Capping a game's frame rate might seem counterintuitive, but it can improve stability and reduce hardware strain. Engadget's Dave Meikleham explains that setting an fps limit below a display's maximum refresh rate helps prevent screen tearing and keeps variable refresh rate monitors within their optimal range. This is especially useful for high-end PCs that can otherwise push frames past the display's ceiling.
The technique also lowers GPU load, which reduces fan noise and power draw. For users who want to extend the life of their graphics card or cut energy use, this is a no-cost adjustment. The article recommends using GPU software such as NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Adrenalin rather than relying on in-game limiters, which can be inconsistent.
Engadget notes that V-Sync, often paired with a frame cap, eliminates screen tearing but adds input lag. The recommended approach is to cap three or four frames below the monitor's refresh rate—for example, 57 fps on a 60Hz display—and to enable V-Sync only if tearing persists. The source is a single article, so no conflicting viewpoints are available.