How To Fix CPU Bottleneck (Detailed Guide)

Bottleneck, as the name itself suggests, is an issue that occurs when there is a limitation on the amount of data is being sent for processing or how much data can be allowed to process simultaneously.


In layman’s terms, bottleneck basically just means that the capacity to revert back processed data is not enough as compared to the amount of data that is being sent for processing.

The two components that are involved in the process of bottlenecking are the CPU (processor) and the GPU (graphics card). It works like this: if both these components have major differences in their processing speed, a bottleneck will happen.




How to fix CPU bottleneck

The CPU bottleneck occurs when the processor isn’t fast enough to process and transfer data. The CPU is overall responsible for real-time processing functions and other complex CPU-bound processes. A bottleneck happens if the speed of data transfer is either limited or capped. When you see a sudden drop in FPS, that is an indication of a CPU bottleneck.

CAUSES OF CPU AND GPU BOTTLENECK

We can’t fix something if we don’t even know what’s causing it. Let’s see what really causes a CPU and a GPU to bottleneck. It may seem like that you either have a slow processor or a poor graphics card that is causing your bottleneck issues and by simply replacing those, you can get rid of it.


However, that is not the case. The different games that you load and play on your PC contribute to bottleneck. As all games are not designed to be similar, they are all CPU-dependent and GPU-dependent.

  • CPU-dependent games are the ones that have a high FPS rate with low-resolution graphics. These games are usually Minecraft, Assassin’s Creed, Civilization V.
  • The games that show a higher FPS when paired with high-end graphics cards are known as GPU-dependent games.
  • For example, that is notoriously dependent on GPU are Witcher 3, Dying Light, Metro: Last Light and Borderlands 2.

Thus, the causes of bottleneck in CPU as well as GPU are not solely limited to their components themselves but are other factors that are causing the same.

Ways to fix CPU and GPU Bottleneck

Let’s face it, we all just want a smooth experience. There is no way of knowing which of the two- CPU or GPU are the culprit of what’s causing the bottleneck. You can only achieve this by downloading monitoring software like MSI Afterburner.

fixing your bottleneck issues

This is a pretty easy process. The first thing you need to do is to address the issue, which is also an uncomplicated procedure and is already mentioned above for CPU and GPU. The key is to balance out the processing load of both components to ensure a smooth operation and experience. 

The various methods to fix your bottleneck issues in CPU, as well as GPU, are as follows:

  • Method 1: Increase the resolution
  • Method 2: Stop unnecessary background process
  • Method 3: Overclocking the RAM
  • Method 4: Overclocking the CPU
  • Method 5: Lower CPU-intensive settings
Method 1: Increase the resolution

When you have a CPU bottleneck, increasing the processing usage of your GPU sort of balances the load. Once you adjust the graphics to higher resolutions like 4K, the GPU will need more time to render the processed data.


Hence, the processing speed balances itself. The logic behind this is to ensure your CPU and GPU process data at a similar speed to lessen the chances of experiencing bottlenecks.

method 2: stop unnecessary background process

This is a great way to lower your CPU bottleneck issues. Simply close your background processes. You will see a surprising increase in FPS count once you do so.

method 3: overclocking the ram

RAM provides access and assists in running all your data, and it is closely tied to how fast the CPU can do the same. By overclocking the RAM, FPS will have a huge boost in performance.

method 4: overclocking the cpu

Overclocking or a locked CPU offers more room for the processor to breathe. 

method 5: lower cpu - intensive settings

When you lower in-game or program CPU-bound settings, it leads to a huge boost and mass reduction in CPU bottleneck issues. A few of these settings include lowering draw distance, vegetation, population density, and others.

Conclusion

So, we know that CPU bottleneck and GPU bottleneck are both different issues, albeit in the same platform. A wrong pair of processors and graphics cards can cost you a bottleneck.

It’s important to pair the right components before actually getting the parts. Choose the components carefully that are in line with the programs you run to avoid the need to upgrade soon. When you pair the right components, the chances of experiencing bottlenecks will be slim.

Related Products

How to Install Water Cooling CPU – Easy DIY Methods

Types of CPU Cases Based On Cooling System, Motherboards & Tower

What is the Normal CPU Temp while Gaming?

Closed Loop vs Open Loop Water Cooling – Know the Difference
Peter
 

Hey friends I am Peter, greeting my post. My goal is to provide the most up-to-date and complete info on tech products and other accessories. So, those who are spending more time in researching the best product can reduce their searching time and can start to enjoy using the latest trending tools and accessories. Just give a read to my blog and save your time.