Where the data comes from
Component performance scores are sourced from PassMark CPU and GPU benchmarks, cross-referenced against real-world FPS data from trusted benchmark channels. Each CPU and GPU in the database has a normalised performance score that accounts for both synthetic benchmark performance and real-world game loads. We weight single-threaded performance more heavily for gaming workloads, and multi-threaded performance more heavily for rendering and streaming workloads.
How the bottleneck percentage is calculated
We calculate the performance ratio between your CPU and GPU at your selected resolution:
- At 1080p: CPU weight 60%, GPU weight 40%
- At 1440p: CPU weight 40%, GPU weight 60%
- At 4K: CPU weight 20%, GPU weight 80%
The bottleneck percentage represents how much the weaker component is limiting the stronger one. A 20% CPU bottleneck means your CPU is delivering 20% less throughput than your GPU can consume — upgrading the CPU would unlock roughly that much additional performance.
How RAM speed affects the result
RAM speed has a significant impact on bottleneck percentage at 1080p. A system running DDR4-2133 can show a 15 to 20% larger CPU bottleneck than the same system running DDR4-3600 with XMP enabled. This is because faster RAM reduces CPU memory latency and increases data throughput to the GPU. The calculator accounts for this when you select your RAM speed.
How often we update
The database is updated monthly. Major GPU and CPU launches are added within 2 weeks of sufficient public benchmark data becoming available. The current database was last updated April 2026 and includes hardware through the RTX 50 series and AMD Ryzen 9000 series.
Accuracy and limitations
Accuracy is highest for popular component combinations that appear in hundreds of real-world benchmarks. Accuracy decreases for rare or very new hardware with limited public data. No online calculator can replicate the exact performance of your specific system — your game engine, driver version, RAM timings, and cooling all affect real results. Use this calculator for upgrade planning before a purchase, not as a live system diagnostic.
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