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Understanding PC Bottlenecks
What is a Bottleneck?
A bottleneck occurs when one component in your PC limits the performance of another component. In gaming, this typically happens when either your CPU or GPU can’t keep up with the other, resulting in lower performance than expected.
CPU vs GPU Bottleneck
CPU Bottleneck: Happens when your processor can’t keep up with your graphics card, common in CPU-intensive games or at lower resolutions.
GPU Bottleneck: Occurs when your graphics card is the limiting factor, more common at higher resolutions like 4K.
How to Interpret Results
0-10%: Well-balanced system
10-20%: Minor bottleneck, usually acceptable
20-30%: Moderate bottleneck, consider upgrading
30%+: Significant bottleneck, upgrade recommended
PC performance tuning • Gaming & creator workloads • CPU vs GPU balance
Bottleneck Calculator Guide: Find CPU vs GPU Limits (Gaming, Streaming, Editing)
A bottleneck calculator helps you understand whether your PC performance is being limited by an imbalance between your CPU, GPU, RAM, or storage. This guide explains what a bottleneck is, why it matters, how bottleneck calculators work, and what to do next—so you can build, upgrade, or troubleshoot with confidence.
What Is a Bottleneck in a PC?
A bottleneck in a PC happens when the performance of your entire system is restricted by the limitation of one component—most commonly the CPU (processor) or GPU (graphics card). When one part can’t keep up with the rest, it creates a performance imbalance that reduces gaming frame rates, slows down creative workloads, and makes a PC feel “weaker” than it should be—even if you’ve invested in expensive hardware.
The concept comes from a real bottle: the narrow neck limits how fast liquid can pour out. In computing, the “narrow neck” is the weakest link. Even if you have a high-end GPU, a weak CPU can restrict it. Or a flagship CPU can be wasted if your GPU is entry-level for your tasks.
CPU Bottleneck vs. GPU Bottleneck
Most bottlenecks occur between the CPU and GPU. A CPU bottleneck happens when your processor can’t feed the GPU fast enough, so the GPU waits. This often shows up as lower FPS, stutter, or inconsistent frame times—especially at 1080p or in CPU-heavy games.
A GPU bottleneck happens when the graphics card can’t keep up with the workload. In this case, the GPU is pegged near 99–100% usage while CPU usage remains moderate. This is common in 4K gaming, ray tracing, and GPU-heavy creator workflows (3D viewports, effects-heavy timelines, etc.).
CPU bottleneck: typical pattern
- CPU usage often 90–100%
- GPU usage noticeably lower (e.g., 50–70%)
- FPS dips in busy scenes (AI, physics, big cities)
- Lowering graphics settings doesn’t improve FPS much
GPU bottleneck: typical pattern
- GPU usage often 95–100%
- CPU usage moderate (e.g., 30–60%)
- FPS improves when lowering resolution or ray tracing
- Higher resolution shifts more load to GPU (expected)
The Impact of Bottlenecks on Real-World Performance
When your system has a bottleneck, it can show up as:
- Choppy or inconsistent frame rates in games
- High CPU or GPU usage while other components remain underutilized
- Slow rendering/export times in video editing or 3D tools
- Multitasking sluggishness when juggling large files or heavy apps
- Reduced system efficiency during productivity or content creation workflows
What Causes a Bottleneck in a Computer?
Bottlenecks usually come from hardware imbalance or configuration issues. The most common causes include:
- Pairing a high-end GPU with a budget or outdated CPU
- Running modern AAA games on CPUs with low core/thread counts
- Too little or too slow RAM (especially for creators and heavy multitasking)
- Using a mechanical HDD instead of an SSD (or NVMe) for demanding workflows
- Inadequate cooling/airflow causing thermal throttling
- Background processes or malware consuming resources
- Outdated BIOS, chipset drivers, or GPU drivers
How to Check for a Bottleneck in Your PC
There are two reliable approaches: monitoring real usage and using a calculator to forecast compatibility.
1) Real-time monitoring
Tools like MSI Afterburner, HWInfo, and Task Manager show CPU/GPU utilization. If CPU is stuck near 100% while GPU is much lower, it’s often a CPU bottleneck. If GPU is pinned near 99–100% while CPU is moderate, it’s often GPU-limited.
