PC optimization vs. network routing: what actually moves the needle
Two distinct bottlenecks shape how your games feel. Hone tunes the PC for higher FPS and steadier frametimes; ExitLag reroutes traffic to chase lower ping. This feature shows what each fixes, when to use them, and how to test, so you can decide in minutes.
Jump to the view that matches your goal
Your PC sets the ceiling (FPS, frametime). Your network sets the delay (ping, jitter, loss). Hone is PC‑first: it removes software drag and raises FPS across every game, including offline. ExitLag is network‑first: it can reduce ping by routing traffic differently when your ISP path is poor. Start with the foundation, then add routing only if ping is still the problem.
Pick a game to see results from a mid‑tier PC. Your numbers will vary.
*ExitLag helps most when your default route is poor. Test on the same server, around the same time of day.
A focused look at what each product changes and how that translates into feel during play.
Frame rate and frametime consistency decide smoothness and input feel. This is where PC optimization wins.
Online feel depends on ping, jitter, and packet loss. Routing tools can help, but only in the right conditions.
What each tool consumes while you play, and what keeps running.
A concise, side‑by‑side look at capabilities and trade‑offs.
A quick look at how each product achieves its outcomes.
Costs, free options, and what you get for each dollar.
Start with the universal fix (PC). Add the situational fix (routing) only if needed.
PC performance is the foundation of every game you play. Hone lifts FPS and steadies frametimes across the board, including offline titles. Use the free tier to measure gains on your own rig.
Consider ExitLag if, after PC tuning, your ping remains consistently high to the same region or server.
Start with Hone to raise your FPS baseline. If ping is still your limiter after PC tuning, add a routing layer and compare.
With better framerates and less input lag, you can also expect to enhance your skill-ceiling. Being good at competitive shooters involves much more than just mechanical skill. While mechanical skill can help you achieve that desired victory, the stats provided below showcase how improving your FPS and lower latency can help you in your goal towards utter dominance in a game.
By no means does this mean it's bound to increase your skills. But applying the above science to this correlation, we see a lot of evidence to support the claim that higher FPS and lower system latency lead to landing shots more frequently - boosting K/D ratios.
With better framerates and less input lag, you can also expect to enhance your skill-ceiling. Being good at competitive shooters involves much more than just mechanical skill. While mechanical skill can help you achieve that desired victory, the stats provided below showcase how improving your FPS and lower latency can help you in your goal towards utter dominance in a game.
By no means does this mean it's bound to increase your skills. But applying the above science to this correlation, we see a lot of evidence to support the claim that higher FPS and lower system latency lead to landing shots more frequently - boosting K/D ratios.
Yes. Hone handles FPS and system tuning, while ExitLag targets network paths. They don’t conflict. Most players start with Hone, then add ExitLag only if ping is still a problem.
No. ExitLag only affects network traffic. If you’re not connecting to online servers, it won’t improve performance. Hone is the tool that helps in both online and offline play.
No. Hone runs optimizations through one-click profiles and can restore changes at any time. You don’t need to tweak the Windows registry or dig through hidden settings manually.
Use the same game, server, and time of day. Run a ping test or play a few matches with ExitLag on and off. If you see a consistent drop in average ping or less jitter, it’s working for your route.
Hone provides you the tools to achieve ultimate gameplay, boost FPS by rescuing your PC from bloated software.