Hey everyone! I'm new to this whole PC thing. I bought my PC during the pandemic and have recently started gaming more. However, I've been experiencing some glitches and occasional freezes while playing. I'm looking for advice on how to upgrade my system to enhance my gaming experience. Here's what I'm working with:
- Processor: Intel i5-9400F 2.9 GHz
- RAM: 16 GB
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super.
Any suggestions?
3 Answers
First, let’s make sure it’s not a software glitch. A fresh install of Windows might clear up some issues, especially if you’ve upgraded to Windows 11. Consider using DDU to uninstall your GPU drivers in safe mode and then reinstalling the latest ones. Don’t forget to check your BIOS settings to ensure XMP is enabled.
Now, if it turns out the software isn't the problem, the freezing could be linked to your GPU or CPU struggling with newer games. The GTX 1660 Super usually performs well, but it can get overloaded at higher settings. Also, check if you're running single-channel memory, as that could hurt performance too. Once you rule out software, let me know your budget, and I can offer more tailored advice!
How can I check if my memory is single channel?
I’d say a GPU upgrade is your best bet! The next step should be looking at upgrading the CPU as well. What's your budget looking like for these upgrades?
Right now, I’m thinking about $1,000 for the upgrades.
The stuttering and freezing could very well be related to your RAM or GPU performance. If you're low on RAM, adding more could definitely help. For a budget-friendly approach, focus on upgrading the RAM and the GPU first. Keep an eye on your RAM usage during gaming; if it's maxed out, that's a sign you need an upgrade. If your GPU isn’t delivering smooth performance, it might be time for a change there too!
Thanks for the tips! I’m actually looking to upgrade both my wife’s and my system, so we’re aiming for around $2,000 total—$1,000 each. I've already upgraded to Windows 11 and updated some drivers, but only the NVIDIA ones for now.