Lag in PC games is usually the result of a variety of factors. Anything from an outdated processing unit to the most common lack of sufficient RAM. If your processor is outdated, running most games will be a problem as FPS will drop and lag spikes will become typical features of an older PC.
It takes a lot to improve the overall gaming performance of your PC, you will have to adjust a lot of settings. Keep in mind, however, that you’ll need the uninterruptible power supply units to ensure that a power surge doesn’t wreck system operations and undo all your progress.
Where to start: the basics
- This guide is primarily aimed at offline PC gaming, and as such, the first thing you need to do is restart your computer. This feature resets your RAM, reduces performance issues and improves speed.
- Sometimes game lag is caused by system overload. This is due to the fact that you may be running several other programs simultaneously. Most of the games take up a lot of RAM space, so it becomes a bit difficult to run other programs.
- Press Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Esc
This will bring up popups of the various programs running in the background. Then all you have to do is click Close/End Task.
If your PC has no RAM or processing issues, this simple procedure should improve game speed substantially. However, in the event that it is not, you will need to consider replacing some hardware.
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improve RAM
Most modern PCs come equipped with pretty decent processors. Standard SPECS run from 2.4 GZ to a mid-range of about 3.6 GZ. These processors can run many games with the help of a graphics card. However, RAM memory is what counts the most.
To avoid performance issues or game speed issues, the recommended minimum RAM is 4 GB. It is safe to play between 8 and 16 GB just to be safe. 16 GB might be a bit much, but if you’re looking for a safe bet, then 8 GB will do just fine.
Check quality settings
Some games also tend to have a lot of redundant quality settings that do nothing but slow down the game. Elements such as water quality, shadow, lighting quality, particles, etc. These are factors that in most cases do not add value to the gaming experience. Although you may not want to turn them off completely, you should turn them down to “LOW”.
Graphics intricacies also include things like screen resolution, which is an in-game feature that you can adjust. Again, it depends on the type of game you’re playing. Different games have different graphic intensities and screen resolutions range from 1080 X 720 to 1920 X 1080 or higher.
If you like intensive gaming, then the recommended resolution can be toned down to perhaps 1366 X 768. 1080 X 720 is a bit too basic, so you may want to consider replacing your PC if you want to play more tactically demanding games.
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game updates
There are cases where game developers offer performance improvements in the name of updates. This generally improves response speed and modifies the overall gaming experience. These updates are a fairly common feature for high intensity gaming and are fitted to ensure that the game stays at consistent and acceptable FPS rates.
Recommendation
Most of the people try to reduce the lag by updating the PC OS (operating system). With an outdated CU, this will probably do more harm than good. This is because the RAM and processor are designed to only take a certain amount of pressure. Upgrading your processor can make your computer much, much slower!
Key considerations:
- Check the game specifications to make sure your PC meets the minimum requirements.
- Having battery saver “ON” on your computer actually reduces performance, especially speeds.
- Do not run multiple programs simultaneously.
- If you are running the minimum requirements then lower your game settings, if this doesn’t work then it may be time to consider replacing your PC.
If you’re looking for specs that will ensure the best gaming experience, any base operating speed from 2.8GHZ to 3.6GHZ, integrated UHD graphics, and 16GB of RAM will ensure you never have to worry about constant lag.
