While overclocking is something that most users thrive for in order to make their machine as powerful as possible, underclocking has its own benefits. There are two ways to underclock a CPU. How you want to do the downclocking is usually based on the CPU that you have or your personal preference. The most common way to do it is via BIOS, but, doing it through Windows alone is also possible.
In a hurry? The most usual way of underclocking a CPU is to enter BIOS, find the “Frequency/Voltage Control settings”, then find and lower the CPU clock speed as well as the core voltage. Once you do that, save the settings and you are all done. Start by lowering the numbers by smaller amounts so you can tune it to your preference while also spotting the point where the performance begins to suffer.
Is Underclocking Safe?
Unlike overclocking, underclocking CPU to reduce temperature is actually very safe and beneficial to your hardware. Underclocking your CPU also doesn’t cause any damage to your hardware. However, if you overdo it, you will notice some reduced performance. Overall, underclocked machines tend to last longer, especially compared to those which are overclocked.
Now if doing so is worth it, that is all up to you. If you are planning to use your computer only for some minimalist features such as watching movies, listening to music, doing office work, and doing similar things that do not require huge hardware support, then you should do it.
On the other hand, if you are planning to do some gaming or work in a professional graphic design program, underclocking will have a negative impact.
How To Underclock CPU With Windows?
Whether you are interested in how to underclock CPU AMD or CPU Intel, or how to underclock CPU laptop, the safest and easiest way to do it is through Windows. The answer to the question “How to underclock CPU Windows 10?” is actually quite simple, as all you would have to do is follow these easy to follow steps:
- Right-click the Start button and then go to Settings
- Click on System, and then “Power and Sleep”
- Click the “Additional power settings” on the right side of the window under “Related settings”
- In the newly opened window, click the “Change plan settings”
- Click “Change advanced power settings”
- Click “Processor power management” so it expands
- Click “Maximum processor state” so it expands
- Change the percentage level you would like the processor to operate at
- Click “Apply”.
In order to revert these changes to default, all you have to do is click the “Restore default settings for this plan” in the “Edit Plan Settings” window that appears in step 4. Underclocking CPU to reduce heat like this is recommended if your cooling system is not good enough to keep up, and even if your performance suffers a bit, it is worth keeping the temperatures low with underclocking via Windows.
Downclock CPU FAQ
Does Undervolting Reduce Performance?
Undervolting can reduce performance, but only if done in great amounts. It really depends on what you are planning to do with your machine. There is usually no difference in performance for programs that do not require a lot of from your CPU to begin with. However, programs that do, such as modern video games, will certainly suffer in terms of performance.
How To Underclock CPU Without BIOS?
You can underclock the CPU without BIOS via Windows through the “Power & Sleep” options. There is a step-by-step guide in this article before the FAQ section that you should check out if you need more assistance.
Will Underclocking CPU reduce heat?
Yes, as you decrease the voltage to your CPU, you will also lower the heat dissipation drastically.
What happens when I Underclock my CPU?
If you underclock your CPU, you are lowering the voltage your CPU is going to operate under. This will cause it to have lower temperatures and prolonged life, but it could suffer in terms of performance if you underclock it too much.
How do I Underclock my Ryzen CPU?
You can underclock your Ryzen CPU via BIOS by lowering and disabling certain settings based on your model.
Does Underclocking CPU Increase Battery Life?
Yes. By lowering the voltage to the processor, you are not only lowering the temperature but also increasing the battery life significantly.
Final Thoughts About Underclock CPU
The last words of advice on how to lower clock speed CPU are that you should really ask yourself if your machine needs it. Most PCs and laptops today will not have that big of a prolonged life if you underclock the CPU, and the only thing downclocking is useful for is to lower the electricity bills, which you can easily do through Windows via other power settings.
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