For decades, CPU overclocking has only been done by computer enthusiasts. But then the overclocking procedure became clearer and more accessible to ordinary users.
Even a sharp increase in performance has changed little in recent years: there are only more people who want to squeeze every last drop out of the CPU.
Along with advanced technologies for personal computers, new tools for safe overclocking have become available to users. Moreover, modern processors are able, in a sense, to accelerate independently, depending on the task being performed. In this article, we will tell you what overclocking is, what difficulties are associated with it, and when the result is worth the effort.
What is overclocking?
The term overclocking (or overclocking) refers to changing the clock frequency of the processor above the limit set by the manufacturer. Clock speed (measured in hertz) is the number of operations that the processor can perform in one second. For example, a 4 GHz processor is capable of 4 billion operations per second.
In fact, the clock frequency does not show the exact number of operations, it only gives an idea of their relative number: under equal conditions, a processor with a clock frequency of 4 GHz is capable of performing more operations than, for example, a processor at 3.5 GHz. However, due to features such as architecture, age and production nuances, this value is not always true.
Overclocking is required to achieve higher clock speeds, which in turn increases the number of operations per second.
Normally, the CPU, that is, the computer's central processing unit, is overclocked. The same procedure lends itself to a discrete video card. Then the result is accelerated processing of graphic information. There is no single rule as to how much you can speed up the processor. In each case, overclocking gives individual results, so deciding whether it is necessary can sometimes be difficult.
So is it worth overclocking the processor? Yes and no.
Does your computer need overclocking?
Overclocking a processor can be time-consuming and costly, especially if you are not experienced with computer components. In addition to changing the multiplier, you may need to adjust voltage, fan speed, and other subtle but important adjustments.
So, let's answer the main question: is it necessary to overclock your computer?
As always, the answer strongly depends on the circumstances. A serious reason for overclocking is geiming. Depending on the game, it can strongly affect the performance of the system.
In games, the central processor is engaged in most part processing of operations related to artificial intelligence and NPC actions. Examples of such applications are Civilization VI and Hitman type sandbox simulators. Of course, the processor activity listed is not limited. Spare kernels are often used when drawing textures and explosions, and in some games even the task of processing sound also falls on the CPU. Such a division of labor between the nuclei is becoming more common, especially as the kernels are becoming more and more in consumer processors.
In games with intensive activation of the processor, for example, HitMan 3, acceleration usually gives a large difference in performance, although not always. The best change will be visible under reduced resolution, when the load on the graphics adapter is not too large. As the resolution of the video card increases, it becomes stronger and the increase in performance becomes not so obvious. Similarly, games that require multi-core processor, for example, Cyberpunk 2077, after overclocking demonstrate not too obvious improvements.
In addition to games, overclocking can increase PC performance in applications for 3D modeling, video rendering and images. In essence, any program that requires a computer of large processor resources, from overclocking will benefit, at least slightly.
This information is applicable not only to games, but also to other applications. Some programs require multi-daidity processor, rather than high nuclear speed, so the efficiency of overclocking will vary from the application to the application.
With such unpredictable results, decide on the need for overclocking may not be easy. It does not need to many users at all. However, overclocking within reasonable limits will increase the performance of the PC in all directions, but the effect of it will be so insignificant that it will not be worth the effort.
In the presence of high-class components in the computer, moderate overclocking provides only a slight increase in speed.
In most cases, the manufacturer leaves the basic possibility of overclocking. If you have a processor that can work 5% faster, it is possible to configure it to use this additional power as soon as possible without dancing with tambourine. With medium settings in games with intensive load on the CPU, for example, Handbrake, the jump in speed will be visible immediately.
Since modern computer iron and so has a good power supply, the acceleration of the CPU in most cases does not make sense. However, if you work in resource-intensive applications that can get an advantage from overclocking, there is no reason to lose additional performance. To enter too far, however, it is also not worth it: acceleration to the proceedable values reduces the service life of the processor and introduces the system into an unstable state.
He often deprives the buyer of warranty service. For some manufacturers, for example, EVGA, the effects of acceleration are covered with a standard warranty. In others, for example, Intel, there are various service plans with regard to overclocking without it. Reasonable overclocking is actually not so terrible for a computer, but keep in mind that you will most likely lose the processor warranty.
How much can you speed up the processor?
