Nvidia App Causes FPS Drops in Some Games and PCs

The recently released Nvidia app is causing frame rate drops in some games and on certain PC configurations. This article explores this performance issue stemming from Nvidia's latest game optimization software.

Nvidia App Impacting Game Performance

Unstable Frame Rates Affecting Specific Games and PC Builds

PC Gamer's December 18th testing revealed performance issues with the Nvidia app on some PCs and games. Several users reported stuttering. In response to growing concerns, an Nvidia staff member suggested a temporary fix: disabling the "Game Filters and Photo Mode" overlay.

Tests using a high-end system (Ryzen 7 7800X3D and RTX 4070 Super) playing Black Myth: Wukong at 1080p (Very High settings) showed a slight framerate increase from 59 fps to 63 fps with the overlay off. At 1440p, the difference was negligible. However, enabling the overlay and reducing graphics to Medium resulted in a significant 12% frame rate drop. Testing Cyberpunk 2077 on a Core Ultra 9 285K and RTX 4080 Super showed no noticeable impact from the overlay. This suggests the problem is game and/or hardware specific.

PC Gamer's testing, prompted by user reports on Twitter (X), confirmed the temporary fix suggested by Nvidia. Disabling the overlay helped, but many players still experienced instability. Some users on the same Twitter (X) thread recommended reverting to older graphics drivers, while others questioned which games are affected. Currently, Nvidia's only official solution is disabling the overlay.

Nvidia App's Official Launch

Initially launched in beta on February 22, 2024, the Nvidia app replaced GeForce Experience. Both applications are designed for Nvidia GPU users, offering GPU optimization, game recording, and more.

Following beta testing, the app officially launched in November 2024, completely replacing GeForce Experience. This launch coincided with a graphics driver update in preparation for upcoming game releases. The new app features a redesigned overlay and eliminates the need for separate account logins.

Despite offering improved features, Nvidia needs to address the performance issues affecting certain games and PC configurations.