2) Bottleneck calculator tools
Online bottleneck calculators estimate how balanced your CPU/GPU combo is for workloads like gaming, streaming, or editing. They’re great for planning upgrades, even if they aren’t perfect.
3) In-game overlays and benchmarks
Many games include overlays for FPS, frame time, CPU/GPU usage, and temps. Synthetic benchmarks like Cinebench and 3DMark can also highlight where your system is underperforming compared to expected results.
Can a Bottleneck Be Fixed?
Yes. Every PC has a “limit” somewhere, but most bottlenecks can be reduced or eliminated for your target workload. Fixes depend on the bottleneck source:
Fixing CPU bottlenecks
- Upgrade CPU (more cores/threads, higher IPC)
- Enable XMP/EXPO + correct power settings
- Close background apps; reduce CPU-heavy settings
- Overclock (only with adequate cooling/PSU)
Fixing GPU bottlenecks
- Upgrade GPU (more raw performance / VRAM)
- Lower resolution scaling or ray tracing
- Optimize in-game settings and drivers
- Avoid GPU-heavy background tasks while gaming
Why this matters: Many upgrades fail because they improve only one component. The fastest way to avoid wasted money is to build a balanced system that matches your real workload (1080p high-FPS, 4K ultra, streaming + gaming, 4K editing, 3D rendering, etc.).
Why Bottlenecks Matter for Gamers & Creators
Bottlenecks are often the hidden reason a PC “doesn’t feel fast” despite strong parts. Gamers notice it as unstable FPS and stutter. Creators feel it as slow exports, laggy previews, and poor multitasking. Understanding bottlenecks helps you build a system that performs consistently—not just on paper.
How Bottlenecks Affect Gamers
1) Reduced frame rates (FPS)
If a CPU can’t generate frames quickly enough, your GPU can’t do its job at full speed—so FPS gets capped. This is especially common in CPU-heavy titles (open-world, simulation, strategy) and at 1080p where the GPU has less work per frame.
2) Inconsistent frame timing (micro-stuttering)
Micro-stuttering happens when frames are delivered unevenly, creating a “hitching” effect even at high average FPS. This usually points to CPU-side stalls, background tasks, memory issues, or thermal throttling.
3) Underutilized GPUs
A classic sign of a CPU bottleneck is a powerful GPU sitting under 70% utilization in demanding scenes. That means your GPU is waiting for the CPU—so you’re not getting the performance you paid for.
4) Competitive / esports impact
Competitive shooters and esports titles benefit from very high FPS (144Hz–360Hz) to reduce latency and improve responsiveness. A CPU bottleneck can prevent your system from reaching stable high FPS even if your GPU is capable.
How Bottlenecks Affect Content Creators
1) Long render times
Rendering in tools like Premiere, Resolve, or Blender can become CPU-limited, GPU-limited, or I/O-limited depending on codec, effects, and settings. A bottleneck can add hours to production over time.
2) Real-time preview lag
Timeline playback and real-time previews require smooth CPU/GPU/RAM/storage cooperation. Weak RAM capacity, slow disks, or CPU constraints can cause choppy playback, especially with 4K/8K footage.
3) Streaming bottlenecks
Streaming while gaming loads CPU and GPU simultaneously. If the CPU lacks cores/threads, encoding and game logic compete—causing dropped frames and stutter. Hardware encoders (NVENC / AMD VCE / Intel Quick Sync) can reduce CPU load dramatically.
4) Multitasking slowdown
Creators often run multiple heavy apps (editing, browsers, asset libraries, AI tools, sync/backup). Low RAM or slow storage becomes a “silent bottleneck” that makes everything feel laggy.
| Use Case | Likely Bottleneck | Practical Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive gaming | CPU bottleneck | Higher-frequency CPU, better IPC, optimize background tasks |
| 4K gaming | GPU bottleneck | Stronger GPU, tune RT, use upscaling (DLSS/FSR) |
| 4K/8K video editing | CPU or RAM or storage | More cores/threads, 32GB+ RAM, NVMe SSD for media/cache |
| Gaming + streaming | CPU bottleneck | 8+ cores recommended; use hardware encoding |
| 3D rendering | GPU + storage (often) | More VRAM, faster SSD, balanced CPU for scene prep |
Budget reality: A $1000 GPU won’t deliver $1000 results if it’s held back by a weak CPU, slow RAM, or thermal throttling. Bottleneck awareness is how you avoid paying for performance you can’t access.
