CPU overheating is not uncommon, and there are a number of ways to prevent it. In this article we\u2019ll focus on one specific solution which is CPU undervolting. But what is undervolting? And is undervolting a CPU safe?<\/p>\n
Worry not, in this guide we\u2019ll explore how to undervolt a CPU, learn the CPU voltage essentials and address safety concerns.<\/p>\n
Understanding CPU Undervolting<\/h2>\n\r\n\tCPU undervolting<\/div>\r\n\tCPU undervolting means intentionally reducing the voltage supplied to a processor below its default settings.<\/p>\nThe voltage supplied to a CPU is a crucial factor in its performance, influencing both power consumption and heat generation.<\/p>\n
Undervolting is typically employed to achieve a balance between power efficiency and thermal management.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\n
So, what does undervolting a CPU do? Generally speaking, it allows you to lower your processor temperature during resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. It can also make your fans work a bit quieter and even slightly prolong your battery life. However, it comes with a price.<\/p>\n
\n\ud83d\udccc Also read: <\/b>What Is the Best Gaming Processor for PC in 2024?<\/a><\/p>\n
\nIn the later sections we\u2019ll cover the benefits and risks of CPU undervolting, but first let\u2019s learn how the voltage affects CPU performance.<\/p>\n
\r\n Download Auslogics ChillMate<\/div>\r\n Protect your CPU and other hardware from overheating, extend battery life, get your fans running quieter and help your laptop last longer with this smart tool.<\/div>\r\n \r\n Download for Free<\/a>\r\n Learn More<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n \r\n Privacy Policy<\/a> \r\n EULA<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\nBasics of CPU Voltage<\/h2>\n
CPU voltage refers to the electric potential provided to the processor for it to function. It comes from the power supply unit which converts electrical power from your wall outlet into the various voltages needed by different components in your computer, including the CPU.<\/p>\n
The motherboard then distributes the appropriate voltage to the CPU to ensure it operates correctly.<\/p>\n
Typically, CPUs can normally operate on voltages within 0,8-1,4V, but it depends on the model and manufacturer.<\/p>\n
CPU manufacturers don\u2019t straightforwardly provide their stock CPU voltage figures, however, the official representative of Intel indicates that the recommended core voltages for 13th generation Intel Core processors<\/a> are between 1.2 and 1.5V, while the maximum operating voltage is 1.72V.<\/p>\nAMD Ryzen 7000 Series processors appear to be more prone to high voltages and after several confirmed incidents with their CPUs burning out<\/a>, the situation forced MSI, ASUS, and some other motherboard vendors to restrict the voltage<\/a> on the CPU chipset to 1.3V, hard-locking the ability to increase it.<\/p>\nHow does the voltage affect CPU performance<\/h2>\n
Simply put, the higher the voltage, the better performance. But let\u2019s delve into details. Here are the main CPU parameters that are affected when changing the voltage:<\/p>\n
\n- Clock frequency and speed<\/b>: The voltage directly affects the clock frequency and speed of the CPU. In general, higher voltage allows the CPU to operate at higher clock speeds, leading to faster processing of operations.<\/li>\n
- Power consumption<\/b>: Increased voltage generally results in higher power consumption. The CPU requires more energy to operate at higher voltages, contributing to increased overall power usage.<\/li>\n
- Heat generation<\/b>: Higher voltage not only increases power consumption but also leads to greater heat generation. Managing it is crucial to prevent overheating<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Stability and reliability<\/b>: Both higher and lower voltages may result in instability, reduce the reliability of the CPU, and even hardware damage in extreme cases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Like in every other case, striking the right balance is key.<\/p>\n
Undervolting CPU<\/h2>\n
Undervolting a CPU means to lower the CPU voltage to levels that still allow for stable operation.<\/p>\n
\r\n\tNote<\/div>\r\n\tThe process involves finding the sweet spot between voltage, performance and heat generation. The idea is to keep the same performance level with lower power consumption and processor temperature.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nHowever, not all CPUs are equally responsive to undervolting. Here are a few things to consider before undervolting:<\/p>\n
