When you’re gaming or running graphics-intensive applications, you expect your GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) to be running at peak performance. However, there are times when you might notice that your GPU usage is unexpectedly low, leading to poor performance, stuttering, or lower-than-expected frame rates. Several factors could cause this, and understanding them can help you resolve the issue and get your GPU back to optimal performance.

1. Integrated Graphics Being Used Instead

Sometimes, your system may default to the integrated GPU instead of the dedicated graphics card. This often happens after upgrading your GPU or in systems that default to integrated graphics to save power.

  1. Enter BIOS setup during boot.
  2. Navigate to the graphics configuration settings.
  3. Disable the integrated graphics or set the primary display adapter to PCIe/PEG.
  4. Save and exit BIOS, ensuring your monitor is connected to the dedicated GPU.

2. Outdated or Incorrect GPU Drivers

GPU drivers are crucial for the optimal functioning of your graphics card. If your drivers are outdated or not properly installed, your GPU may not be working to its full potential. Manufacturers regularly release driver updates to optimize performance and fix bugs, so it’s essential to keep them up to date.

  • Update your drivers: Visit the NVIDIA or AMD website (or use the respective software like GeForce Experience or Radeon Software) to download and install the latest GPU drivers.
  • Perform a clean installation: If updating doesn’t fix the issue, perform a clean installation of the drivers to ensure no previous driver conflicts are causing the problem.

3. Power Management Settings

Many GPUs and CPUs have power-saving features that can limit their performance to conserve energy, particularly on laptops or desktops with eco-friendly settings. If your GPU is set to a power-saving mode, it may not run at full capacity even when needed.

Adjust Power Settings

  • Check Windows power settings: Set your system to “High Performance” mode. In Windows, go to Control Panel > Power Options and select the High Performance plan.
  • Configure GPU power settings: Use the GPU’s control panel (like NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings) to ensure that the power management mode is set to “Prefer Maximum Performance.”

4. CPU Bottleneck

A CPU bottleneck is one of the most common reasons for low GPU usage. In this scenario, the processor (CPU) is not able to process data as quickly as the GPU, leading to the GPU waiting for the CPU to complete its tasks. This can happen if your CPU is outdated or lacks the necessary power to keep up with the demands of modern games and applications.

  • Upgrade your CPU: If your CPU is outdated or too weak for your GPU, consider upgrading it to a more powerful model.
  • Adjust game settings: Reducing CPU-intensive settings like shadows, physics simulations, and object detail can help reduce the strain on the CPU, allowing the GPU to run at higher usage.
  • Close background tasks: Terminate any unnecessary background processes that could be using CPU resources, such as web browsers, system updates, or other programs.

5. Software Conflicts or Background Processes

Other programs or background processes can interfere with your game or application, diverting resources away from the GPU.

  • Use the Task Manager to close unnecessary applications running in the background.
  • Check for malware or other harmful software that might be consuming system resources.

6. Overheating Resulting in Thermal Throttling

Overheating can cause your GPU to throttle its performance to prevent damage. If your GPU’s temperature exceeds its safe limits, it will automatically lower its clock speeds, leading to reduced usage and performance. This can be due to dust buildup, poor airflow, or inadequate cooling solutions.

  • Clean your PC: Regularly clean your PC to remove dust from the fans, GPU heatsink, and case to improve airflow.
  • Improve airflow: Ensure that your PC case has proper ventilation and consider adding more fans or upgrading your cooling solution.
  • Check GPU temps: Use monitoring software like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to check your GPU temperature. If it’s running too hot, take steps to cool it down.
  • Thermal paste replacement: Consider improving the thermal paste application if it is several years old.

7. Game or Application Issues

Sometimes, the problem lies within the game or application itself. Poorly optimized games or software may not utilize your GPU properly.

Dealing with Game Issues

  • Check for game patches or updates that might improve performance.
  • Adjust game settings or lower graphic details to see if GPU usage improves.
  • Consult online forums or communities for specific fixes or settings.

