The Ultimate RivaTuner (RTSS) Setup Guide: FPS Limiting & Frametime Pacing

Why Frametime Pacing Matters More Than Average FPS

Most gamers evaluate performance by looking solely at their average frames per second (FPS). However, a game running at an average of 120 FPS can still feel jittery if the delay between individual frames varies drastically—a phenomenon known as frametime variance or micro-stutter.

If frame 1 renders in 8ms, frame 2 in 22ms, and frame 3 in 6ms, your display receives frames asynchronously. RTSS solves this by synchronizing frame delivery with sub-millisecond precision, providing a rock-solid, fluid motion experience.

Step-by-Step: Configuring the RTSS Framerate Limiter

1. Download & Launch: If you have not installed RTSS yet, grab the verified package from our RivaTuner Windows Download page. Open the application from the Windows System Tray.
2. Select Profile: In the left pane, click Global to apply settings system-wide, or click the + button at the bottom left to add a specific game executable (e.g., Cyberpunk2077.exe).
3. Set Framerate Limit: Locate the Framerate limit field in the right panel. Enter your target FPS. For example:
   • On a 144Hz G-Sync/FreeSync display: set to 141 FPS (3 FPS below monitor refresh rate to prevent V-Sync input lag spikes).
   • On a 240Hz display: set to 236 FPS.
   • On a 60Hz display: set to 60 FPS.
4. Framerate Limiter Type: Click Setup at the bottom right. Under the General tab, set the Framerate limiter mode to Async or Front Edge Sync depending on whether you prioritize ultra-low latency or absolute pacing smoothness.
5. Enable Start with Windows: Check Start with Windows at the top left so your pacing profile automatically loads on boot.

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