How the Bottleneck Calculator Works
A bottleneck calculator is a planning and diagnostic tool that estimates whether one PC component is limiting overall performance—primarily the CPU vs GPU relationship. It uses hardware specifications, benchmark datasets, and workload assumptions to predict how balanced your system is for a chosen scenario.
Core functionality
Most calculators analyze:
- CPU cores/threads, clock speeds, and architecture (IPC)
- GPU compute capability and memory bandwidth (plus VRAM)
- Benchmark scores (e.g., Cinebench/3DMark/PassMark-like datasets)
- Workload type (gaming vs editing vs streaming) and resolution
Bottleneck percentage explained
Many tools output a bottleneck percentage—a rough measure of mismatch. Interpret it like this:
| Range | Meaning | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10% | Excellent balance | Nothing urgent; optimize drivers/settings if needed |
| 11–20% | Acceptable | Usually fine; minor inefficiency depending on goals |
| 21–30% | Moderate bottleneck | Likely noticeable in some workloads; consider targeted upgrades |
| 30%+ | Severe mismatch | Upgrade strongly recommended for your target workload |
Workload-specific analysis
Bottlenecks shift with workload. A CPU that bottlenecks at 1080p esports may not bottleneck at 4K (where GPU becomes the limiter). A creator workflow may be limited by RAM or storage even if CPU/GPU are “good.”
Example workflow (what happens behind the scenes)
Calculator logic: compares benchmark capability → estimates CPU frame prep vs GPU render capacity → predicts waiting time → outputs bottleneck percentage and “CPU-limited” result.
Data sources and accuracy
These calculators are best used as guidance. Real results vary due to temperatures, BIOS settings, RAM configuration, driver versions, background load, and the specific game/app. For confirmation, combine calculator results with monitoring tools (usage + frame times) during your real workload.
Limitations you should know
- Assumes ideal cooling and stable clocks (no throttling)
- Often simplifies RAM speed/latency and platform details
- Cannot fully simulate specific game engines or codecs
- Does not always model background tasks or OS overhead
How to Use the Bottleneck Calculator
Using a bottleneck calculator is one of the fastest ways to prevent costly upgrade mistakes. It helps you decide whether to upgrade CPU, GPU, RAM, or storage first based on your actual goals (1080p competitive FPS, 1440p high settings, 4K ultra, streaming + gaming, 4K editing, 3D work).
Step-by-step usage
Choose a reputable calculator
Prefer tools that are updated and allow resolution/workload selection. Avoid tools that don’t explain assumptions.
Enter your exact CPU and GPU models
Model precision matters (generation and SKU). “i5” or “Ryzen 7” is not enough for accurate analysis.
Add RAM, storage, and resolution (if available)
These inputs significantly influence results—especially for creators and 1080p vs 4K gaming.
Run the analysis and read what’s limiting performance
Look for whether you’re CPU-limited or GPU-limited and the estimated mismatch percentage.
Translate the result into an action plan
Decide whether the fix is settings/optimization, a targeted upgrade, or a broader rebuild for balance.
How to interpret results without overreacting
- 10% or lower: you’re in good shape. Focus on drivers, temps, and settings.
- 11–20%: typically fine unless you’re chasing ultra-high FPS or pro workloads.
- 21–30%: you may feel it in frame-time stability or render/preview performance.
- 30%+: strong mismatch—usually worth addressing before spending on anything else.
Verification step: After you run a calculator, confirm with real monitoring. If CPU is pinned and GPU is low in your real game/app, you’ve verified a CPU bottleneck. If GPU is pinned in the same workload, you’re GPU-limited.
Tips for accurate bottleneck analysis
- Select the exact CPU/GPU model and correct variant (F/K/X3D, Ti/Super, etc.).
- Match the calculator scenario to your real use (1080p esports vs 4K ray tracing vs editing).
- Use multiple sources: calculator + benchmarks + real monitoring.