\n- Consider the Thermal Design Power (TDP) of your CPU<\/strong>, which indicates the maximum amount of heat the cooling system is designed to handle. Undervolting can reduce heat, but it’s important to ensure that your cooling solution can still adequately manage the remaining thermal output.<\/li>\n
- Understand the voltage limits specified by the CPU manufacturer.<\/strong> Going below these limits may lead to instability or even damage to the CPU. It’s crucial to stay within the safe operating range defined by the manufacturer.<\/li>\n
- Different CPUs may respond differently to specific undervolting tools or methods.<\/strong> Research the tools we\u2019ve outlined below and choose the one that is best-suited for your CPU model.<\/li>\n
- Before undervolting, it’s advisable to back up your current BIOS settings.<\/strong> This allows you to revert to the original configuration if the undervolting attempts lead to instability or issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Ok, now we know what to consider, but what is undervolting doing behind the scenes?<\/p>\n
CPUs are composed of transistors that switch and amplify electronic signals, and changing voltage directly influences their behavior. Transistors have a threshold voltage below which they do not operate reliably. That said, CPU undervoltingcan impact the switching speed, reliability and stability of transistor operation, resulting in system freezes, stutters<\/a>, and crashes.<\/p>\n\r\n\tCPU transistors are small semiconductor components located within a central processing unit (CPU) that control electronic signals by amplifying and switching them on or off.<\/p>\nTheir performance depends on voltage alterations, requiring a specific threshold voltage for dependable operation. These transistors execute logic operations and regulate electrical flow, enabling computers to carry out computations and execute commands.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n
This brings us to the importance of taking a close look at potential risks associated with undervolting.<\/p>\n
\n\ud83d\udccc If you are a gamer, don’t miss our article about the most demanding PC games of 2024<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nRisks on Undervolting<\/h2>\n
While offering potential benefits, CPU undervolting comes with certain risks, in addition to those we have already discussed:<\/p>\n
\n- Data loss or corruption<\/b>: System instability caused by undervolting can potentially result in data loss or corruption. Unexpected crashes during critical operations may lead to incomplete file writes or other issues affecting data integrity.<\/li>\n
- Application and OS errors<\/b>: Undervolting can trigger errors within applications or the operating system. Some software may be sensitive to changes in CPU performance, and undervolting may lead to unpredictable behavior or malfunction.<\/li>\n
- Reduced performance<\/b>: Undervolting can lead to decreased CPU performance. Processes may slow down, impacting overall system responsiveness and speed.<\/li>\n
- Hardware damage<\/b>: Undervolting below the manufacturer-specified limits can potentially cause hardware damage. The CPU may become unreliable or malfunction if operated at voltages lower than those recommended by the manufacturer.<\/li>\n
- Voided warranties<\/b>: Undervolting may void warranties<\/a> provided by the CPU or computer manufacturer. Altering voltage settings, especially if it leads to hardware issues, could be grounds for warranty exclusion.<\/li>\n
- Compatibility issues<\/b>: Some applications or hardware components may not function correctly after undervolting. Compatibility issues may arise, particularly with software or devices that rely on specific CPU performance characteristics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n\tNote<\/div>\r\n\tWith all the risks in mind, before resorting to undervolting, you should investigate the reason for your CPU overheating and rule out ventilation issues, high ambient temperatures, and background processes overload<\/a>.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n
Now, assuming you ruled them out, weighed the risks and decided to go with undervolting, let\u2019s explore the ways to do it manually and by utilizing specialized software tools.<\/p>\n
