GPU bottleneck quick check
Pick a cpu + gpu, choose resolution, and see if your build is likely balanced, cpu-bound, or gpu-bound. Estimates are conservative, and will help you decide which part you should upgrade next.
What is our GPU bottleneck quick check
The GPU Bottleneck Quick Check is a simple tool that helps you figure out whether your gaming rig is balanced, CPU-bound, or GPU-bound. Just pick your CPU, your GPU, and your target resolution, and the tool instantly estimates how your system will perform.
Why use the GPU bottleneck quick check?
Even powerful PCs can feel sluggish if the wrong parts are paired together. You might have a top-tier GPU held back by an older CPU, or a blazing-fast CPU wasted on a weak graphics card. That’s the essence of the bottleneck problem.
The GPU Bottleneck Quick Check takes the guesswork out of it:
- Instant insight – No spreadsheets or benchmark hunting — just pick your parts and see.
- Upgrade guidance – Get clear direction on whether to prioritize a CPU or GPU upgrade.
- Resolution-aware – Bottlenecks change depending on if you play at 1080p, 1440p, or 4K.
- Realistic estimates – We factor in modern settings like DLSS/FSR/XeSS boosts (+20% FPS in supported games) and tuned CPUs (+5% headroom).
- Confidence to build smarter – Avoid mismatched parts and wasted money.
Whether you’re planning a new build or squeezing more life out of an old rig, this tool helps you make better decisions.
How to use it
- Select Your CPU and GPU – Choose from the list (example: i9-10900K + RTX 4070).
- Pick a Resolution – Options include 1080p, 1440p, and 4K.
- Choose Quality Preset – Casual, eSports/Medium, or AAA/High.
- Apply Options – Toggle DLSS/FSR/XeSS (+20% FPS boost on supported titles) or CPU tuning (+5% CPU headroom).
- Run the Check – See whether your system is balanced, CPU-bound, or GPU-bound.
That’s it — no downloads, no installs. Just quick insight into your build.
Example check
- CPU: i9-10900K (score 220)
- GPU: RTX 4070 (score 310)
- Target Resolution: 1080p
- Quality Preset: AAA / High
Result: At 1080p, this setup is slightly CPU-bound. The GPU is powerful enough to handle much higher resolutions, so upgrading the CPU or moving to 1440p gaming would balance performance.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the GPU Bottleneck Quick Check?
The estimates are conservative, meaning they err on the side of caution. Actual results will vary by game, settings, and system tuning.
What does “CPU-bound” mean?
It means your CPU is limiting performance. Your GPU could deliver higher frame rates, but it’s being held back by the processor.
What does “GPU-bound” mean?
It means your GPU is the main limiter. Your CPU has headroom left, but the graphics card can’t push higher FPS at your chosen resolution.
What if the result says “balanced”?
That’s the sweet spot. Both parts are being used effectively, so you’ll get smooth performance without major bottlenecks.
Should I always upgrade the bottleneck part?
Not always. It depends on your goals. If you’re happy with your current performance, you don’t need to upgrade immediately. But if you want more FPS or better quality settings, upgrade whichever part the tool highlights as your limiter.