Next-Gen Graphics on a Low-Spec Computer

[SuperPlatypus64]

After searching around online, I couldn't find a comprehensive guide/discussion on how to heavily mod Skyrim, improve graphics, and still maintain playable FPS and load times, so hopefully you guys will have some advice. Here are my specs:

 

OS: Windows 8.1 (via Bootcamp)

Processor: 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5

Video Card: Intel HD Graphics 4000 1024 MB

Memory: 8 GB 1600 MHz DDR3

Storage: 1.5 TB Partition of Seagate Portable External Drive USB 3.0

 

(For those familiar, these are not actually PC specs, they're Mac specs. I run Windows 8.1 through Bootcamp on my MacPro Retina, which doesn't affect performance, but means I cannot upgrade my computer, hence the external drive.)

 

I do have over a hundred mods, mostly immersion stuff (Frostfall, Hunterborne, RND, etc.) and skeleton/physics stuff, with very few graphical mods (only Skyrim Flora Overhaul and Grass on Steroids). What's the best ENB to use, if any, or are there other mods to boost graphics without sacrificing too much performance? Any mods that boost allocated memory/improve stability without having to use an ENB? Are there any mods that boost performance in general (as in they raise FPS enough to counter drops due to mods)? What can I do in Windows 8.1 to boost performance (aside from upgrading my computer)? Is there anything else related to performance/stability I'm missing here?

 

As far as improving graphics goes, what's the difference between ENB, SweetFX, and FXAA? Any recommendations for a lower-end computer? (I assume my computer is low or mid-end, compared with "Next-Gen" PC's, but correct me if I'm wrong). Any other mods to improve graphics, plant/tree/grass density, lighting, water, etc. without sacrificing too much performance?

 

Just to cover all bases here, I use Mod Organizer, not NMM, and have never attempted to use/understand Wyre Bash, if any of that is important. Any advice/help/information/answers to any of the above questions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[Anikma]

With an integrated video card it is unlikely that your computer would be able to handle many graphical mods or enb's. Maybe you could put on a basic env with around 20-25 fps but personally I would sacrifice graphical quality to keep my fps reasonable.

[Novem99]

  On 12/27/2014 at 3:25 AM, SuperPlatypus64 said:

After searching around online, I couldn't find a comprehensive guide/discussion on how to heavily mod Skyrim, improve graphics, and still maintain playable FPS and load times

 

You couldn't find that guide because it doesn't exist. Heavily modded and low end Pc is a contradiction. With that setup of yours you shouldn't even think about an ENB.

 

ENBoost will give you stability in terms of less CTDs but it won't raise your fps so you could use more mods.

 

"Next-gen graphics on a low-spec PC" - find the error!

Edited December 27, 2014 by Novem99

[avallanche]

In my experience shadows are a much bigger problem to fps than the texture itself.

I manage to keep 180+ mods and many hd textures while still keeping 60fps only by tweaking the shadows options. The shadows in my game are ugly as hell, but the game runs perfectly stable at constant 60 fps with all the mods I wanted... more than enough if you ask me.

Also, there are some really good texture fixers/replacers that improved vanilla texture without sacrificing fps by adjusting compressed file size and stuff... you cant expect an ENB quality but its still an improvement. So maybe you should do it in parts, focusing on what you consider more important, what bothers you more instead of trying and enb that will kill your performance.

[SuperPlatypus64]

  On 12/27/2014 at 12:17 PM, avallanche said:

Also, there are some really good texture fixers/replacers that improved vanilla texture without sacrificing fps by adjusting compressed file size and stuff... you cant expect an ENB quality but its still an improvement. So maybe you should do it in parts, focusing on what you consider more important, what bothers you more instead of trying and enb that will kill your performance.

What would you recommend specifically? Or should I just boost quality to specific things in the game settings? Also, does ENBoost work without an ENB? I tried it, but it seemed to make little difference with the number of CTD's I was getting (my main issue, otherwise my game has a playable FPS).

[avallanche]

I meant focus on what you can actually see... in what bothers you... no point making a tree bark 4k HD if you barely look at it... save it for armors, weapons and other stuffs... with low specs we need to make choices. xD

The Unofficial High Resolution Patch on its own already adjust a lot of things, but there is a few good mods that may help you out a little more... Bethesda Performance Textures, Enhanced Distant Terrain, Grass on Steroids, Skyrim Performance PLUS, Optimizer Textures. There are many... i would need to check.
And yes, the ENBoost works without the ENB. Try SSME - Skyrim Startup Memory Editor and Memory Blocks Log and check if its working... spawn a few npcs and take a look if your limit actually increased. It will increase your memory cap but the limit still exist. Check if the CTD is really memory related.