Undervolting your laptop can be an effective way to reduce heat generation, potentially improve performance, and extend battery life. Undervolting involves lowering the voltage supplied to your laptop’s CPU, which can help it run cooler and more efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to undervolt your PC so it runs cooler below:
Note: Undervolting involves making changes to your laptop’s hardware settings, and while it’s generally safe when done correctly, it may void your warranty. Proceed with caution, and understand that results can vary depending on your laptop model.
Check Compatibility:
- Not all laptops support undervolting. Intel processors with unlocked voltage settings (e.g., “K” series processors) are often easier to undervolt, but some laptops with standard CPUs allow it as well. AMD laptops may also support undervolting. Check your laptop’s specifications and the manufacturer’s documentation to confirm.
Backup Your Data:
- Before making any changes, it’s a good practice to back up your important data. While undervolting typically doesn’t cause data loss, it’s better to be safe.
Download Undervolting Software:
- You’ll need specialized software to undervolt your laptop’s CPU. Two popular options are:
- Intel XTU (Extreme Tuning Utility): If you have an Intel CPU, Intel XTU is a user-friendly tool for undervolting. You need to download it from Intel’s website.
- ThrottleStop: ThrottleStop is a versatile utility that works with both Intel and some AMD processors.
Install the Software:
- After downloading, install the undervolting software on your laptop.
Launch the Software:
- For Intel XTU: Open the application and navigate to the “Advanced Tuning” tab.
- For ThrottleStop: Run the program and click the “FIVR” (Voltage/FIVR Control) button.
Undervolt the CPU:
- In Intel XTU: Move the “Core Voltage Offset” slider to the left (negative values) to decrease the voltage. Start with a small undervolt, like -50mV, and gradually increase it in small increments.
- In ThrottleStop: Check the “Unlock Adjustable Voltage” box, and then adjust the “Offset Voltage” under “FIVR Control.” Similar to Intel XTU, start with a small undervolt and gradually increase it while testing for stability.
Stress Testing:
- After each undervolt adjustment, stress test your laptop using a tool like Prime95 or IntelBurnTest to ensure that it remains stable under load. If it crashes or experiences instability, revert to the previous stable voltage setting.
Monitor Temperatures:
- While stress testing, keep an eye on your laptop’s temperatures. You should see a reduction in CPU temperature as you undervolt. This is a good indicator that your undervolt settings are effective.
Save Profiles:
- Many undervolting tools allow you to save profiles, so you can easily switch between different voltage settings based on your needs (e.g., gaming, everyday use, battery saving).
Apply Undervolt at Startup:
- In most cases, you’ll want your undervolt settings to apply at startup. Check for options within the undervolting software to enable this.
Reboot:
- After applying your undervolt settings, reboot your laptop to ensure they take effect.
Monitor Stability:
- Continue using your laptop as usual and monitor its stability. If you encounter any issues, you can always return to the undervolting software and make adjustments as needed.
You can vary from one laptop to another, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect balance between performance, stability, and temperature reduction. Always proceed with caution, and if you’re uncomfortable with undervolting, consider seeking assistance from a professional or experienced user.
