Is it my device or my internet?
A game that stutters isn't always the connection. A busy processor, power saving or mobile data can look exactly like lag. This checks the device you're on.
Device check
Takes three seconds. Keep the game or call app open as usual so the check sees the device as it is when you play.
Device fine? Run Boost to check the connection end to end.
How it works
The check sets a short timer over and over for three seconds and measures how late each one fires. On a healthy device a timer fires within a few milliseconds; when the processor is busy or throttled, it fires 50 ms or more late, and games and calls stutter the same way. Where the browser offers them, it also reads the processor pressure, the battery level, Data Saver and whether you're on mobile data.
Reading your result
- This device is busy
- Timers fired 50 ms or more late, or the processor reports heavy load. Close other apps and browser tabs, let updates finish, and let a hot laptop cool down before you play.
- Low battery
- Below 20% most devices slow the processor and let Wi-Fi sleep between packets, which adds lag spikes. Plug in.
- Mobile data or Data Saver
- Mobile data adds lag and variation, and Data Saver delays background work and lowers video quality. Switch to Wi-Fi or a cable for games and calls.
- Device fine
- The lag isn't coming from this device. Check the connection next.
Questions
Can my computer cause lag instead of my internet?
Yes. A busy processor can't send and handle game packets on time, which looks exactly like network lag. If the device check is clean, run the Lag Check to test the connection.
Why does my game lag on battery?
Power saving slows the processor and lets Wi-Fi sleep between packets. Plug in, or set the power mode to best performance while you play.