Before anything else<\/strong><\/p>\nBefore anything else, you need to get benchmarking and monitoring tools ready. The first will heavily test your CPU, and the latter one will help you see your CPU performance figures, ensuring that undervolting only affects voltage and lowers temperature.<\/p>\n
Make sure to download HWiNFO<\/a> or any other similar hardware monitoring program and Cinebench<\/a> or any other benchmarking tool. Got them all in place? Here\u2019s what you do next:<\/p>\n\n- Run HWiNFO<\/em> and go to the Sensors<\/em> section.<\/li>\n
- Locate the Core Clocks<\/em> and Core Temperatures<\/em>\u00a0lines. These are the two main values to be monitored after undervolting. Remember your CPU manufacturer (Intel or AMD), you will need this later.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"HWINFO]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n- Run Cinebench<\/em> and keep the HWiNFO Sensors<\/em> window open to monitor changes during the benchmark.<\/li>\n
- Press Start<\/em> next to CPU (Multi Core)<\/em>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"HWINFO]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nThis action will start the benchmark test to test your CPU<\/a> at its peak utilization for performance and heating. It will take some time, so relax and let it do its job.<\/p>\nMemorize or write down the values of core clocks and core temperatures at their peak to compare them with those after undervolting a CPU to see if it helped. Ideally, the core clock numbers should remain the same, while core temperature figures should slightly decrease.<\/p>\n
\r\n\tNote<\/div>\r\n\t <\/i>If your system crashes during the benchmark after you\u2019ve changed the voltage settings, it means that your CPU doesn\u2019t get enough power to perform resource-intensive tasks.<\/p>\nIn this case, you need to revert the last change you\u2019ve made by increasing the voltage to the levels where everything worked fine.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n
Undervolting a CPU manually<\/h2>\n
Undervolting is no easy task, so get ready to put some effort into it, especially if you\u2019re set to do it manually in BIOS<\/a>. You will have to decrease the voltage by small decrements, testing your system performance after each. That said, undervolting a CPU in your BIOS interface gives you more control than in some apps, but requires a more thorough approach.<\/p>\nNow that you\u2019ve run the test and know your processor performance and temperature figures, let\u2019s see how to undervolt a CPU in BIOS.<\/p>\n
Undervolting an Intel CPU in Bios<\/h3>\n
The steps below are relevant for MSI motherboard owners, so details may slightly differ, but the idea is the same for all manufacturers. Here\u2019s how to undervolt your Intel CPU in BIOS:<\/p>\n
\n- Restart your PC or laptop and access BIOS<\/em> using
F2, F10<\/code>, or Delete<\/code> keys.<\/li>\n- Switch to Advanced Mode<\/em> and go to the OC section<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Locate CPU voltage<\/em> or CPU Vcore settings<\/em>. It may be different depending on the motherboard brand.<\/li>\n
- When you find it, start with small decrements of 0.020V-0.030V (or 20-30mV).<\/li>\n
- Boot into Windows and run the benchmark again to test stability, following the steps outlined above.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t forget to record the sensor readings in HWiNFO<\/em> to verify the reduction in power usage and temperature.<\/li>\n
- Keep reducing voltage gradually until you achieve your temperature and power consumption goals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Undervolting an AMD CPU in BIOS<\/h3>\n
If your CPU manufacturer is AMD, there\u2019s a convenient tool that allows for easier undervolting manually. We\u2019ll show you how it\u2019s done with a Gigabyte motherboard, so the steps might differ from one manufacturer to another, but the idea is the same. Here\u2019s how to undervolt your AMD CPU in BIOS:<\/p>\n
\n- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS\/UEFI<\/em> settings by pressing the relevant key during startup (typically
Del, F2, or F10<\/code>).<\/li>\n- Switch to Advanced Mode<\/em> and go to the Tweaker<\/em> section.<\/li>\n
- Ensure all settings are reverted to default, especially if you had previously overclocked your CPU<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Locate the Precision Boost Overdrive<\/em> settings. Set it to Advanced<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Next, find PBO Limits<\/em>\u00a0and set it to Disable<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Look for the Curve Optimizer<\/em>\u00a0option in the BIOS menu.<\/li>\n