- Don’t panic over small bottlenecks—every system has one depending on the task.
Examples of Bottleneck Scenarios
Real-world combinations make bottlenecks easy to understand. Below are common scenarios showing how resolution and workload change which component becomes the limiting factor. Treat percentages as illustrative—your results can vary by game engine, settings, and thermal behavior.
Scenario 1: CPU bottleneck in 1080p gaming
CPU: Intel Core i3-12100F • GPU: RTX 4080 • Use: 1080p ultra
A 4-core/8-thread CPU can struggle to feed a high-end GPU at 1080p in many modern titles. Result: lower-than-expected FPS, stutter in busy scenes, and underutilized GPU.
Takeaway: Avoid top-tier GPUs with budget CPUs if your goal is high-FPS 1080p.
Scenario 2: Balanced build for 1440p gaming
CPU: Ryzen 5 7600X • GPU: RX 7700 XT • Use: 1440p high
A strong mid-range CPU paired with a capable 1440p GPU often produces minimal bottlenecks. Both components operate near expected utilization under load.
Takeaway: 1440p is where many builds feel the most balanced.
Scenario 3: GPU bottleneck in a workstation build
CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K • GPU: GTX 1650 • Use: 3D rendering
A flagship CPU paired with an entry-level GPU wastes CPU potential in GPU-accelerated tasks and games. You’ll see slow viewport performance and poor FPS.
Takeaway: For graphics-heavy work, the GPU must match your productivity goals.
Scenario 4: RAM and storage bottleneck in creative workflow
CPU: Ryzen 9 7950X • GPU: RTX 4070 Ti • RAM: 8GB • Storage: HDD • Use: 4K editing
Even with strong CPU/GPU, low RAM and slow storage can cause preview lag, slow exports, and general sluggishness. 4K editing typically benefits from 16–32GB+ RAM and SSD/NVMe storage for media and cache.
Takeaway: Bottlenecks aren’t only CPU vs GPU—memory and I/O can dominate creator workflows.
Scenario 5: Streaming + gaming bottleneck
CPU: Intel Core i5-10400F • GPU: RTX 3060 • Use: streaming Warzone
Combined load from gaming + encoding can push mid-tier CPUs into a bottleneck, causing dropped frames and stutter. Hardware encoding (NVENC) can help.
Takeaway: Streamers should prioritize core/thread count and hardware encoding support.
Scenario 6: 4K gaming shifts the bottleneck to the GPU
CPU: Ryzen 7 7800X3D • GPU: RTX 4070 • Use: 4K ultra
At 4K, the GPU often becomes the main limiter. Even a top gaming CPU won’t “fix” FPS in GPU-heavy titles at ultra settings with ray tracing.
Takeaway: For 4K gaming, put more budget into the GPU than the CPU (after a solid baseline).
Scenario 7: Entry-level office PC (balanced for its purpose)
CPU: Intel Pentium Gold G6400 • GPU: integrated • Use: web + office
Not every system needs high-end parts. For office workloads, integrated graphics and modest CPUs can be perfectly smooth and cost-effective.
Takeaway: Define your use case first, then buy parts that match it.
Best and worst pairings at a glance
| CPU | GPU | Bottleneck Type | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 5 5600X | RTX 4060 | Balanced | Excellent combo for 1080p/1440p |
| Intel i3-10100F | RX 6800 XT | CPU bottleneck | Poor balance for high FPS gaming |
| Ryzen 9 7900X | RTX 3060 | GPU bottleneck | Wasted CPU power for graphics workloads |
| Intel i7-12700K | RTX 4080 | Minimal bottleneck | High-end synergy |
| Ryzen 5 3600 | RX 6700 XT | Mild CPU bottleneck | Often acceptable depending on game/settings |
| Intel i9-13900K | RTX 4090 | Minimal bottleneck | Premium setup |
CPU Bottleneck: Signs, Causes, Fixes
A CPU bottleneck occurs when your processor becomes the limiting factor that holds back your GPU or overall system performance. This is extremely common in 1080p gaming, high-FPS esports, heavy multitasking, and streaming setups where the CPU must do game logic + encoding.
What is a CPU bottleneck?
