Bottleneck FAQ
The most-asked CPU/GPU pairing questions, answered without fluff.
Are bottleneck calculators accurate?+
They're directional, not exact. FPSBuddy estimates FPS and bottleneck % from benchmark-derived hardware scores plus per-game load profiles. Expect ±10–15% variance vs your actual playthrough — thermals, memory, drivers, and settings all shift the real number.
How do I know if my CPU is bottlenecking my GPU?+
At low resolutions (1080p) with GPU utilization sitting well under 95% while your CPU is pinned near 100%, you're CPU-bound. FPSBuddy models this: pick your CPU + GPU + game, and if the diagnosis returns 'CPU-bound' with a bottleneck > 8%, the CPU is your limiter.
How do I fix a CPU bottleneck?+
Three options ranked by cost: raise render resolution (pushes work to the GPU), lower CPU-heavy settings (physics, shadows, view distance, NPC density), or upgrade to a faster gaming CPU. FPSBuddy's upgrade suggestion finds the cheapest CPU that rebalances your specific GPU.
Can a GPU bottleneck a CPU?+
Yes — at 4K or with max settings, a weak GPU caps frame delivery while your CPU sits idle. That's a GPU bottleneck. Lower resolution or GPU-heavy settings help; a stronger GPU is the permanent fix.
What's a good bottleneck percentage?+
Under ~8% is effectively balanced — no upgrade would meaningfully change FPS. 8–15% is noticeable in demanding scenes. 15%+ means the weaker component is actively costing you frames.
Does RAM bottleneck my CPU or GPU?+
Slow or insufficient RAM does hurt frame pacing (especially 1% lows) but isn't modelled directly in FPSBuddy — the calculator assumes appropriately-fast DDR4-3600 or DDR5-6000 paired with the CPU. Add 32 GB / fast kits for modern AAA titles.
Is the bottleneck calculator free?+
Yes. No account, no signup, no paywall. Share your build with the copy-link button.