How to Fix GTA 5 Stuttering Issues on PC
GTA 5 is a popular open-world game, but PC players may experience stuttering. This article offers solutions to improve performance and ensure a smoother experience.
1. Check Minimum System Requirements
Before troubleshooting, confirm that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for GTA 5:
OS: Windows 10 64-bit
Processor: Intel Core 2 Quad CPU Q6600 @ 2.40GHz (4 CPUs) / AMD Phenom 9850 Quad-Core Processor (4 CPUs) @ 2.5GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA 9800 GT 1GB / AMD HD 4870 1GB (DX 10, 10.1, 11)
Storage: 120 GB available space
Sound Card: 100% DirectX 10 compatible
2. Update Graphics Drivers
Graphics drivers play a critical role in game performance. Outdated drivers can cause performance issues or compatibility problems. Consider using Driver Sentry to automatically detect and update drivers quickly and efficiently.
Download and install the latest version of Driver Sentry. Launch the application and click "Scan".
Review the scan results, locate the graphics driver, and click "Upgrade".
After the update, restart your PC to ensure the new driver takes effect.
3. Run as Administrator
Locate the GTA 5 shortcut on your desktop and right-click it. Select "Properties".
Navigate to the Compatibility tab and check the box for "Run this program as an administrator".
Click "Apply" and "OK" to save the changes.
Launch the game to verify if the issue is resolved.
4. Disable Full-Screen Optimization
Right-click the GTA 5 shortcut on your desktop and select "Properties".
Go to the Compatibility tab and check the box for "Disable full-screen optimizations".
Click "Apply" and "OK".
Run the game to see if performance improves.
5. Limit In-Game FPS
Launch GTA 5 and go to the Settings menu.
Select "Advanced Graphics" and locate the "Extended Distance Scaling" option. Lower its value.
Find the "Refresh Rate" setting and adjust it to 60Hz or lower.
Save your changes and exit the menu.
6. Turn Off Vsync
Launch the game, go to the Graphics section in Settings, and scroll down.
Find the "Vsync" option and set it to Off.
Save the changes and exit the menu.
Restart the game to check if it runs more smoothly.
7. Optimize Network Settings
Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi whenever possible, as wired connections are typically more stable and have lower latency.
Press Win + R, type "ncpa.cpl", and press Enter.
In the network connections window, right-click your active network adapter and select "Properties".
Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click "Properties".
Ensure Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically are selected.
Alternatively, set DNS manually to Google DNS:
Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
Follow these steps to improve GTA 5's performance and reduce stuttering. If the issue continues, contact Rockstar support or upgrade your PC hardware.
See also:
Steps to Update BIOS on a Computer
How to Fix Windows Msvcr120.dll Missing
How to Fix a Wireless Mouse Not Working
Guide to Fixing the "Print Spooler Service Not Running" Error