Compare XQ360 and XQ910 models.
Compare XQ360 and XQ910 models.
You're confirming your understanding about the compatibility of these CPUs with the laptop's BIOS settings. The Q9100 and QX9300 both support the same L2 memory size and FSB, but the QX9300 runs at 2.53 GHz while the Q9100 is capped at 2.26 GHz. If the laptop's BIOS is set to a lower limit, it won't allow overclocking beyond that speed regardless of the CPU. The GM45/GM47 chipset handles the speed adjustments automatically as long as the CPU matches its requirements.
CPU speed depends on temperature and power consumption, so a laptop with proper VRM and cooling will let the CPU reach its maximum clock speed during heavy use. The BIOS also influences performance. Make sure to look up your laptop model and verify if it has the desired CPU or a compatible one. These processors are quite old—just a reminder, they’re pretty outdated these days.