Stuttering in GTA 5 refers to the short pauses or freezes that can happen during gameplay. It’s like a momentary hiccup where the game seems to pause and then quickly catch up. This can sometimes disrupt the smoothness of the game and make it feel less fluid.
Sometimes, the main problem is within the game or the software itself. A little bit of minor tweaking and adjusting should do the trick.
In this post, we’ll guide you on how to fix your GTA 5 from lagging, crashing, and stuttering.
How to Fix GTA 5 From Stuttering?
Are you ready to have your GTA 5 PC Stutter fixed? Here are some solutions you can try to fix that problem.
1. Check the Minimum System Requirements
Every game has a minimum system requirement to run. To have the best experience, you need at least the minimum; if not, greater.
The minimum specifications to play GTA 5 are:
- Operating Systems: Windows 10 / Windows 11 / Windows 8.1 / Windows 7 (64 bit)
- Processors: Intel Core 2 Quad Core Processor Q6600 or AMD Phenom 9850 Quad Core
- Memory: 4GB
- Storage: 65GB
- DirectX version: DirectX 10 and above
- Video card: NVIDIA 9800 GT 1GB or AMD HD 4870
For the best gaming experience in GTA 5, these are the recommended specifications:
- Operating Systems: Windows 10 / Windows 11 / Windows 8.1 / Windows 7 (64 bit)
- Processors: Intel Core i5 3470 @ 3.2GHZ (4 CPUs) / AMD X8 FX-8350 @ 4GHZ (8 CPUs)
- Memory: 8GB
- Storage: 65GB
- DirectX version: DirectX 10 and above
- Video card: NVIDIA GTX 660 2GB / AMD HD7870 2GB
To view your system specifications, press the “Windows + R” key. Type in “dxdiag”, then click “OK”.
2. End Unnecessary Programs Running in the Background
Running applications in the background while playing games is sometimes the cause of your PC stuttering, especially when you need more RAM to run both programs simultaneously.
Many PC gamers who have recently switched from console gaming may not be aware of this, but ending unnecessary programs running in the background can often solve issues.
To do that, you must go to Task Manager by pressing CTRL + ALT + DEL on your keyboard and end programs you don’t need running. Right-click on the program you want to close, then press “End Task.” A good example would be Google Chrome.
3. Run GTA 5 As Administrator
To avoid stuttering issues, granting administrator access to GTA 5 is essential. You can do this by configuring the game and launching it as an administrator.
Find the GTA 5 application icon and right-click on it, click properties, go to the “Compatibility” tab, and select “Run as Administrator.” Save changes by clicking “Apply” and “Ok.” You can also right-click on the game icon and choose “Run as Administrator”.
4. Disable Full-Screen Optimization
You can enjoy better graphics and a more immersive experience when playing games in full-screen mode. However, the game will ultimately control your graphics card’s display and resources.
That being said, If you are experiencing stuttering issues while playing GTA 5 on your PC, try disabling full-screen mode, as it could be the reason behind the problem.
Right-click on the GTA 5 executable or shortcut and go to “Properties” > “Compatibility” > and click “Disable full-screen optimizations.” Apply changes, click “Ok,” then restart.
5. Configure GTA 5 Game Settings
Incorrect in-game settings may cause stuttering in GTA 5. Adjusting the settings might solve this issue right away. Remember that you need high-end hardware to play on “high” settings.
Turn Off V-Sync
V-Sync can prevent screen tearing in some PC games, but sometimes it may cause stuttering. Consider turning off this feature if you experience this issue.
To optimize your GTA 5 gaming performance, turn off V-Sync in the Graphics settings. If it’s already off, turn it on, restart the game, and then turn it off again.
Reduce FPS
High FPS isn’t always necessary for optimal gameplay. Some games, like GTA 5, can’t handle high FPS and may result in lagging or stuttering issues. 60 Hz FPS is enough for GTA 5.
Lower your FPS in GTA 5 by going to Settings > Graphics > Refresh Rate to 60 Hz or lower if you experience stuttering in gameplay. Restart the game to see if the issue is fixed.
Set Graphics Settings to Normal
Apart from above, you also need to pay attention to the following graphical settings:
- Texture Quality
- Shader Quality
- Shadow Quality
- Reflection Quality
- Grass Quality
Adjusting these settings to “normal” can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Just go to the “Game Settings” menu, then select the “Graphics” tab, and you’ll find these five options. However, if you have a high-spec PC, this section may not be a major concern for you.
6. Update Your Graphics Driver to the Latest Firmware
If you’re experiencing stuttering while playing GTA 5 on your PC, it could be due to an outdated or ineffective graphics driver. The solution is to update it to the latest version.
For NVIDIA Users
If you own an NVIDIA graphics card from the GT, GTX, or RTX series, here is the process for updating it.
Simply access the NVIDIA GeForce Experience application on your PC, click the “Drivers” tab, select “Check for updates,” and download the available updates.
If you cannot find the install button, it may be because your graphics driver is already updated to the latest firmware.
For Radeon Users
If you’re an AMD fan using this graphics card for a while, here’s a guide on updating your graphics driver.
Go to AMD’s website and download your driver there. Just input your graphics card model and number, then click submit. It will direct you to another page asking what operating system you have; then choose your OS. Finally, click download.