- Set Curve Optimizer<\/em> to All Cores<\/em>. This ensures that the undervolting adjustments are implemented for all CPU cores.<\/li>\n
- Set the All Core Curve Optimizer Sign<\/em> option to Negative<\/em>. This instructs the CPU to reduce voltage.<\/li>\n
- In the All Core Curve Optimizer Magnitude<\/em>\u00a0setting you can set an offset of 10 and gradually increase it based on your preferences or system stability, up to a maximum of 30.<\/li>\n
- Save changes and exit BIOS<\/em>. Boot into Windows and perform the benchmark to test stability.<\/li>\n
- Again, don\u2019t forget to record the sensor readings in HWiNFO<\/em> to verify the reduction in power usage and temperature.<\/li>\n
- Keep adjusting the All Core Curve Optimizer Magnitude<\/em>\u00a0until getting optimal results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"All]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Image: maketecheasier.com<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nAll in all, manual CPU undervolting is a long iterative process, since fine-tuning settings, running stability tests, and monitoring the system’s behavior until you find the sweet spot between efficiency and performance takes time and effort. Now, let\u2019s explore specialized software for undervolting, which makes the process a bit easier.<\/p>\n
\r\n Download Auslogics ChillMate<\/div>\r\n Protect your CPU and other hardware from overheating, extend battery life, get your fans running quieter and help your laptop last longer with this smart tool.<\/div>\r\n \r\n Download for Free<\/a>\r\n Learn More<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n \r\n Privacy Policy<\/a> \r\n EULA<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\nUndervolting a CPU with software tools<\/h2>\n
We\u2019ve learned by now that manual undervolting requires deep computer knowledge and advanced skills, and can be exhausting. Luckily, there are a number of software tools that simplify overclocking and undervolting. In this section we\u2019ll look at CPU manufacturers\u2019 programs, as well as a third-party solution.<\/p>\n
Undervolting a CPU with Intel XTU<\/h3>\n
If you have an Intel processor, you can use Intel Extreme Tuning Utility<\/a> (Intel XTU) designed specifically for tweaking hardware settings, including voltage. However, this option is only available to the owners of K- and X-series processors. Otherwise, the tuning options may be grayed out.<\/p>\nHere\u2019s how to undervolt your CPU with Intel XTU:<\/p>\n
\n- Download and install the utility.<\/li>\n
- Launch Intel XTU<\/em> and go to the Advanced Tuning<\/em>\u00a0tab.<\/li>\n
- Run the built-in benchmark test to learn your CPU peak clock frequency and temperature values. You can see them in the lower part of the window under Processor Core Frequency<\/em> and Package Temperature<\/em>\u00a0respectively.<\/li>\n
- In Advanced Tuning<\/em>, click Core<\/em>, then find Core Voltage Offset<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Start with small adjustments (e.g., -0.020V or 20mV).<\/li>\n
- Run the benchmark again to test stability and record the values.<\/li>\n
- Keep adjusting in small increments and testing your system after each change you make, until you find the optimal temperature-performance balance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"optimal]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nWith its user-friendly interface, Intel XTU appears to be a decent solution for CPU undervolting. However, it doesn\u2019t suit those who own locked Intel CPUs or AMD processors. Now, let\u2019s see how AMD processors owners can undervolt their CPUs.<\/p>\n
Undervolting a CPU with AMD Ryzen Master<\/h3>\n
If you have an AMD processor, you can use AMD Ryzen Master<\/a> to overclock and undervolt your CPU. Just like with BIOS, there is the same handy \u201cCurve Optimizer\u201d tool that allows for easy voltage offset. However, this feature is only available for Ryzen 5000 series or newer.<\/p>\nAs usual, don\u2019t forget to run the benchmark test beforehand and record your CPU peak clock speed and temperature values during the process.<\/p>\n
Now, here\u2019s how you can undervolt an AMD CPU in Ryzen Master:<\/p>\n
\n- Download and install the utility.<\/li>\n
- Launch AMD Ryzen Master<\/em> and go to the Curve Optimizer<\/em>\u00a0tab.<\/li>\n
