PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) took the gaming world by storm, popularizing the battle royale genre and pushing PC hardware to its limits. For gamers on a budget, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 was a popular choice, offering a relatively affordable entry point into PC gaming. But the burning question remains: can a GTX 1050 actually run PUBG and, more importantly, can it run it well? This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the GTX 1050’s performance in PUBG, covering everything from minimum and recommended specifications to tweaking settings for optimal gameplay.
Understanding PUBG’s System Requirements
Before diving into real-world performance, it’s crucial to understand what PUBG officially requires from your system. The system requirements provide a baseline expectation for the game to function, although achieving enjoyable performance is another matter.
Minimum System Requirements
The minimum system requirements for PUBG, as listed by the developers, are:
- OS: 64-bit Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10
- Processor: Intel Core i5-4430 / AMD FX-6300
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 2GB / AMD Radeon R7 370 2GB
- DirectX: Version 11
- Network: Broadband Internet connection
- Storage: 30 GB available space
The GTX 960 2GB is listed as the minimum graphics card. While the GTX 1050 generally performs similarly to the GTX 960, this doesn’t guarantee a smooth experience. Minimum requirements typically aim for playable frame rates at low settings and may not be representative of what most gamers consider acceptable.
Recommended System Requirements
The recommended system requirements aim for a more enjoyable experience with better graphics settings and smoother frame rates. These requirements are:
- OS: 64-bit Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10
- Processor: Intel Core i5-6600K / AMD Ryzen 5 1600
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB / AMD Radeon RX 580 4GB
- DirectX: Version 11
- Network: Broadband Internet connection
- Storage: 30 GB available space
The GTX 1060 3GB is the recommended graphics card. The GTX 1050 falls significantly short of this recommendation. This suggests that achieving high frame rates and graphical fidelity with a GTX 1050 will be challenging.
GTX 1050 Performance In PUBG: Real-World Scenarios
While official requirements offer a guideline, real-world performance varies greatly depending on other system components, in-game settings, and resolution. Let’s examine what kind of performance you can realistically expect from a GTX 1050 in PUBG.
1080p Gaming Performance
1080p (1920×1080) is the most common resolution for gaming monitors. With a GTX 1050, achieving a consistent 60 FPS at 1080p in PUBG requires significant compromises in graphics settings.
At low settings, you can expect to average around 40-60 FPS in less demanding areas of the map. However, frame rates can dip significantly during intense firefights or when navigating densely populated areas like Pochinki or Georgopol.
At medium settings, the average FPS will likely fall to the 30-45 range, with even more pronounced dips during demanding scenarios. This can result in stuttering and a less responsive gaming experience.
High settings are generally not recommended for a GTX 1050 in PUBG at 1080p. Frame rates will likely be consistently below 30 FPS, making the game difficult to play competitively.
720p Gaming Performance
Lowering the resolution to 720p (1280×720) can significantly improve frame rates, but at the cost of visual fidelity. This is a viable option for gamers who prioritize smooth gameplay over graphical detail.
At low settings and 720p, a GTX 1050 can often maintain a more consistent 60+ FPS, providing a much smoother and more responsive experience.
At medium settings and 720p, you can expect frame rates to remain mostly above 45 FPS, with occasional dips depending on the in-game situation.
High settings at 720p may be possible, but expect noticeable performance drops, especially during intense combat.
The Importance Of Other System Components
The GTX 1050 is not the only factor determining PUBG performance. The CPU, RAM, and storage device also play crucial roles.
A weak CPU can bottleneck the GTX 1050, preventing it from reaching its full potential. Ideally, you should pair the GTX 1050 with at least an Intel Core i5-4460 or an AMD Ryzen 3 1200.
8GB of RAM is the minimum requirement, but 16GB is highly recommended for a smoother experience, especially with background applications running.
Installing PUBG on an SSD significantly reduces loading times and can improve overall responsiveness.
Optimizing PUBG Settings For The GTX 1050
Even with a modest graphics card like the GTX 1050, you can significantly improve performance by tweaking the in-game settings. Here’s a breakdown of the most important settings to adjust:
Key Graphics Settings
- Overall Quality: Start by setting this to “Low” or “Very Low.” This will provide the biggest performance boost. Gradually increase this setting to “Medium” if your frame rates are consistently high.
