michael Wilson

There can be several reasons why you are experiencing low FPS even on low graphics settings. Let’s explore some possible causes and solutions:

1. Outdated or inadequate hardware: Your computer’s hardware may not meet the minimum requirements to run the game smoothly. Ensure that your CPU, RAM, and graphics card are capable of handling the game’s demands. If your hardware is outdated, consider upgrading to improve performance. For example, if you have an older graphics card, upgrading to a newer model can significantly boost FPS.

2. Insufficient RAM: If you have limited RAM, it can hinder your gaming performance. Running the game along with other applications simultaneously may cause a bottleneck. Check if you meet the recommended RAM requirements for the game and consider adding more if needed.

3. Driver issues: Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can cause performance issues. Make sure you have the latest drivers installed for your graphics card. Visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the appropriate drivers.

4. Overheating: When your computer components, particularly the CPU and graphics card, overheat, they can throttle performance to prevent damage. Ensure that your system is adequately cooled by cleaning out any dust from fans and vents, and consider using cooling pads or additional fans if necessary.

5. Background processes: Running resource-intensive background processes or applications alongside the game can reduce FPS. Close unnecessary programs and disable any non-essential startup applications to free up system resources for gaming.

6. Storage limitations: If your game is installed on a slow or nearly full hard drive, it can impact performance. Consider upgrading to a faster SSD or ensuring that you have enough free space on your current drive to optimize performance.

7. Game settings: While you mentioned using low graphics settings, it’s worth double-checking that you have optimized the in-game settings appropriately. Some settings, such as anti-aliasing or advanced graphical effects, can significantly impact performance. Experiment with different combinations of settings to find the right balance between visuals and FPS.

8. Software conflicts: Conflicts between the game and other software, such as antivirus or firewall programs, can cause performance issues. Temporarily disable or whitelist the game in your security software to see if it improves FPS.

9. Background downloads or updates: If your system is downloading updates or running background tasks while gaming, it can impact performance. Ensure that no significant downloads or updates are running during your gaming sessions.

10. Hardware limitations: In some cases, even with the best optimization efforts, your hardware may simply not be capable of running the game at satisfactory FPS. If you have already tried all the above solutions and are still experiencing low FPS, it may be time to consider upgrading your hardware.

Remember that every system is unique, and the solution that works for one person may not work for another. Experimentation, troubleshooting, and finding the right balance between performance and visual quality are key in optimizing your FPS.