Slow performance when plugged in.

[ardest17]

Hello! I recently have this issue in my laptop that when I plug my power adapter, the performance becomes relatively slow, particularly when playing games. When it battery, the fps reaches up to 120-130 when playing RDR. But when I plug in my adapter, fps drops down around 10-15. I also notice slow browsing speed when plugged in. I already reset the settings in my graphics. Turned the settings to best performance when plugged in but still, the same slow performance. I'm guessing it's the adapter but hopefully, someone can give me an answer. Thank you and best regards!

[Max3Aj]

@ardest17, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
The issue you're describing, performance drop when the laptop is plugged in is unusual, as laptops typically perform better when connected to power. Let's walk through a few steps to diagnose and resolve this:

Check Windows Power Plan Settings

Sometimes, the system may be using a power-saving plan even when plugged in.

1. Press Windows + X → select Power Options.
2. Click Additional power settings (on the right).
3. Ensure High Performance or Best Performance is selected.
4. Click Change plan settings → Change advanced power settings.
5. Expand Processor power management:
   • Set Minimum processor state and Maximum processor state to 100% for Plugged in.

Check the Power Adapter

A faulty or underpowered adapter can cause throttling.

• Verify wattage: Check if your adapter matches the recommended wattage for your laptop (usually printed on the bottom of the laptop or in the manual).
• Try another adapter: If available, test with a compatible HP adapter to see if performance improves.

Check Graphics Settings

You mentioned resetting graphics settings, let’s double-check:

For NVIDIA:

1. Open NVIDIA Control Panel → Manage 3D Settings.
2. Under Global Settings, set Power management mode to Prefer maximum performance.
3. Under Program Settings, add your game (e.g., RDR) and apply the same setting.

For AMD:

1. Open AMD Radeon Settings → Power → PowerPlay.
2. Set Plugged in to Maximum Performance.

Check for Thermal Throttling

When plugged in, the system may generate more heat, causing throttling.

• Use HWMonitor or CoreTemp to check CPU/GPU temperatures.
• Clean vents and fans if temperatures are high.
• Consider using a cooling pad.

Update BIOS and Drivers

Outdated firmware can cause power management issues.

• Visit HP Support and enter your laptop model.
• Download and install the latest:
  • BIOS
  • Chipset drivers
  • Graphics drivers

Run HP Hardware Diagnostics

To rule out hardware issues:

1. Turn off your laptop.
2. Press Esc repeatedly during startup → choose F2 for diagnostics.
3. Run System Tests and Battery Test.

Final Tip

If none of the above resolves the issue, try booting into Safe Mode with Networking while plugged in and test performance. If it improves, a background app or driver may be causing the slowdown.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support