What is GPU-ARTIFACTING?
This high-severity issue affects the graphics card (GPU). Random colored dots, stripes or triangles appear on the screen. Caused by VRAM error or overheating. Typical causes include GPU memory overclocking, faulty GPU and insufficient power supply. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.
Common Causes
- GPU or VRAM overheating
- GPU memory overclocking
- Faulty GPU
- Insufficient power supply
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Lower GPU OC to default
Most reports of GPU-ARTIFACTING clear up after Lower GPU OC to default, so it's worth trying before anything more involved.
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2
Check VRAM temps in GPU-Z
Should the issue continue afterward, the remaining steps are there to cover the less common gpu instability scenarios.
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3
Clean GPU cooling
Try "Clean GPU cooling" next if the issue persists — it addresses a secondary cause.
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4
Increase PCIe power
"Increase PCIe power" is worth trying when insufficient power supply turns out to be the culprit.
Commands & Diagnostics
No specific commands required for this error. Follow the step-by-step guide above.
Frequently Asked Questions
The leading cause of GPU-ARTIFACTING is GPU or VRAM overheating, though GPU memory overclocking, faulty GPU and insufficient power supply also show up in our reports.
"Lower GPU OC to default" clears up most GPU-ARTIFACTING reports by itself. The remaining steps above cover what's left.
GPU-ARTIFACTING is a high-severity error. It won't damage your PC instantly, but repeated occurrences usually point to a deeper problem worth addressing soon.
You shouldn't need to. Work through the guide above first — a reinstall is only worth considering if none of those steps help.
Yes — GPU or memory overclocking is one of the most frequent triggers for GPU-ARTIFACTING. Try resetting your GPU to stock clocks using MSI Afterburner or your OC software, then test for stability before investigating other causes.
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