The CPU handles game logic, physics, AI, draw calls, background tasks, and OS scheduling. If it can’t keep up, the GPU sits idle waiting for new instructions. That’s why you can own a powerful GPU and still see disappointing FPS or inconsistent frame times.
Signs of a CPU bottleneck
- High CPU usage + low GPU usage: CPU often 90–100%, GPU significantly below expected utilization.
- Stuttering and frame drops: especially in busy scenes (crowds, open-world hubs, heavy AI).
- Low FPS despite strong GPU: lowering graphics doesn’t increase FPS much (because the limit is CPU-side).
- High CPU temperatures: or frequent thermal throttling reduces clocks and worsens the bottleneck.
- Input delay / poor responsiveness: when CPU scheduling is overloaded.
What causes a CPU bottleneck?
- Low core/thread count: modern games and streaming workflows scale with more threads.
- Older CPU architecture: lower IPC and weaker memory subsystem can limit modern GPUs.
- 1080p high-FPS targets: lower resolution shifts the bottleneck toward CPU.
- Background processes: browsers, updaters, antivirus scans, overlays, and bloatware.
- RAM issues: low capacity, single-channel, slow speeds can amplify CPU limitations.
How to check for a CPU bottleneck
How to fix a CPU bottleneck (without upgrading)
- Lower CPU-heavy settings: view distance, crowd density, simulation/physics, shadows (in some engines).
- Close background apps: browsers, launchers, sync tools, heavy overlays.
- Use GPU-based encoding: in OBS switch from x264 to NVENC/AMD VCE/Quick Sync.
- Increase resolution: moving 1080p → 1440p shifts more work to GPU (sometimes stabilizes frame pacing).
- Enable XMP/EXPO: and confirm dual-channel memory for better CPU throughput.
- Power plan: use a performance-friendly power mode to avoid aggressive CPU downclocking.
- Thermals: improve cooling to prevent throttling.
When to upgrade your CPU
Upgrade becomes likely when you’ve optimized settings and background load, but your CPU still hits near 100% in your core workload, GPU is consistently underused, and frame pacing remains unstable. In that case, more cores/threads and newer architecture (better IPC) usually brings immediate gains.
Best CPU upgrade practices
- Confirm motherboard socket/chipset compatibility.
- Match CPU class to GPU class and your target resolution.
- Prioritize newer architecture and strong single-thread performance for gaming.
- For streaming/creation, aim for 8+ cores (or equivalent thread capacity) depending on workload.
Best Practices to Avoid Bottlenecks
Avoiding bottlenecks isn’t about buying the most expensive parts—it’s about building a balanced system where each component complements the others for your specific workload. Use these best practices as your bottleneck avoidance framework.
1) Match CPU and GPU performance levels
The most important rule: keep CPU and GPU in the same “performance tier.” If you pair a flagship GPU with an entry-level CPU, you’ll waste GPU potential. If you pair a flagship CPU with an entry GPU, you’ll waste CPU potential in graphics-heavy workloads.
2) Choose the right resolution for your setup
- 1080p: CPU bottlenecks are more common (high FPS demands more CPU).
- 1440p: often the most balanced workload split.
- 4K: typically GPU-limited; invest more in GPU for 4K targets.
3) Avoid overkill hardware for the wrong tasks
Expensive hardware doesn’t automatically improve your experience if it’s mismatched. Spend where it impacts your workload: gamers prioritize GPU (after a solid CPU baseline), creators often need more RAM and faster storage than they expect.
4) Future-proof smartly (not excessively)
Plan for 2–3 years, not 8 years. Choose a platform with upgrade potential, a PSU with headroom, and fast storage/RAM that benefits many workloads.
5) Use calculators + benchmarks (and verify with real monitoring)
A bottleneck calculator is great for planning. Benchmarks show typical outcomes. Monitoring confirms what’s happening in your exact system. Use all three for the best decisions.
6) Don’t underestimate RAM and storage
RAM best practices
- Minimum 16GB for gaming; 32GB+ for creators
- Use dual-channel configuration
- Choose sensible speed and stability (XMP/EXPO)
Storage best practices
- SSD for OS and games/apps (NVMe if possible)
- Avoid HDD for modern gaming and media work
- Use NVMe for large project files and cache/scratch
7) Cooling and power supply matter
Thermal throttling can create “fake” bottlenecks—your CPU/GPU downclocks under heat and performance drops. A weak PSU can also limit GPU power draw or stability.
