The newly released Nvidia app is causing frame rate drops in some games and PC configurations. This article explores this performance issue stemming from Nvidia's latest game optimization software.
Nvidia App Impacts Game Performance
Framerate Instability Affects Specific Games and PC Builds
PC Gamer's December 18th testing revealed performance inconsistencies. Some users reported stuttering while using the app. An Nvidia staff member suggested a temporary fix: disabling the "Game Filters and Photo Mode" overlay.
Testing Black Myth: Wukong on a high-end system (Ryzen 7 7800X3D and RTX 4070 Super) showed a slight framerate increase (59 fps to 63 fps at 1080p, Very High settings) with the overlay off. At 1440p, the difference was negligible. However, enabling the overlay and lowering graphics to Medium resulted in a significant 12% frame rate drop.
Cyberpunk 2077 testing on a Core Ultra 9 285K and RTX 4080 Super showed stable framerates regardless of overlay status. This suggests the problem is game and system-specific.
Following reports on Twitter (X), and employing the Nvidia staff's suggested fix, PC Gamer's testing confirmed the overlay's impact. However, many users still reported unstable performance. Some Twitter (X) users suggested reverting graphics drivers as a workaround. Currently, Nvidia's only official solution is disabling the overlay.
Official Nvidia App Launch
Initially launched in beta on February 22, 2024, the Nvidia app replaced GeForce Experience. Both cater to Nvidia GPU users, offering GPU optimization, game recording, and more.
Following beta testing, the official launch occurred in November 2024, coinciding with a graphics driver update. The new app features a redesigned overlay and eliminates the need for account login.
Despite improved features, Nvidia needs to address the performance issues affecting specific games and PC configurations.
