Escape from Tarkov is demanding, and many players wonder whether it relies more on the CPU or GPU.
Tarkov is mostly CPU-intensive, relying heavily on the CPU for AI, physics, and background processes. However, a strong GPU is still needed for smooth graphics and FPS. A powerful CPU ensures better performance in Escape from Tarkov.
However, a balanced setup with a strong CPU and GPU ensures the best experience. Let’s break it down further to get the best performance possible!
Understanding the Intensive Demands of Escape from Tarkov
Escape from Tarkov is a realistic and intense shooter game that pushes your PC to its limits. It has detailed graphics, smart AI enemies, and complex physics, all of which need strong hardware to run smoothly.
Your computer’s CPU (processor) controls the game’s logic, while the GPU (graphics card) makes everything look great.
If your system isn’t powerful enough, you might experience lag, stuttering, or slow load times. To get the best experience, you need a good balance between CPU and GPU power. Let’s explain how Tarkov uses both and what you can do to optimize performance.
1. CPU Intensity in Escape from Tarkov
Tarkov relies heavily on the CPU because it has many complex calculations happening at once. The CPU handles enemy AI, bullet physics, player movements, and background processes.
When you’re in a busy area with multiple enemies and players, your CPU works hard to process everything in real-time. If your CPU is slow, you may experience frame drops, lag, or delays when shooting or moving.
A multi-core processor with a high clock speed is essential for smooth performance. While the GPU is important for visuals, the CPU plays a more significant role in how the game runs.
A. Minimum and Recommended CPU Requirements
Tarkov can run on an older CPU, but it won’t be smooth. The minimum required CPU is an Intel Core i5-2500 or an AMD FX-4350, but these may struggle in intense fights.
If you want smooth gameplay, the developers recommend an Intel Core i7-6700K or an AMD Ryzen 7. The best experience comes from modern CPUs with 6+ cores and high clock speeds.
A fast CPU reduces lag, helps load maps faster, and keeps AI interactions smooth. If you experience stuttering in Tarkov, upgrading your CPU can make a big difference, especially in CPU-heavy areas like cities or crowded fights.
2. GPU Intensity in Escape from Tarkov
While the CPU controls the game’s logic, the GPU renders the graphics. Tarkov has detailed environments, shadows, reflections, and particle effects, all needing a strong GPU.
If your GPU weakens, you might experience low frame rates, blurry textures, or screen tearing. The more realistic graphics settings you use, the more work your GPU has to do.
Playing Tarkov on higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K increases GPU usage. If you want high FPS and smooth visuals, a powerful graphics card is just as important as having a strong CPU.
A. Minimum and Recommended GPU Requirements
The minimum required GPU for Tarkov is an NVIDIA GTX 660 or an AMD Radeon R7 240, but these will only run the game on low settings.
A GTX 1060 or an RX 580 is recommended for a good balance of graphics and performance. If you want ultra settings and high FPS, consider using an NVIDIA RTX 2060, RTX 3060, or AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT.
VRAM (Video Memory) is also important—at least 4GB is needed, but 6GB or more is better. A strong GPU ensures Tarkov looks fantastic and runs smoothly, even during intense fights and explosions.
3. Optimizing CPU and GPU Performance in Escape from Tarkov
To make Tarkov run better, optimize your system by adjusting game settings and managing background apps. First, update your drivers for both CPU and GPU to get the latest improvements.
Next, close unnecessary programs running in the background to free up system resources. Keep your PC cool, as overheating can slow down performance.
In the game settings, lower CPU-heavy options like object detail and AI draw distance if you have a weaker processor.
If your GPU struggles, reduce texture quality and shadows. Balancing settings between CPU and GPU will help you achieve the best performance possible.
Additional Factors Affecting Performance in Escape from Tarkov
1. RAM
Tarkov needs enough RAM (memory) to load maps and run smoothly. The game requires at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB or more is recommended.
If you have low RAM, you may experience stuttering or slow performance. Closing background apps and upgrading your RAM can help make Tarkov run better.
2. Storage
Tarkov runs much faster on an SSD (Solid State Drive) than an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). An SSD reduces load times, prevents stuttering, and improves map streaming.
The game requires at least 8GB of storage, but having extra space helps. If you’re still using an HDD, upgrading to an SSD is a significant improvement.
3. Internet Connection
Since Tarkov is an online game, a fast and stable internet connection is essential. Slow internet can cause lag, desync, and delayed actions in fights.
For stability, a wired Ethernet connection is better than Wi-Fi. If you have high ping or frequent disconnects, upgrading your internet speed or router may help.
4. Game Settings and Resolution
Lowering specific graphics settings can help improve FPS without making the game look bad. Reducing shadows, draw distance, and anti-aliasing can boost performance.
Playing at 1080p instead of 1440p or 4K also helps if your GPU struggles. Adjusting these settings can make Tarkov run smoother, even on older hardware.
Best CPU for Tarkov
For smooth Tarkov gameplay, a fast, multi-core CPU like the Intel i7-12700K or AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is ideal. These CPUs handle AI, physics, and background tasks efficiently. A strong CPU reduces lag and improves frame rates, especially in intense fights.
