Linux Kernel 7.3 scheduler tweaks increase FPS on devices with low-power hardware

The Linux community continues to make efforts to make the operating system a real alternative to gaming computers with Windows. Users who prefer a free operating system continue to receive improvements so that their computers are a true gaming machine without having to change their operating system. One of these new features introduced in the Linux kernel 7.3 is that it can now increase FPS on computers that have low-power hardware.

New scheduler in Linux 7.3: lower latency and support for asymmetric CPUs

This feature comes thanks to the new Linux kernel 7.3 schedulerwhere the documentation lets us see that it has now become more efficient. These changes include a improved latency, and support for asymmetric CPU architectures which include the high-performance, high-efficiency and ultra-low-power cores that Intel has offered for some generations.

Performance improvements on older hardware: up to 25% higher average FPS

These changes are most notable in lower power and older hardwarewhich can increase the average FPS of games for a smoother experience. Some tests have been carried out with a Intel Core i7-2600K with an AMD Radeon RX 580using Shadows: Awakening via GOG and Proton 10-34. These have achieved increased average FPS rate by 25% and average frame times were 50% better. It has also been achieved increase minimum FPS from 4 to 29which is up to 7.25 times more.

Potential impact on portable consoles such as Steam Deck and SteamOS systems

This could benefit older gaming deviceswith hardware designed for reduced consumption such as the Steam Deck. Let’s hope that these advantages will soon be added to the usual ones Gamer-oriented Linux distributions and portable devices, such as SteamOS.