- Set Curve Optimizer Mode<\/em> to All Cores<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- There, you can opt for an automatic curve optimization by pressing Start Optimizing<\/em>\u00a0or change the core value manually.<\/li>\n
- You can change an offset by 10 and gradually increase it up to a maximum of 30. Don\u2019t forget to run the benchmark after each change you apply to test your system stability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"Undervolting]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Images: maketecheasier.com<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nAlthough this works only for Ryzen 5000+ series CPUs, the owners of older models of AMD processors shouldn\u2019t get upset. There\u2019s a straightforward way to lower the voltage for a CPU as well. Ryzen Master also allows for direct undervolting. Here\u2019s what you should do:<\/p>\n
\n- Run the benchmark and record your CPU peak clock speed and temperature values.<\/li>\n
- Launch AMD Ryzen Master<\/em> and switch Control Mode<\/em> to Manual<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Locate the CPU Voltage (Volt)<\/em> section.<\/li>\n
- Adjust the voltage. Start with small adjustments (e.g., -0.020V or 20mV).<\/li>\n
- Run the benchmark again to test stability and performance.<\/li>\n
- Keep adjusting the voltage until you reach your desired results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"CPU]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Image: amd.com<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nNow that you know how to undervolt a CPU with software from the processors\u2019 manufacturers, let\u2019s take a look at one more way to do it with the help of a third-party app.<\/p>\n
Undervolting a CPU with ThrottleStop<\/h3>\n
ThrottleStop is a small app designed for monitoring and adjusting voltage and clock speeds. The program is mainly aimed at Intel processors, so it\u2019s a viable solution for those with locked Intel CPUs. However, it may also work with AMD processors. Here\u2019s how you can undervolt your CPU using this app:<\/p>\n
\n- Download<\/a>, unzip and run ThrottleStop<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Run the benchmark and record your CPU peak clock speed and temperature values.<\/li>\n
- On the app launch screen, enable Speed Shift EPP<\/em>. This allows Intel processors to optimize voltage and clock frequency based on workload.<\/li>\n
- Click on FIVR<\/em>\u00a0from the bottom right buttons.<\/li>\n
- In FIVR Control<\/em>, choose CPU Core<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Check Unlock Adjustable Voltage<\/em> and select the Adaptive<\/em>\u00a0radio button under it.<\/li>\n
- Drag the slider under Offset Voltage<\/em>\u00a0left to decrease the maximum voltage. As usual, start with the lowest possible adjustments.<\/li>\n
- After you\u2019ve made your changes, choose OK \u2013 Save voltages immediately<\/em>\u00a0in the bottom right corner.<\/li>\n
- Click Apply<\/em>, and then OK<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Run the benchmark to check stability.<\/li>\n
- If no crashes occur, you can repeat the process incrementally.<\/li>\n
- When you find the optimal balance, repeat the same steps for CPU Cache<\/em> and Intel GPU<\/em>.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t forget to check your system stability after each adjustment in the process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\r\n \r\n
![\"Tech]()
\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\nAs you can see, ThrottleStop is rather easy to use, however, it\u2019s still important to understand the risks of altering voltage and tread carefully.<\/p>\n
Summary<\/h2>\n
Summarizing what\u2019s been said above, let\u2019s point out the pros and cons of CPU undervolting.<\/p>\n
\r\n\r\nPros:<\/div>\r\n\r\n \t- Undervolting can lower CPU temperatures, reducing heat generation.<\/li>\n
- Decreasing voltage leads to reduced power consumption, potentially extending battery life in laptops.<\/li>\n
- Cooler CPUs may result in quieter fan operation, especially in systems with active cooling.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\nCons:<\/div>\r\n
\r\n\t- Undervolting can cause system instability, leading to crashes and freezes.<\/li>\n
- Unstable undervolting may result in data loss or corruption during unexpected system failures.<\/li>\n
- Undervolting can lead to decreased CPU performance, impacting overall system speed.<\/li>\n
- Undervolting may void warranties, especially if it causes hardware issues.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n
