Overclocking

In short: When overclocking, a component (processor, graphics card, memory) runs at a higher clock than the manufacturer intended. That brings more performance but also more heat and consumption.

In more detail: The gain today is often small (a few percent) because modern chips adjust their clock themselves (boost). Overclocking can shorten lifespan, affect the warranty and make the system unstable.

In Depth

• Requirements: overclockable CPU (for example Intel “K”, AMD Ryzen), suitable motherboard, good cooling, sufficient power supply.
• Approach: raise the clock step by step, check for errors with stress tests (Prime95, Cinebench, OCCT), watch temperatures.
• Voltage: More voltage helps stay stable but generates a lot of heat.
• Memory: XMP/EXPO profiles load manufacturer clocks. Technically that is also overclocking.
• Counterpart: Undervolting saves energy and heat with almost no loss.

See also: TDP and thermal throttling, Cooling and thermal paste