- Screen Scale: This setting directly impacts the rendering resolution. Lowering it can significantly improve performance, but at the cost of image clarity. Experiment with values between 70 and 100 to find a balance between performance and visuals.
- Anti-Aliasing: This setting smooths out jagged edges, but it can be demanding on the GPU. Set it to “Low” or disable it entirely for better performance.
- Post-Processing: This setting affects visual effects like bloom and motion blur. Set it to “Low” to minimize its impact on performance.
- Shadows: Shadows are one of the most demanding graphics settings. Set them to “Very Low” or “Disabled” for a significant performance boost.
- Textures: This setting affects the detail of textures in the game. While it can impact visual quality, it has a relatively smaller impact on performance compared to shadows and anti-aliasing. You can usually set this to “Medium” without a significant performance penalty.
- Effects: This setting controls the visual effects of explosions and other in-game events. Set it to “Low” to improve performance during combat.
- Foliage: This setting controls the density of vegetation in the game. Set it to “Very Low” to improve performance in outdoor areas.
- View Distance: This setting determines how far away objects are rendered. Setting it to “Ultra” allows you to see enemies from a greater distance, but it can also impact performance. Experiment with different values to find a balance between visual detail and performance.
Advanced Optimization Techniques
- Disable V-Sync: V-Sync synchronizes the game’s frame rate with your monitor’s refresh rate, which can prevent screen tearing but can also introduce input lag and limit frame rates. Disabling V-Sync can improve performance, but you may experience screen tearing.
- Adjust NVIDIA Control Panel Settings: In the NVIDIA Control Panel, you can adjust settings like power management mode and texture filtering to optimize performance. Set “Power management mode” to “Prefer maximum performance” and “Texture filtering – Quality” to “High performance.”
- Update Drivers: Make sure you have the latest NVIDIA drivers installed. These drivers often include performance optimizations for specific games.
Alternative Graphics Cards For PUBG
If the GTX 1050 isn’t delivering the performance you desire, consider upgrading to a more powerful graphics card. Here are a few alternatives that offer significantly better performance in PUBG:
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 6GB: This card is the recommended GPU for PUBG and offers a significant performance boost over the GTX 1050.
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Super: This card provides excellent value for money and offers performance similar to the GTX 1060 6GB.
- AMD Radeon RX 580 8GB: This card is another excellent option that offers performance comparable to the GTX 1060 6GB.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050: A more modern card that offers superior performance and access to features like DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), which can further boost frame rates.
Upgrading to one of these cards will allow you to play PUBG at higher settings and achieve smoother frame rates.
The Verdict: Is PUBG Playable On A GTX 1050?
Yes, PUBG is playable on a GTX 1050, but it requires significant compromises in graphics settings. At 1080p, you’ll need to play on low settings and accept frame rate dips during demanding situations. Lowering the resolution to 720p can provide a smoother experience, but at the cost of visual fidelity.
Ultimately, the playability of PUBG on a GTX 1050 depends on your individual preferences and tolerance for lower frame rates and visual quality. If you prioritize smooth gameplay and don’t mind playing on low settings, the GTX 1050 can provide an acceptable experience. However, if you want to play PUBG at higher settings and achieve consistently high frame rates, you’ll need to upgrade to a more powerful graphics card.
Can I Play PUBG On A GTX 1050?
Yes, you can play PUBG on a GTX 1050. However, the experience will likely be heavily dependent on your expectations and other system components. You’ll need to make significant adjustments to the graphics settings to achieve playable frame rates. Expect to primarily play at low or very low settings, and possibly a lower resolution like 720p or 900p to maintain a somewhat smooth experience.
It’s important to consider your CPU, RAM, and storage as well. A more powerful CPU, at least 8GB (preferably 16GB) of RAM, and having the game installed on an SSD will drastically improve overall performance and reduce stuttering. Don’t expect a high fidelity experience, but with optimized settings and a balanced system, you can enjoy PUBG on a GTX 1050.
What Frame Rates Can I Expect With A GTX 1050 In PUBG?
