Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on PC, ray tracing is a visual-quality option with a performance cost that depends on your GPU, output resolution, scene, other graphics settings, and upscaling. There is no universally best RT preset: compare it against ray tracing off on your own system, at your intended resolution, and judge both image quality and frame pacing.
What ray tracing costs—and what the official requirements tell you
CD PROJEKT RED cautions that performance changes with the scene, system configuration, graphics settings, and output resolution. The publisher puts it plainly: “Higher resolution will significantly affect FPS.” Its published GPU tiers are useful capability reference points, not promises that a particular PC will reach a particular frame rate.
The official requirements list these ray-tracing reference configurations:
| Configuration | Listed GPU examples | Resolution and rendering assumptions |
|---|---|---|
| RT / Ultra reference | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070; AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT | 1440p using DLSS or FSR, with RTAO/RTGI |
| RT / Ultra reference | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080; AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT | 4K using DLSS or FSR, with all RT features enabled |
These are system-requirement tiers published by CD PROJEKT RED, not a buying list or guarantee of identical performance. The requirements page says RT minimum, RT recommended, and path-tracing performance targets use DLSS, FSR, or XeSS set to Auto. Path-tracing measurements also use frame generation. Its other listed configurations use native resolution. Those differing assumptions make it important to check the rendering mode behind any performance comparison.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The newer requirements page describes FPS targets based on the publisher’s QA tests, but its complete table values are not available in the accessible text. No specific FPS figure or percentage penalty should be inferred from the GPU tiers.
Choose settings around your resolution and performance target
Start with the output resolution you actually use and a frame rate you want to sustain. Resolution is a major part of the trade-off: a setup that feels acceptable at one output resolution may not maintain the same performance at a higher one. Compare the visual change in a scene you care about rather than assuming the RT label alone makes the difference worthwhile.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Prioritize a steady experience: If RT causes frame rate or frame pacing to fall below your target, consider reducing the resolution burden or using a supported upscaler before turning off every RT feature.
- Prioritize image quality: Keep RT enabled only if its result is noticeable to you at your chosen resolution and the performance remains comfortable during gameplay.
- Account for upscaling: Record whether the comparison uses native rendering or an upscaler, and which mode is selected. Upscaling changes the conditions, so results are not directly comparable if one run uses it and the other does not.
- Evaluate frame generation separately: It is part of the publisher’s stated path-tracing measurement assumptions, not a universal condition for every RT configuration.
How to compare ray tracing on and off fairly
- Set your target first. Choose your output resolution and the level of frame-rate stability you want during ordinary play.
- Establish a baseline. In a representative scene, note performance and image quality with RT off. Keep your resolution, other graphics settings, and upscaling mode fixed.
- Enable the RT features you intend to use. Compare the same scene under the same conditions. Change one setting at a time if you want to learn which adjustment affects the result on your PC.
- Check actual gameplay. A brief stationary view may not reflect performance across different scenes. Watch frame pacing as you move and play, not just a single FPS reading.
- Keep the settings that meet both tests. If the visual improvement is clear and performance stays within your target, keep RT. If not, try a supported upscaler or a lower resolution burden, then compare again.
This is a practical way to account for the performance variables CD PROJEKT RED identifies; it is not a publisher-tested benchmark procedure. Results depend on the PC and conditions being compared.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you turn ray tracing on?
Turn it on if you can maintain the performance you want and prefer the image in your own comparisons. Leave it off, or reduce the rendering burden, if the performance cost outweighs the visual change for you. Use the official GPU tiers as a rough capability reference, not as a substitute for testing your own system. For the publisher’s qualifications and current requirements, see CD PROJEKT RED Technical Support and its PC system requirements.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchQuick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
