How to Fix High CPU Usage in Destiny 2
Experiencing high CPU usage while playing Destiny 2 can be frustrating, leading to stuttering, low frame rates, and an overall poor gaming experience. The good news is that there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to alleviate this issue. The primary solutions involve optimizing your in-game settings, updating your drivers, closing unnecessary background programs, and ensuring your system meets the game’s requirements. More advanced solutions may include adjusting power settings, checking for malware, and even considering hardware upgrades if necessary.
Troubleshooting Steps to Reduce CPU Usage
1. Optimize In-Game Graphics Settings
Destiny 2 offers a wide range of graphical settings that can significantly impact CPU and GPU usage. Start by setting all graphics options to their lowest possible values. This includes settings like texture quality, shadow quality, anti-aliasing, and ambient occlusion. Lowering these settings reduces the load on both your CPU and GPU, which can improve performance.
Next, experiment with the resolution. Lowering the resolution can drastically reduce the workload on your system. Destiny 2 has a resolution scaler that allows you to lower the in-game resolution while maintaining sharp text and HUD elements, so you can find a balance between visual quality and performance.
2. Close Unnecessary Background Programs
Many programs running in the background can consume CPU resources, even when they appear inactive. Before launching Destiny 2, close any programs you don’t need, such as web browsers, music players, and other applications. Use the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to identify programs consuming a significant amount of CPU and close them.
Pay special attention to programs that automatically start with Windows, as they can contribute to high CPU usage without your knowledge. You can disable these programs in the Task Manager’s Startup tab.
3. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can often cause performance issues in games. Make sure you have the latest drivers installed for your GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). You can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website (Nvidia or AMD) or through their respective software (Nvidia GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software).
Installing the latest drivers can provide performance improvements and bug fixes specifically tailored for Destiny 2.
4. Update Windows and BIOS
Keeping your operating system and BIOS updated is crucial for system stability and performance. Windows updates often include performance enhancements and bug fixes that can improve gaming performance. Check for updates in Windows Update settings.
Updating your BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) can also improve hardware compatibility and performance. However, this is a more advanced procedure, so proceed with caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
5. Check for Malware and Viruses
Malware and viruses can consume CPU resources and significantly impact your system’s performance. Run a full system scan with your antivirus software to detect and remove any malicious software.
Consider using a reputable anti-malware tool for a more thorough scan, as some malware can be difficult to detect with standard antivirus programs.
6. Adjust Power Settings
Windows power settings can affect CPU performance. By default, Windows may be set to a balanced power plan, which limits CPU performance to conserve energy. Change the power plan to “High Performance” to ensure that your CPU is running at its maximum potential.
You can find the power settings in the Control Panel or through the Windows settings app. Note that using the High Performance plan may increase power consumption and heat generation.
7. Verify Game File Integrity
Corrupted game files can cause performance issues and high CPU usage. Verify the integrity of Destiny 2’s game files through the Steam client. This process will check for and replace any corrupted or missing files.
To verify the game files, right-click on Destiny 2 in your Steam library, select “Properties,” go to the “Local Files” tab, and click “Verify Integrity of Game Files.”
8. Monitor CPU Temperature
Overheating can cause the CPU to throttle, which can lead to performance issues and high CPU usage. Monitor your CPU temperature while playing Destiny 2 using monitoring software like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner.
If your CPU temperature is consistently above 80-90 degrees Celsius, you may need to improve your cooling solution. This could involve reapplying thermal paste, upgrading your CPU cooler, or improving the airflow in your case. Yes, 100 degrees Celsius is quite hot for a CPU.
9. Upgrade Hardware
If none of the above steps improve CPU usage, your system may be limited by its hardware. Consider upgrading your CPU, RAM, or GPU to improve performance.
- CPU: A more powerful CPU can handle the game’s processing demands more efficiently.
- RAM: Insufficient RAM can cause the system to rely on the hard drive for virtual memory, which can slow down performance. Destiny 2 ideally needs 8GB of RAM or more.
- GPU: While Destiny 2 is more GPU-dependent, a better GPU can still reduce the load on the CPU. If your graphics card is utilized between 95 and 100 percent, the processor is strong enough.
10. Reinstall Destiny 2
As a last resort, try reinstalling Destiny 2. This can resolve issues caused by corrupted game files or installation problems that weren’t fixed by the file integrity check.
Destiny 2 and the Games Learning Society
The complexities of optimizing a game like Destiny 2 highlight the need for a deeper understanding of technology and its applications. Organizations like the Games Learning Society play a crucial role in advancing knowledge and research in the field of game-based learning and technology. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about their work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Destiny 2 CPU or GPU intensive?
Destiny 2 depends more on the GPU even though it has good multi-core/multi-thread CPU utilization. If your GPU is underutilized, your CPU may be a bottleneck.
2. How much CPU usage is normal for Destiny 2?
Ideally, Destiny 2 should utilize around 30-40% of your CPU resources. Lower CPU usage (e.g., 2%) could indicate poor optimization or other system issues.
3. Why is my CPU usage at 100% while playing Destiny 2?
High CPU usage can be caused by running too many programs simultaneously, background processes, malware, or outdated drivers. It can also indicate that your CPU is struggling to keep up with the game’s demands.
4. What settings lower CPU usage in Destiny 2?
Lowering graphics settings like texture quality, shadow quality, and resolution can reduce CPU usage. Setting the power plan to “Power Saver” can also help, though it may impact performance.
5. Does RAM affect CPU usage in Destiny 2?
Yes, insufficient RAM can increase CPU usage as the system relies on the hard drive for virtual memory. Ensure you have at least 8GB of RAM for optimal performance.
6. Is Destiny 2 optimized for multiple cores?
Yes, Destiny 2 exhibits excellent multi-core/multi-thread CPU utilization, which helps distribute the workload across multiple CPU cores.
7. Will upgrading to an SSD improve CPU usage in Destiny 2?
While an SSD primarily improves loading times and overall system responsiveness, it can indirectly reduce CPU usage by allowing the game to access data faster. You do not need to install an internal SSD drive on your console or PC to enjoy the benefits of an SSD.
8. Is it safe to overclock my CPU to improve Destiny 2 performance?
Overclocking can improve performance but also carries risks, such as overheating and system instability. Make sure your CPU and motherboard support overclocking, and have adequate cooling. Run CPU stress tests and record baseline performance benchmarks before. Adjust CPU Voltage.
9. How do I monitor my CPU temperature while playing Destiny 2?
Use monitoring software like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to track your CPU temperature in real-time.
10. What is a normal CPU temperature while gaming?
A good CPU temperature while gaming is between 65-85°C (149–185°F). Temperatures above 90°C can indicate a cooling problem.
11. How do I identify if my CPU is bottlenecking my GPU?
If your GPU is utilized 80 percent or less, that means you’re hitting a strong CPU bottleneck.
12. Does FPS matter in Destiny 2?
Yes, FPS can impact gameplay. Some players report a ‘statistically significant’ difference between enemies’ damage output at 30 and 60 FPS.
13. Why is Destiny 2 so laggy on my PC?
Lag can be caused by high CPU usage, network issues, outdated drivers, or insufficient hardware.
14. Is Destiny 2 a demanding game?
The most demanding part of the Destiny 2 minimum system requirements is the game’s 105GB footprint on your gaming SSD or hard drive.
15. What are the minimum and recommended PC requirements for Destiny 2?
Minimum: Nvidia GeForce GTX 660 or AMD Radeon HD 7850, 6GB RAM. Recommended: GTX 970 or Radeon R9 390, 8GB RAM.