How to Fix Low FPS in Games (Complete Guide to Boost FPS in 2026)

Low FPS ruining your gaming experience?

Nothing is worse than stuttering, lag, and sudden frame drops right in the middle of a battle.

But don't worry, you don't always need to buy a brand-new PC.

If you're wondering how to fix low FPS in games, we've got you covered with quick software fixes and the best hardware upgrades to get your game running smoothly again.

Why Is Your FPS So Low?

Before solving the problem, you need to understand why it happens. The main causes include:

• Weak or outdated GPU: The graphics card handles most of the gaming workload. Learn more in our GPU upgrade guide.
• Not enough RAM: If your PC runs out of memory, games will stutter terribly. A RAM upgrade easily fixes this.
• CPU bottleneck: An old processor can hold back a fast graphics card. Check out our CPU upgrade resources.
• Background apps consuming resources: Programs running behind the scenes can steal processing power.
• Overheating or thermal throttling: If your PC gets too hot, it slows itself down to avoid damage.

Quick Ways to Fix Low FPS (No Upgrade Needed)

Try these free and simple fixes right now to boost performance on Windows 10 and Windows 11:

• ✓ Lower in-game graphics settings
• ✓ Update your GPU drivers (outdated drivers are one of the most common causes of FPS drops)
• ✓ Close unnecessary background apps
• ✓ Enable Windows Game Mode
• ✓ Set your power plan to High Performance
• ✓ Reduce the game's resolution

Best Upgrades to Increase FPS

Upgrade Your GPU (Biggest FPS Boost)

The graphics card is the single most important component for gaming performance. Modern games rely heavily on the GPU to render highly detailed textures and environments.

Compared to a CPU upgrade, a GPU upgrade usually delivers a much bigger FPS increase in most games.

Upgrading your graphics card will almost always give you the highest increase in frame rates. Read more in our GPU upgrade guide.

Upgrade Your RAM (Reduce Stuttering)

RAM acts as a temporary workspace for your games. If you only have 8GB, you will likely experience severe stuttering. Moving from 8GB to 16GB allows for incredibly smooth gameplay.

Find out what you need by reading the RAM upgrade details, or learn specifically how much RAM you need.

Upgrade Your CPU (Fix Bottlenecks)

Sometimes, your CPU limits the FPS in games, preventing your graphics card from reaching its full potential. This is known as a bottleneck.

Learn how to fix this via a CPU upgrade, or check if you should upgrade RAM or CPU first.

What Should You Upgrade First for Gaming?

If you want more FPS, follow this upgrade priority order:

1. GPU: The ultimate frame rate booster.
2. RAM: Eliminates stuttering and smooths out gameplay.
3. CPU: Prevents bottlenecks so your GPU can work at 100%.

For a deeper dive, check out our guide on PC upgrade for gaming and the overall PC upgrade priority.

FPS Fix Based on Game Type

eSports Games (CS2, Valorant, Fortnite)

Fast-paced competitive multiplayer games are often CPU-intensive. A fast processor and plenty of RAM are critically important for hitting those 240+ frame rates.

AAA Games (Cyberpunk, Elden Ring)

Visually stunning narrative games push graphics to the limit. The GPU is the main priority here to get a solid 60 FPS on high settings.

Step-by-Step Plan to Boost FPS

• Step 1: Try all the quick software fixes first.
• Step 2: Check your GPU usage in Task Manager while gaming.
• Step 3: Upgrade your GPU first for the biggest performance leap.
• Step 4: Add more RAM to stop random stutters.
• Step 5: Upgrade your CPU if you are still facing big limitations.

Want to make sure you do it right? Check out the full PC upgrade guide and keep our PC upgrade checklist handy.

Frequently Asked Questions