8) Keep BIOS, chipset, and GPU drivers updated
Firmware and drivers influence how well components talk to each other. Up-to-date BIOS and chipset drivers can improve stability and performance.
9) Use in-game settings wisely
- CPU-heavy: draw distance, crowds, AI, physics, some shadow settings
- GPU-heavy: resolution scale, ray tracing, ambient occlusion, texture quality (VRAM dependent)
10) Re-evaluate over time
New games and software updates can shift system demands. Track your performance, identify your real bottleneck, and upgrade strategically—not impulsively.
Quick bottleneck avoidance checklist
| Component | What to check |
|---|---|
| CPU | Enough cores/threads and strong IPC for your GPU and target FPS |
| GPU | Sufficient power/VRAM for your resolution and settings (1080p/1440p/4K) |
| RAM | 16GB+ dual-channel for gaming; 32GB+ for creators; stable speed profile |
| Storage | SSD (NVMe preferred) for OS/apps/projects; avoid HDD for demanding workflows |
| Power supply | Enough wattage headroom + reputable quality certification |
| Cooling | Temps under control to avoid throttling under load |
| Resolution/monitor | Match GPU output to refresh rate; don’t chase FPS your system can’t sustain |
| BIOS/drivers | Update regularly for best utilization and compatibility |
Top CPU and GPU Pairings to Avoid Bottlenecks
The best CPU and GPU pairing is the one that fits your resolution and workload without wasting budget. Below are practical pairing groups—entry-level, mid-range, high-end, creator builds, and streaming builds. Use them as a starting point, then validate with benchmarks and your bottleneck calculator.
Entry-level gaming (1080p, medium settings)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i3-12100F | GTX 1650 / RTX 3050 | Good budget combo for esports and light AAA at 1080p |
| AMD Ryzen 5 5500 | RX 6600 | Excellent value; balanced for 1080p |
| Intel Core i5-11400 | GTX 1660 Super | Solid older pairing for casual 1080p gaming |
Mid-range gaming (1080p ultra / 1440p high)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 5 7600 | RTX 4060 Ti | Strong single-core; efficient GPU; great 1080p/1440p |
| Intel Core i5-12400F | RX 6700 XT | Excellent 1440p value with minimal bottleneck |
| AMD Ryzen 7 5700X | RTX 3070 | Good for high-FPS gaming and light streaming |
High-end gaming (1440p ultra / 4K standard)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i5-13600K | RTX 4070 Ti | Strong synergy for 1440p ultra and smooth 4K with tuning |
| AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D | RX 7900 XT | Excellent gaming balance; great frame pacing in many titles |
| Intel Core i7-12700K | RTX 4080 | Future-ready; strong multitasking alongside gaming |
Professional / creator builds (editing, 3D, CAD)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | RTX 4070 Super | Balanced for Adobe/Resolve; strong all-around workstation |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | RX 7900 XTX | Powerful for heavy workloads; ensure cooling and PSU headroom |
| AMD Ryzen 9 5950X | RTX 4080 | Great for heavy CPU workloads + GPU acceleration |
Gaming + streaming (single-PC setup)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7-13700K | RTX 4070 | Strong multi-thread; great with hardware encoding |
| AMD Ryzen 7 7700 | RX 7800 XT | Efficient balance for streaming and high-FPS gaming |
| Intel Core i5-13500 | RTX 4060 | Budget-friendly stream + game combo (use NVENC) |
Overpowered setups (maximum headroom)
| CPU | GPU | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i9-14900K | RTX 4090 | Peak performance; requires premium cooling and PSU |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D | RX 7900 XTX | High-end AMD combo; excellent for mixed workloads |
| Intel Core i7-14700K | RTX 4080 Super | Powerful, efficient, and versatile for gaming + creation |
Important context: Even perfect CPU/GPU pairings can feel bottlenecked if RAM is single-channel, storage is a slow HDD, or the system is throttling due to heat. “Balance” is a system-wide concept, not just two parts.