8. Background Applications Using GPU

Certain background applications, especially those related to media playback or browser hardware acceleration, can consume a portion of your GPU’s resources, causing lower GPU usage for games or other tasks. This is particularly common with web browsers like Chrome, which can use GPU resources for rendering.

  • Close unnecessary programs: Close any applications that might be using the GPU, especially web browsers, video players, or streaming services.
  • Disable hardware acceleration: If closing the programs doesn’t help, disable hardware acceleration within them. For example, in Chrome, go to Settings > System and toggle off “Use hardware acceleration when available.”

9. Low System RAM or Improper Memory Settings

In some cases, insufficient system RAM can cause low GPU utilization, especially if the game or application you’re running requires more memory than is available. Additionally, if your system RAM settings are misconfigured, it can bottleneck your GPU.

  • Upgrade RAM: If you have less than 16GB of RAM, consider upgrading, as modern games and applications often require more memory to run efficiently.
  • Optimize RAM settings: Check your RAM speed and timings in the BIOS or UEFI settings to ensure they are optimized for performance.

10. GPU Running in PCIe x1 Slot

Your GPU needs to be in a PCIe x16 slot to perform optimally. Sometimes, especially after a build or repair, the GPU may be accidentally installed in a lower-bandwidth slot (like PCIe x1 or x8), leading to reduced performance.

  • Check GPU placement: Ensure that your GPU is installed in the PCIe x16 slot on your motherboard for maximum performance.
  • Check PCIe bandwidth in software: Use a tool like GPU-Z to check the PCIe bandwidth being used by your GPU. If it shows a lower bandwidth than expected, reseat the card in the correct slot.

11. V-Sync and Frame Rate Limiters

Vertical Sync (V-Sync) synchronizes your game’s frame rate with your monitor’s refresh rate to prevent screen tearing. While this can improve visual quality, it may also limit your GPU usage. Similarly, frame rate limiters built into games or software can cap your frame rate below what your GPU is capable of, resulting in lower GPU usage.

Disabling V-Sync or Frame Limiting Settings

  • Disable V-Sync: Turn off V-Sync in the game settings if you’re experiencing low GPU usage. If screen tearing occurs, consider enabling adaptive sync technologies like NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, which allow for better synchronization without limiting GPU usage.
  • Check frame rate limits: Ensure that frame rate limiters in-game or within third-party software (like MSI Afterburner) are disabled or set to an appropriate value.

12. Faulty Hardware

In rare cases, a faulty GPU, power supply, or motherboard can cause low GPU usage. If none of the other solutions work, it could be a hardware-related issue.

  • Test the GPU in another system: If possible, test your GPU in another computer to rule out hardware failure.
  • Check PSU wattage: Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) is delivering enough power to your GPU, especially if you have multiple high-end components.
  • Consult a professional: If you suspect hardware failure, contact a technician or the manufacturer for support.

How to Monitor and Optimize GPU Usage

Monitoring your GPU usage can help you identify when it’s not performing as expected. Here’s how you can keep track of your GPU’s performance and make necessary adjustments:

  1. Use Monitoring Tools: Software like MSI Afterburner, GPU-Z, or the Task Manager in Windows can help you monitor GPU usage in real-time.
  2. Check for Bottlenecks: Use performance monitoring tools to check if your CPU, memory, or storage is bottlenecking your GPU.
  3. Optimize System Settings: Ensure that your system settings are optimized for performance, such as by disabling unnecessary startup programs and ensuring that your GPU is prioritized in the BIOS.
  4. Keep Your System Updated: Regularly update your operating system, drivers, and software to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Low GPU usage can result from a variety of factors, ranging from CPU bottlenecks to cooling issues. By following the steps above, you can identify the root cause and take the necessary actions to resolve it. Ensure your system is balanced with compatible hardware, regularly update your drivers, and optimize your power and performance settings to keep your GPU running at its best.

Avatar for Marlo Strydom

Marlo, the founder of Computer Info Bits, has over 20 years of IT expertise. He's passionate about technology and aims to demystify it. Since 2019, he's been writing articles covering essential computer tips to complex hardware discussions, helping readers better understand and use their technology. Marlo stays up-to-date with the latest tech developments through extensive research and interaction.