Many players have reported that ARC Raiders Playtest experiences low FPS, lag spikes, or constant stuttering on PC. These performance issues can make the game frustrating and unplayable.
Low FPS and lag are often caused by outdated drivers, high graphics settings, insufficient hardware, or conflicting background applications. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to optimize your system and improve performance.
⚙️ Common Causes of Low FPS & Lag
Understanding the root causes will make troubleshooting more effective:
- Outdated or unstable GPU drivers
- Corrupted or missing game files
- High graphics settings beyond hardware capability
- Background applications consuming CPU, GPU, or RAM
- Overheating CPU/GPU causing throttling
- Outdated DirectX or Visual C++ libraries
- Fullscreen or resolution conflicts
🛠️ Fix 1: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated GPU drivers are the most frequent cause of stuttering and low FPS. Therefore, keeping them updated is essential.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager
- Expand Display Adapters
- Right-click your GPU → Update Driver
- Or download the latest driver manually:
- NVIDIA: www.nvidia.com/Download
- AMD: www.amd.com/en/support
- Intel: www.intel.com/download-center
✅ Result: Ensures maximum compatibility and smooth performance.
🛠️ Fix 2: Lower In-Game Graphics Settings
High graphics settings may overload your GPU and cause lag. Therefore, adjusting them can significantly improve FPS.
Recommended Settings:
- Resolution: 1920×1080 or lower
- Texture Quality: Medium
- Shadows: Low
- Anti-Aliasing: Off or FXAA
- V-Sync: Off
✅ Result: Reduces GPU load and stabilizes frame rates.
🛠️ Fix 3: Verify Game Files
Corrupted or missing files can lead to stuttering and performance issues.
Steps (Steam):
- Open Steam → Library
- Right-click ARC Raiders Playtest → Properties → Installed Files
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files
✅ Result: Repairs missing or corrupted files automatically.
🛠️ Fix 4: Close Background Applications
Other programs can consume system resources and reduce game performance.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager
- Close applications like browsers, Discord, recording software, or overlays
✅ Result: Frees up CPU, GPU, and RAM for smoother gameplay.
🛠️ Fix 5: Monitor & Optimize Temperatures
Overheating components can throttle performance and cause stuttering.
Steps:
- Install MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor
- Ensure GPU < 85°C and CPU < 90°C while gaming
- Clean dust from fans and maintain proper airflow
✅ Result: Prevents thermal throttling and stabilizes FPS.
🛠️ Fix 6: Adjust Windows Power Settings
Windows may throttle performance in power-saving mode.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → System → Power & Battery
- Set Power Mode → Best Performance
- Keep your laptop plugged in while gaming
✅ Result: Maximizes CPU/GPU performance for better FPS.
🛠️ Fix 7: Disable Overlays
Steam, Discord, and NVIDIA overlays may reduce performance.
Steps:
- Steam Overlay: Settings → In-Game → Uncheck Enable Steam Overlay
- Discord Overlay: Settings → Game Overlay → Turn off
- NVIDIA Overlay: GeForce Experience → Settings → General → Disable
✅ Result: Reduces unnecessary GPU load.
🛠️ Fix 8: Update DirectX & Visual C++
Outdated runtime libraries can cause lag and stuttering.
Steps:
- Download DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer
- Install Visual C++ Redistributables (2015–2022)
- Restart your PC
✅ Result: Ensures smooth game execution.
🛠️ Fix 9: Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)
If performance issues persist, reinstalling may fix corrupted installation files.
Steps:
- Uninstall ARC Raiders Playtest
- Delete leftover folders in the installation directory
- Reinstall the game on an SSD
✅ Result: Restores default files and configurations for smoother gameplay.
💡 Additional Tips
- Keep Windows and GPU drivers updated
- Avoid using third-party injectors or mods
- Close all unnecessary apps before launching
- Disable Windows Game Mode if FPS drops
- Use an SSD for faster load times and reduced stutter
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why does my FPS drop suddenly in ARC Raiders Playtest?
A: It’s usually due to GPU overheating, high graphics settings, or background apps consuming resources.
Q2: Will lowering resolution improve performance?
A: Yes, reducing resolution reduces GPU load and increases FPS.
Q3: Can reinstalling fix lag?
A: Yes, a clean installation removes corrupted files that may be causing stuttering.
🎯 Conclusion
Low FPS, lag, and stuttering in ARC Raiders Playtest are usually caused by outdated drivers, high graphics settings, or resource conflicts. By updating your GPU, adjusting graphics, closing background apps, and checking system performance, you can achieve smoother gameplay.
Follow these steps carefully to enjoy the Playtest without interruptions or performance issues. 🚀