While undervolting can be a solution to fight overheating, it’s not a full remedy. You should carefully weigh the benefits and risks before resorting to undervolting and consider turning to other solutions first, as there are less extreme ways to prevent your PC or laptop from overheating<\/a>.<\/p>\nShould you decide to go with it, make sure to test stability thoroughly and stay within manufacturer-recommended voltage limits.<\/p>\n
\r\n Download Auslogics ChillMate<\/div>\r\n Protect your CPU and other hardware from overheating, extend battery life, get your fans running quieter and help your laptop last longer with this smart tool.<\/div>\r\n \r\n Download for Free<\/a>\r\n Learn More<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n \r\n Privacy Policy<\/a> \r\n EULA<\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\nConclusion<\/h2>\n
In this article we provided a comprehensive guide on undervolting, answering the question, \u201cWhat is undervolting a CPU?\u201d and reviewing ways to perform it. We\u2019ve touched the security concerns and learned the basics of CPU voltage, so you can see a bigger picture behind the process.<\/p>\n
Once again, we\u2019d like to emphasize that it\u2019s only advisable to resort to CPU undervolting in case you have already ruled out all possible reasons for overheating, tried other cooling solutions and nothing helped. You need to clearly understand the risks of undervolting, as changing the CPU voltage can crash your computer and void the CPU and computer warranty.<\/p>\n
FAQ<\/h2>\n\r\n\t\r\n\t
The voltage supplied to a CPU is a crucial factor in its performance, influencing both power consumption and heat generation.<\/p>\n
Undervolting is typically employed to achieve a balance between power efficiency and thermal management.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\n
So, what does undervolting a CPU do? Generally speaking, it allows you to lower your processor temperature during resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. It can also make your fans work a bit quieter and even slightly prolong your battery life. However, it comes with a price.<\/p>\n
\n
\ud83d\udccc Also read: <\/b>What Is the Best Gaming Processor for PC in 2024?<\/a><\/p>\n In the later sections we\u2019ll cover the benefits and risks of CPU undervolting, but first let\u2019s learn how the voltage affects CPU performance.<\/p>\n CPU voltage refers to the electric potential provided to the processor for it to function. It comes from the power supply unit which converts electrical power from your wall outlet into the various voltages needed by different components in your computer, including the CPU.<\/p>\n The motherboard then distributes the appropriate voltage to the CPU to ensure it operates correctly.<\/p>\n Typically, CPUs can normally operate on voltages within 0,8-1,4V, but it depends on the model and manufacturer.<\/p>\n CPU manufacturers don\u2019t straightforwardly provide their stock CPU voltage figures, however, the official representative of Intel indicates that the recommended core voltages for 13th generation Intel Core processors<\/a> are between 1.2 and 1.5V, while the maximum operating voltage is 1.72V.<\/p>\n AMD Ryzen 7000 Series processors appear to be more prone to high voltages and after several confirmed incidents with their CPUs burning out<\/a>, the situation forced MSI, ASUS, and some other motherboard vendors to restrict the voltage<\/a> on the CPU chipset to 1.3V, hard-locking the ability to increase it.<\/p>\n Simply put, the higher the voltage, the better performance. But let\u2019s delve into details. Here are the main CPU parameters that are affected when changing the voltage:<\/p>\n Like in every other case, striking the right balance is key.<\/p>\n Undervolting a CPU means to lower the CPU voltage to levels that still allow for stable operation.<\/p>\n However, not all CPUs are equally responsive to undervolting. Here are a few things to consider before undervolting:<\/p>\n Ok, now we know what to consider, but what is undervolting doing behind the scenes?<\/p>\n CPUs are composed of transistors that switch and amplify electronic signals, and changing voltage directly influences their behavior. Transistors have a threshold voltage below which they do not operate reliably. That said, CPU undervoltingcan impact the switching speed, reliability and stability of transistor operation, resulting in system freezes, stutters<\/a>, and crashes.