Is Tarkov CPU Bound?
Yes, Tarkov is mostly CPU-bound because it relies heavily on the processor for AI, physics, and background calculations.
Even with a good GPU, a weak CPU can cause low FPS and stuttering. A powerful CPU helps achieve smoother gameplay and better performance.
Tarkov Low GPU Usage
If Tarkov isn’t entirely using your GPU, it might be CPU bottlenecked or limited by in-game settings. Adjust graphics settings, update drivers, and ensure the game uses your dedicated GPU. A balanced system with a strong CPU and GPU prevents this issue.
Are FPS Games CPU or GPU Intensive?
Most FPS games rely on the GPU for graphics and the CPU for processing AI, physics, and game logic. Tarkov is more CPU-intensive than many other FPS games, meaning a strong processor, along with a good GPU, is essential for smooth performance.
Tarkov Low CPU and GPU Usage
If Tarkov isn’t entirely using your CPU or GPU, check for background apps, outdated drivers, or power-saving settings.
Also, make sure the game is using the proper GPU. Adjusting in-game settings can help balance CPU and GPU usage for better performance.
Tarkov Not Using CPU
If Tarkov isn’t entirely using your CPU, it could be due to game settings, background processes, or outdated drivers.
Restarting your PC, closing unnecessary apps, and updating drivers can help. Also, make sure Tarkov is set to high-performance mode.
CPU Intensive Games
Games like Escape from Tarkov, Cyberpunk 2077, and Microsoft Flight Simulator are CPU-intensive because they rely heavily on AI, physics, and open-world calculations. A strong multi-core CPU improves FPS and prevents stuttering, making these games much smoother.
Why is Tarkov more CPU heavy than GPU?
Tarkov relies more on the CPU for AI, physics, and background tasks. It processes complex interactions, enemy AI, and loot systems. While the GPU handles graphics, a strong CPU is critical for smooth gameplay, especially in intense combat.
What do FPS games use more of, CPU or GPU?
Most FPS games depend on the GPU for rendering graphics but also need a strong CPU for AI, physics, and multiplayer processing. Tarkov, for example, is more CPU-heavy, while games like Call of Duty rely more on the GPU.
CPU usage low, GPU usage high?
If your CPU usage is low and GPU usage is high, it means your CPU isn’t working hard enough, possibly bottlenecking performance.
Check for background apps, enable high-performance mode, and upgrade your CPU if needed for better balance.
Upgrading GPU vs CPU for better Tarkov performance
For Tarkov, upgrading the CPU will usually give the biggest boost, especially for FPS stability and smoothness.
However, upgrading the GPU will improve visuals and performance at higher settings if your CPU is strong but FPS is still low.
Tarkov using only 50% of CPU and GPU
If Tarkov isn’t entirely using your CPU or GPU, it could be due to bottlenecks, power settings, or background processes.
Ensure your drivers are updated, check Windows power settings, and tweak in-game settings for better hardware utilization.
Is GTA V more CPU or GPU intensive?
GTA V relies on both but is slightly CPU-intensive, especially for physics, AI, and open-world calculations. A good GPU improves visuals, but a fast CPU helps with smooth gameplay, especially in high-traffic areas and online mode.
What games make more use of CPU than GPU?
Games like Escape from Tarkov, Civilization VI, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and StarCraft II are CPU-heavy because they process AI, physics, and background mechanics.
A strong CPU ensures smooth performance, especially in large-scale battles or open-world environments.
CPU is at 60%, GPU 100% when playing. Is that fine?
Yes, it’s normal for the GPU to run at 100% while gaming, as it’s being fully utilized. If the CPU is at 60%, that’s fine too. However, if you experience stutters, your CPU may limit your GPU’s full potential.
The most CPU and GPU-intensive games for testing PC?
Try Tarkov, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and Cities: Skylines for CPU stress testing. For GPU testing, games like Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Control push high-end graphics cards to their limits, making them great for testing performance.
FAQs
1. Does Tarkov need a good GPU?
Yes, a good GPU is necessary for smooth graphics and high FPS, but Tarkov relies more on the CPU for performance.
2. What is Tarkov Intensive on?
Tarkov is CPU-intensive mainly because it handles AI, physics, and background tasks. A strong CPU is crucial for better gameplay.
3. Why is my GPU and CPU usage so low on Tarkov?
Your hardware may be bottlenecked, settings may limit performance, or background apps could be affecting Tarkov’s ability to use resources fully.
4. Can my CPU run Tarkov?
It should run fine if your CPU meets Tarkov’s minimum or recommended requirements. A stronger CPU improves FPS and smoothness in-game.
5. Does high FPS use CPU or GPU?
Both, but mainly the GPU for rendering graphics. The CPU helps with processing, especially in complex scenes or multiplayer matches.
6. Should I upgrade my CPU or GPU for Tarkov?
Upgrade your CPU first for better stability. If FPS is still low at high settings, a GPU upgrade will help graphics.
Conclusion
Escape from Tarkov is CPU-intensive mainly, but a strong GPU is essential for smooth gameplay. A balanced setup ensures the best experience. Optimizing settings, upgrading hardware, and maintaining system performance will help you maximise Tarkov.
