Grand Theft Auto V continues to captivate players nearly a decade after its PC release. With constant updates to GTA Online and the recent Enhanced Edition upgrade, the system requirements have evolved significantly. Let’s break down what you need to run GTA 5 on PC in 2025, covering both the Legacy and Enhanced versions.
Legacy Edition Requirements
If you’re looking to dive into the original GTA 5 experience, here’s what your PC needs:
Minimum Specs
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 @ 2.40GHz or AMD Phenom 9850 @ 2.5GHz
- RAM: 4GB
- GPU: NVIDIA 9800 GT 1GB or AMD HD 4870 1GB
- Storage: 90GB HDD space
- DirectX: Version 10
These specs will get the game running, but expect to play at lower settings and resolutions.
Recommended Specs
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core i5-3470 @ 3.2GHz or AMD FX-8350 @ 4GHz
- RAM: 8GB
- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 660 2GB or AMD HD7870 2GB
- Storage: 90GB HDD space
- DirectX: Version 10
With these specs, you’ll enjoy a smoother experience at higher settings and resolutions.
Enhanced Edition Requirements
The Enhanced Edition brings significant visual and performance upgrades, but demands more from your hardware:
Minimum Specs
- OS: Windows 10 (build 1909 or later)
- CPU: Intel Core i7-4770 or AMD FX-9590
- RAM: 8GB
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1630 4GB or AMD Radeon RX 6400 4GB
- Storage: 105GB SSD
- DirectX: Version 12
These specs allow you to run the Enhanced Edition, but you may need to compromise on some visual features.
Recommended Specs
- OS: Windows 11
- CPU: Intel Core i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
- RAM: 16GB (dual-channel configuration)
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8GB or AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT 8GB
- Storage: 105GB NVMe SSD (DirectStorage compatible)
- Audio: Windows Spatial Sound-compatible system with Dolby Atmos support
With these specs, you’ll experience GTA 5 Enhanced Edition in all its glory, including ray tracing and high frame rates.
Key Differences and Upgrades
The Enhanced Edition brings several technical improvements:
- Ray Tracing: Adds realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows
- DLSS and FSR Support: Improves performance without sacrificing visual quality
- DirectStorage: Reduces loading times and improves asset streaming
- Higher Framerates: Supports smoother gameplay at higher refresh rates
- Expanded Draw Distances: Allows you to see further across Los Santos
Tips for Optimal Performance
- Use an SSD: This significantly reduces loading times, especially for the Enhanced Edition.
- Update Your Drivers: Ensure your GPU drivers are current for the best compatibility and performance.
- Close Background Apps: GTA 5 can be resource-intensive, so close unnecessary programs.
- Adjust In-Game Settings: Experiment with graphics options to find the right balance between visuals and performance.
- Consider Overclocking: If you’re comfortable, mild overclocking can boost performance on older hardware.
Compatibility Notes
- The Enhanced Edition requires a DirectX 12 compatible GPU.
- Legacy GPUs (pre-GTX 900 series for NVIDIA or pre-RX 400 series for AMD) are not supported in the Enhanced Edition.
- Windows 7 and 8.1 are no longer officially supported for either version.
Whether you’re revisiting Los Santos or experiencing it for the first time, ensuring your PC meets these requirements will help you get the most out of GTA 5. The game’s longevity is a testament to its quality, and with the Enhanced Edition, it continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in open-world gaming.