<\/p>\n Their performance depends on voltage alterations, requiring a specific threshold voltage for dependable operation. These transistors execute logic operations and regulate electrical flow, enabling computers to carry out computations and execute commands.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n This brings us to the importance of taking a close look at potential risks associated with undervolting.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udccc If you are a gamer, don’t miss our article about the most demanding PC games of 2024<\/a>.<\/p>\n While offering potential benefits, CPU undervolting comes with certain risks, in addition to those we have already discussed:<\/p>\n Now, assuming you ruled them out, weighed the risks and decided to go with undervolting, let\u2019s explore the ways to do it manually and by utilizing specialized software tools.<\/p>\n Before anything else<\/strong><\/p>\n Before anything else, you need to get benchmarking and monitoring tools ready. The first will heavily test your CPU, and the latter one will help you see your CPU performance figures, ensuring that undervolting only affects voltage and lowers temperature.<\/p>\n Make sure to download HWiNFO<\/a> or any other similar hardware monitoring program and Cinebench<\/a> or any other benchmarking tool. Got them all in place? Here\u2019s what you do next:<\/p>\n This action will start the benchmark test to test your CPU<\/a> at its peak utilization for performance and heating. It will take some time, so relax and let it do its job.<\/p>\n Memorize or write down the values of core clocks and core temperatures at their peak to compare them with those after undervolting a CPU to see if it helped. Ideally, the core clock numbers should remain the same, while core temperature figures should slightly decrease.<\/p>\n In this case, you need to revert the last change you\u2019ve made by increasing the voltage to the levels where everything worked fine.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n Undervolting is no easy task, so get ready to put some effort into it, especially if you\u2019re set to do it manually in BIOS<\/a>. You will have to decrease the voltage by small decrements, testing your system performance after each. That said, undervolting a CPU in your BIOS interface gives you more control than in some apps, but requires a more thorough approach.<\/p>\n Now that you\u2019ve run the test and know your processor performance and temperature figures, let\u2019s see how to undervolt a CPU in BIOS.<\/p>\n The steps below are relevant for MSI motherboard owners, so details may slightly differ, but the idea is the same for all manufacturers. Here\u2019s how to undervolt your Intel CPU in BIOS:<\/p>\n If your CPU manufacturer is AMD, there\u2019s a convenient tool that allows for easier undervolting manually. We\u2019ll show you how it\u2019s done with a Gigabyte motherboard, so the steps might differ from one manufacturer to another, but the idea is the same. Here\u2019s how to undervolt your AMD CPU in BIOS:<\/p>\n All in all, manual CPU undervolting is a long iterative process, since fine-tuning settings, running stability tests, and monitoring the system’s behavior until you find the sweet spot between efficiency and performance takes time and effort. Now, let\u2019s explore specialized software for undervolting, which makes the process a bit easier.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve learned by now that manual undervolting requires deep computer knowledge and advanced skills, and can be exhausting. Luckily, there are a number of software tools that simplify overclocking and undervolting. In this section we\u2019ll look at CPU manufacturers\u2019 programs, as well as a third-party solution.<\/p>\n If you have an Intel processor, you can use Intel Extreme Tuning Utility<\/a> (Intel XTU) designed specifically for tweaking hardware settings, including voltage. However, this option is only available to the owners of K- and X-series processors. Otherwise, the tuning options may be grayed out.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how to undervolt your CPU with Intel XTU:<\/p>\n With its user-friendly interface, Intel XTU appears to be a decent solution for CPU undervolting. However, it doesn\u2019t suit those who own locked Intel CPUs or AMD processors. Now, let\u2019s see how AMD processors owners can undervolt their CPUs.