Diablo 4 is an action-packed RPG that demands strong hardware to deliver smooth gameplay and stunning visuals.
Diablo 4 is more GPU-intensive than CPU-intensive, relying heavily on the graphics card for smooth performance. It runs well on older CPUs like the Intel i5-2500K but benefits from a stronger GPU for higher settings.
Whether you’re gaming on a PC, PS4, or a mid-range setup, knowing how the game uses your hardware can improve performance. Let’s dive into Diablo 4’s system demands and find the best setup!
Understanding CPU vs. GPU in Gaming Performance
Before diving into Diablo 4’s specific requirements, it’s essential to understand the difference between CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) when it comes to gaming:
- The CPU handles game logic, physics calculations, AI behavior, and background processes.
- The GPU is responsible for rendering graphics, processing textures, managing lighting and shadows, and handling visual effects.
Some games rely heavily on the CPU, while others push the GPU to its limits. Let’s see how Diablo 4 fits into this equation.
Diablo 4 System Requirements: What Hardware Do You Need?
Blizzard Entertainment has released official system requirements for Diablo 4, covering multiple performance levels.
1. Minimum Requirements (Low Settings, 1080p, 30 FPS)
- CPU: Intel Core i5-2500K / AMD FX-8350
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 / AMD Radeon R9 280
- RAM: 8GB
2. Recommended Requirements (Medium Settings, 1080p, 60 FPS)
- CPU: Intel Core i5-4670K / AMD Ryzen 3 1300X
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 / AMD Radeon RX 470
- RAM: 16GB
3. High Requirements (High Settings, 1080p, 60 FPS)
- CPU: Intel Core i7-8700K / AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 / AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT
- RAM: 16GB
4. Ultra 4K Requirements (Ultra Settings, 4K, 60 FPS)
- CPU: Intel Core i7-8700K / AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 / AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT
- RAM: 32GB
These requirements clearly show that Diablo 4 is more GPU-intensive than CPU-intensive, especially at higher resolutions.
Is Diablo 4 More CPU or GPU Bound?
1. GPU Performance in Diablo 4
Diablo 4 features stunning environments, detailed character models, and impressive spell effects, heavily utilizing the GPU. The game’s ultra settings demand a powerful graphics card, particularly for ray tracing and high-resolution textures.
2. CPU Usage in Diablo 4
The CPU still handles AI processing, enemy behavior, physics interactions, and background tasks. However, Diablo 4 is not a highly CPU-bound game like strategy or simulation titles.
3. Overall Verdict
Diablo 4 leans more towards GPU dependency, particularly at higher settings. However, a good CPU is still essential to avoid bottlenecking performance.
How Well Does Diablo 4 Run on Different Hardware Setups?
1. High-End PC (RTX 3080, i7-12700K, 32GB RAM)
- Runs Diablo 4 at 4K, Ultra settings, 100+ FPS
- GPU usage remains high, but CPU utilization is relatively low (around 20-30%).
2. Mid-Range PC (RTX 3060, Ryzen 5 5600X, 16GB RAM)
- It can achieve 1440p at high settings and 60-90 FPS.
- Slightly more CPU usage (~30-40%), but GPU still does most of the work.
3. Low-End PC (GTX 1650, i5-9400F, 8GB RAM)
- Can run at 1080p, Low-Medium settings, 30-50 FPS.
- CPU usage may spike, especially in crowded areas.
What Causes Performance Bottlenecks in Diablo 4?
Even with good hardware, some players experience FPS drops, stuttering, or low GPU utilization. Common bottlenecks include:
- CPU Bottleneck: If your CPU isn’t strong enough, it can limit performance even with a powerful GPU.
- GPU Bottleneck: If your GPU is too weak, it will struggle to keep up with high settings.
- RAM Limitations: 8GB RAM might be insufficient, leading to stuttering.
- Storage Speed: Running Diablo 4 on an HDD instead of an SSD can result in longer loading times and stuttering.
How to Optimize Diablo 4 for the Best Performance
If you’re experiencing performance issues, try these optimizations:
1. In-Game Settings Tweaks
- Lower Shadow Quality, Anti-Aliasing, and Reflections to reduce GPU load.
- Turn off Ray Tracing if FPS is low.
- Use DLSS or FSR (if available) to improve performance on NVIDIA and AMD GPUs.
2. Hardware Upgrades
- Upgrade your GPU if playing at higher resolutions.
- Increase RAM to 16GB or 32GB for better multitasking and smoother gameplay.
- Switch to an SSD if running the game on an HDD.
How Does Diablo 4 Compare to Other AAA Games in Terms of Performance?
1. Compared to Cyberpunk 2077
- Diablo 4 is less GPU-intensive and doesn’t require as much VRAM.
- Cyberpunk 2077 relies heavily on ray tracing, while Diablo 4 does not.
2. Compared to Elden Ring
- Both games are more GPU-bound, but Elden Ring suffers from stuttering issues due to poor optimization.
- Diablo 4 offers better optimization and smoother performance.
3. Compared to Diablo 3
- Diablo 4 is more demanding due to its open world, better graphics, and modern rendering techniques.
- Diablo 3 runs smoothly on older hardware, while Diablo 4 requires a modern GPU.
Common Problems and Fixes for Low Performance in Diablo 4
Issue: Low FPS Despite Good Hardware
- Fix: Ensure the game utilizes the correct GPU (especially for laptops).
