Methodology

How our estimates work — and their limits.

Scores

Each GPU and CPU has a benchmark score from 0–100 based on real-world 1080p gaming performance (averaged from public benchmarks, reviews, and aggregated test data). Scores are normalized so 100 ≈ RTX 5090 / Core Ultra 9 tier, 65 ≈ budget tier. Scores are not linear — they reflect real gaming FPS, not synthetic benchmarks.

Game Curves

Each game has a performanceCurve mapping GPU scores to FPS at 1080p/High on a reference system (e.g., 5 points: {points}). Unknown points are interpolated with Catmull-Rom splines via engine.js, giving smooth estimates between measured scores. CPU influence, RAM/VRAM, and preset multipliers are then applied.

Calculation Pipeline

FPS = interpolate(GPU score → curve) × CPU limiter × RAM/VRAM factor × resolution factor × preset factor (Low 1.4×, Med 1.15×, High 1.0×, Ultra 0.7×). Bottleneck % = relative GPU vs CPU headroom at the chosen resolution. Optimizer walks the game's settingsImpact table to suggest the cheapest visual changes to reach your target.

Limitations

Estimates are ±10–15%. Drivers, thermals, background apps, laptop power limits, and game patches shift real FPS. Curves are hand-tuned approximations, not per-card measurements. Use the numbers to compare hardware relatively — not as a purchase guarantee.

Updates

Scores and curves are updated monthly as new hardware launches and major patches change performance. We review new GPUs, CPUs and games every month. Questions? Contact us at runfps40@gmail.com.