Ensuring stable power system performance is crucial for reliable grid operation. This study assesses various Load Frequency Control (LFC) strategies, including conventional PID, pole placement, Genetic Algorithm (GA)-optimized PID, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)-optimized PID, and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based controller, in single and interconnected power grids. The results reveal that GA- and PSO-optimized PID outperform conventional methods, offering minimal overshoot and fast settling times. Pole placement strikes a balance between response time and stability, while the ANN controller demonstrates adaptability and quick rise times but exhibits higher overshoot and longer settling times compared to the optimization techniques. Tie-line bias control aids in frequency stabilization but presents challenges with overshoot and prolonged settling times. Notably, PSO-optimized PID emerges as a promising solution, effectively mitigating overshoot and achieving rapid frequency recovery. This study underscores the importance of tailored control strategies for optimal LFC, which are essential for enhancing power system stability and efficiency. Future research should explore the potential of advanced techniques, such as deep learning and reinforcement learning, to further improve control performance.