Modern processors are capable of increasing their clock frequency without interventions from the part. Intel and AMD processors independently determine the optimal clock frequency depending on the type of task. Forced acceleration is also possible. He makes them go beyond the specifications, but to say exactly how quickly the processor will work after overclocking, it is impossible.
A positive effect will be observed only under ideal circumstances. The higher the clock frequency, the stronger the processor will warm up, and there is a direct connection between cooling efficiency and the dear degrees. For example, overclocking ThreadRipper 3990x with 2.9 GHz to 4.5 GHz is quite safe when using active cooling based on liquid nitrogen. With a lower class processors, such an increase in performance is certainly impossible.
Each processor has its own characteristics, therefore there are no hard restrictions on acceleration. However, if you plan to use a dispersed processor for everyday tasks, the changes must be insignificant - 100-300 Hz above the regular indicators in the presence of a good cooling system.
What is required for overclocking?
Fit CPU. Not every processor is suitable for overclocking. It is suitable, for example, one of the Intel models of the K or any of the latest AMD Ryzen. It is also important to presence of the motherboard compatible with the overclocking function. Often, such motherboards and processors are supplied with software that replaces several tools below. When buying a finished PC, check its specifications to make sure overclocking.
Overclocking display software. Programs such as CPU-Z allow you to see the current clock speed, voltage, and other information important for tracking. Just one such tool greatly simplifies the task.
Stress testing software. A stress test is required to ensure that the overclocked processor is stable and safe. Popular options are Prime95, LinX and Aida64. Some overclockers prefer to install two or three programs and compare the results. The RealTemp helper tool will be useful for monitoring CPU temperatures under load.
Cooling. Serious overclocking is impossible without a good cooling system. This could be an oversized heatsink and/or extra fans inside the case.
Notebook or smartphone. They are useful for studying guides and video tutorials while the computer is idle.
How long will it take to accelerate?
The effectiveness of the overclock and its duration depends on how much time you are willing to spend on it. The simplified procedure involves downloading the required software and specifying a few settings. Of course, unforeseen difficulties can arise here, but the simplicity of this approach is very attractive to many users.
The key to correct and safe overclocking is a preliminary study of the process. You may need to buy some parts, for example, a new cooler. Then you need to perform basic performance tests, a stress test, and only after that you can make changes to the processor. All these steps will take about an hour. The total time to complete the stress test, which must be carried out after each change in the processor settings, will take several hours. At the same stage, control over the temperature and stability of the system is carried out.
The ultimate goal of overclocking should be considered not to experiment with the capabilities of the computer, but to obtain stable operation of the system with improved performance. It is likely that it will take more than one day to achieve such an effect. But if you do not chase the maximum figures, then it is quite possible to keep within a few hours. In some cases, the overclocking procedure takes place in several approaches and takes a total of weeks or even months.
As an alternative for AMD processors, the automated overclocking tool 1usmus Clock Tuner can be used to greatly reduce the time and effort spent on performance boosts.
Preliminary research and planning are mandatory moments, but do not forget how important it is to stop on time. Once you have achieved stable operation of a computer and a noticeable change in power, experiments on acceleration should be completed.
Conclusion: So overclock the processor or not?
The overclocking of modern processors entails less risks than before. However, this procedure requires an informed approach and great patience. The result cannot be called predictable, it can vary greatly depending on the user's skills installed in the iron computer and many other factors.
For those who do not like factory restrictions, the acceleration procedure will bring a little excitement. As soon as you figure it out with the setting of system parameters and stability tests, you will find that overclocking is really worth the effort.
Acidation is always associated with risk!
Honestly warn: there is a chance to withdraw the processor. Before you take for risky manipulations, you can count if you can afford the purchase of a new processor at the worst scenario. Do not neglect the study of Matchasts: On the Internet there is plenty of information about the acceleration of different models and related nuances. It is better to spend time and at least superficially learn about the problems in advance than to bite elbows. The same applies to diagnostic programs - download them and get acquainted with the functional follows before the overclocking.
Holders of computers on the middle gland should not be laid at overclocking high hopes. In the routine tasks of the type of work with mail and text documents, there will not be a difference anyway. Is that you will have the right to boast that you have successfully conducted such a complex procedure.
The main reason for the striving for acceleration is to increase the performance of applications that are highly dependent on the rate of calculations.