- Fix: Update your graphics drivers.
Issue: Stuttering and Frame Drops
- Fix: Increase the page file size in Windows.
- Fix: Disable background applications like Discord overlays.
Issue: High CPU Usage
- Fix: Reduce background processes (e.g., Chrome, Windows updates).
- Fix: Set Diablo 4 to “High Priority” in Task Manager.
Future Performance Updates and Patches for Diablo 4
Blizzard has a history of optimizing games post-launch. Potential updates may include:
- Better CPU multithreading support
- Improved VRAM usage efficiency
- DLSS 3 and FSR 3 support for better performance
Is Diablo 4 CPU or GPU Intensive on PS4?
Diablo 4 on PS4 is optimized for the console, meaning it efficiently uses both CPU and GPU. Since the PS4 has older hardware, the game runs at lower settings, relying more on the GPU for graphics but still needing the CPU for game logic and AI.
CPU Intensive Games
CPU-intensive games depend heavily on the processor for tasks like AI, physics, and world interactions. Examples include strategy games like Civilization VI and simulation games like Microsoft Flight Simulator. These games need a strong CPU to keep everything running smoothly, even with a powerful GPU.
Diablo 4 CPU Benchmarks
Diablo 4 generally runs well on modern CPUs. Benchmarks show that even mid-range processors like the Ryzen 5 5600X or Intel i5-12400 handle the game easily. The game doesn’t fully load high-end CPUs, meaning most performance issues are tied to the GPU or optimization settings.
Diablo 4 High CPU Usage
Some players report high CPU usage in Diablo 4, especially in crowded areas or big fights. This could be due to background processes, outdated drivers, or unoptimized settings. Lowering CPU-heavy settings, like physics or background NPCs, can reduce CPU load.
Is Diablo 4 Demanding?
Yes, Diablo 4 is a demanding game, especially at high settings. It needs a strong GPU for smooth graphics and a decent CPU to handle the game’s AI and physics. However, it’s well-optimized, so mid-range PCs can still run it at reasonable settings.
Diablo 4 Benchmark Test
Benchmark tests show that Diablo 4 relies more on the GPU than the CPU. High-end GPUs like the RTX 3080 can run the game at 4K ultra settings, while mid-range GPUs like the RTX 3060 perform well at 1440p. CPU usage stays moderate in most cases.
RX 580 Diablo 4
Depending on other hardware, the RX 580 can run Diablo 4 at 1080p medium settings with around 40-60 FPS. Lowering shadows and anti-aliasing can improve performance. While it’s an older GPU, it handles the game decently if you’re okay with slightly reduced visuals.
Diablo 4 Vega 64
The Vega 64 performs better than the RX 580, running Diablo 4 at 1080p high settings or 1440p medium settings with 50-70 FPS. It’s still a solid card, but tweaking settings like shadows and texture quality can help keep frame rates stable.
FAQs
1. Is Diablo 4 GPU Heavy?
Yes, Diablo 4 is GPU-heavy, especially at high settings. The game relies on the GPU for detailed graphics, lighting, and effects, making a strong graphics card important.
2. Why Is Diablo 4 So CPU-Intensive?
Diablo 4 can be CPU-intensive because it handles AI, physics, and background tasks. Crowded areas or online play can increase CPU load, sometimes causing performance issues.
3. How Many CPU Cores Does Diablo 4 Use?
Diablo 4 uses at least four cores efficiently but benefits from six or more. A modern CPU with good multi-threading helps maintain smooth performance in all areas.
4. Is Diablo 4 CPU or GPU Intensive on Reddit?
Reddit users agree that Diablo 4 is mostly GPU-intensive but requires a decent CPU. Performance depends on settings, with high-end GPUs running it best.
5. What Is the Most GPU-Heavy Game?
Cyberpunk 2077, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and Red Dead Redemption 2 are among the most GPU-heavy games, demanding high-end graphics cards for ultra settings and ray tracing.
6. Is Diablo 4 Good Enough for PC?
Yes, Diablo 4 runs well on most PCs with modern hardware. Even mid-range GPUs can handle it smoothly at 1080p or 1440p with optimized settings.
7. What Is the Best CPU for Diablo 4?
A Ryzen 5 5600X or Intel i5-12600K is excellent for Diablo 4. These CPUs balance performance and efficiency without bottlenecking most modern GPUs.
8. Why Is Diablo 4 Laggy?
Network issues, high CPU/GPU load, or outdated drivers can cause lag. Lowering settings, updating drivers, and checking internet stability can help fix it.
9. What Is the Hardest Class to Play in Diablo 4?
Many players say the Sorcerer is the most challenging class due to its low defense. It requires good positioning and quick reactions to survive tough fights.
10. Can RTX 3060 Run Diablo 4?
Yes, the RTX 3060 can run Diablo 4 smoothly at 1440p high settings or 1080p ultra settings, delivering 60+ FPS with minor adjustments for better performance.
Conclusion
Diablo 4 is more GPU-intensive than CPU-intensive, meaning a strong graphics card is the most important for smooth gameplay, especially at higher settings. However, a good CPU still helps with AI and background tasks. Even older CPUs can run the game, but upgrading your GPU and RAM will significantly improve performance. If you experience lag or FPS drops, adjusting settings like shadows, anti-aliasing, and ray tracing can help. Whether you’re playing on a high-end PC or a budget setup, optimizing your hardware and in-game settings ensures the best experience in Diablo 4!