<\/p>\n If you have an AMD processor, you can use AMD Ryzen Master<\/a> to overclock and undervolt your CPU. Just like with BIOS, there is the same handy \u201cCurve Optimizer\u201d tool that allows for easy voltage offset. However, this feature is only available for Ryzen 5000 series or newer.<\/p>\n As usual, don\u2019t forget to run the benchmark test beforehand and record your CPU peak clock speed and temperature values during the process.<\/p>\n Now, here\u2019s how you can undervolt an AMD CPU in Ryzen Master:<\/p>\n Although this works only for Ryzen 5000+ series CPUs, the owners of older models of AMD processors shouldn\u2019t get upset. There\u2019s a straightforward way to lower the voltage for a CPU as well. Ryzen Master also allows for direct undervolting. Here\u2019s what you should do:<\/p>\n Now that you know how to undervolt a CPU with software from the processors\u2019 manufacturers, let\u2019s take a look at one more way to do it with the help of a third-party app.<\/p>\n ThrottleStop is a small app designed for monitoring and adjusting voltage and clock speeds. The program is mainly aimed at Intel processors, so it\u2019s a viable solution for those with locked Intel CPUs. However, it may also work with AMD processors. Here\u2019s how you can undervolt your CPU using this app:<\/p>\n As you can see, ThrottleStop is rather easy to use, however, it\u2019s still important to understand the risks of altering voltage and tread carefully.<\/p>\n Summarizing what\u2019s been said above, let\u2019s point out the pros and cons of CPU undervolting.<\/p>\n While undervolting can be a solution to fight overheating, it’s not a full remedy. You should carefully weigh the benefits and risks before resorting to undervolting and consider turning to other solutions first, as there are less extreme ways to prevent your PC or laptop from overheating<\/a>.<\/p>\n Should you decide to go with it, make sure to test stability thoroughly and stay within manufacturer-recommended voltage limits.<\/p>\n In this article we provided a comprehensive guide on undervolting, answering the question, \u201cWhat is undervolting a CPU?\u201d and reviewing ways to perform it. We\u2019ve touched the security concerns and learned the basics of CPU voltage, so you can see a bigger picture behind the process.<\/p>\n Once again, we\u2019d like to emphasize that it\u2019s only advisable to resort to CPU undervolting in case you have already ruled out all possible reasons for overheating, tried other cooling solutions and nothing helped. You need to clearly understand the risks of undervolting, as changing the CPU voltage can crash your computer and void the CPU and computer warranty.<\/p>\n
\nBasics of CPU Voltage<\/h2>\n
How does the voltage affect CPU performance<\/h2>\n
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Undervolting CPU<\/h2>\n
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\nRisks on Undervolting<\/h2>\n
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![\"HWINFO](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-1-1.png\")
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![\"HWINFO](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-2-1.png\")
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Undervolting a CPU manually<\/h2>\n
Undervolting an Intel CPU in Bios<\/h3>\n
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F2, F10<\/code>, or Delete<\/code> keys.<\/li>\nUndervolting an AMD CPU in BIOS<\/h3>\n
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Del, F2, or F10<\/code>).<\/li>\n![\"All](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-3-1.png\")
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Undervolting a CPU with software tools<\/h2>\n
Undervolting a CPU with Intel XTU<\/h3>\n
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![\"optimal](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-4-1.png\")
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Undervolting a CPU with AMD Ryzen Master<\/h3>\n
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![\"Undervolting](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-5-1.png\")
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![\"CPU](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-6-1.png\")
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Undervolting a CPU with ThrottleStop<\/h3>\n
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![\"Tech](\"https:\/\/www.auslogics.com\/en\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Undervolting-7-1.png\")
\r\n <\/div>\r\n Summary<\/h2>\n
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Conclusion<\/h2>\n
FAQ<\/h2>\n