Frame rates with a GTX 1050 in PUBG will vary greatly depending on your settings and system configuration. On low settings, you might see average frame rates between 30 and 50 FPS. Expect frequent dips below 30 FPS in demanding situations like crowded areas or intense firefights. Using higher settings can easily drop your frame rates to unplayable levels, possibly below 20 FPS.
Resolution also plays a crucial role. Playing at 720p or 900p can significantly improve frame rates compared to 1080p. Consider experimenting with different resolutions and graphics settings to find a balance between visual quality and performance that works for you. Monitoring your CPU and GPU usage is also key to identifying any bottlenecks.
Which Settings Should I Adjust To Improve PUBG Performance On A GTX 1050?
To improve PUBG performance on a GTX 1050, prioritize lowering the most demanding settings. Start by setting the overall graphics quality to “Very Low.” Then, individually adjust the following: Anti-aliasing (disable or set to very low), Shadows (very low or disable), Textures (medium or low, depending on your VRAM), Effects (very low), Foliage (very low), and View Distance (medium or low). These settings have the most significant impact on performance.
Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your system. Consider also disabling features like motion blur and screen space reflections. Keep an eye on your frame rates while making adjustments. Third-party tools for monitoring your CPU and GPU usage during gameplay can help identify performance bottlenecks and guide your settings adjustments.
Will Overclocking My GTX 1050 Significantly Improve PUBG Performance?
Overclocking your GTX 1050 can provide a small, but potentially noticeable, performance boost in PUBG. The extent of the improvement will depend on the specific card, the overclocking headroom available, and your system’s cooling capacity. Expect a few extra FPS on average, which could potentially help smooth out gameplay, especially during intense moments. However, don’t expect a dramatic transformation.
Before overclocking, ensure your card has adequate cooling and that you understand the risks involved, such as potential instability or decreased lifespan. Start with small increments and gradually increase clock speeds while monitoring temperatures and stability. Use benchmark tools and in-game performance metrics to assess the impact of your overclocking efforts. Remember that overclocking is never guaranteed and results may vary.
Does The Amount Of VRAM On My GTX 1050 Affect PUBG Performance?
Yes, the amount of VRAM (Video RAM) on your GTX 1050 directly affects PUBG performance, especially regarding texture quality. The GTX 1050 typically comes with either 2GB or 4GB of VRAM. The 4GB variant will generally offer better performance, particularly with slightly higher texture settings, as it can store more game assets directly on the graphics card, reducing the need to constantly fetch data from system RAM.
If you have a 2GB version, you’ll likely need to keep texture settings on low or medium to avoid stuttering and frame rate drops. Exceeding the available VRAM leads to performance degradation. Monitoring VRAM usage while playing PUBG can help you fine-tune your settings for optimal performance based on your specific card’s VRAM capacity.
What Other Components Besides The GTX 1050 Are Important For PUBG Performance?
Besides the GTX 1050, your CPU, RAM, and storage device are crucial for PUBG performance. A weak CPU can bottleneck the GPU, preventing it from reaching its full potential. Aim for at least an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 3 processor. Insufficient RAM, especially less than 8GB, will cause stuttering and slow loading times. 16GB is highly recommended for a smoother experience.
Having the game installed on an SSD (Solid State Drive) significantly reduces loading times and improves overall responsiveness compared to a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive). An SSD allows the game to quickly access textures and other assets, minimizing delays and improving the overall fluidity of gameplay. Make sure your power supply unit (PSU) has enough wattage to handle all your components.
Are There Any Specific PUBG Settings Or Launch Options I Should Use With A GTX 1050?
While there aren’t magic settings, some PUBG-specific adjustments can improve performance on a GTX 1050. In the game settings, ensure your rendering scale is set to 100%. Lowering it can increase FPS, but will also blur the image significantly. Experiment with different settings to find what works for your system. Also, disabling features like “Nvidia Highlights” can free up resources.
Consider exploring launch options within Steam. Right-click on PUBG in your Steam library, go to “Properties,” then “General,” and click “Set Launch Options.” Some players report improvements with commands like “-USEALLAVAILABLECORES” or “-malloc=system”. However, their effectiveness can vary, so test them individually and monitor your performance. Keep your graphics drivers updated to the latest version for optimal compatibility and performance enhancements.