Could you clarify if you mean your graphics card or something else? I’ll make sure to address it appropriately.
Could you clarify if you mean your graphics card or something else? I’ll make sure to address it appropriately.
Hello there! I have an MSI GeForce GTX970 4GB OC card and I was considering overclocking it (I've never changed anything before). From the videos and posts I've seen, it seems like overclocking with MSI AB isn't too risky since the system has its limits. I also read that when overclocking a GPU in AB, you first raise the power limit to 110% (which is 110% of the max), then gradually increase the core clock by small amounts—like +100—and when your system starts crashing, you can revert to the previously set core clock value and keep it there (that's the stable setting). The same applies to memory clock. My question is, what might actually go wrong here? Also, how can I test if my system will crash while playing games? Can I try the Valley program? And should I worry if it does crash? (I really don’t want anything to go wrong with my system.) Thanks in advance!
Also: if you have an OC for your GTX970, could you share what your original limits were and what temperature and frame rates you observed in games? Also, what was the maximum temperature you reached?
UPDATE:
I managed to OC my GPU to a core clock of 210MHz and memory clock of 500MHz. I hope that’s a good result.
😀
Also, the maximum temperature I reached was 69°C.
Regarding stress testing, I didn’t notice any significant differences—I was getting the same benchmark scores. I’m not sure if this is normal, though. Should I be satisfied with these results? And what kind of performance changes should I expect inside games after overclocking?
After installing MSI afterburner, I recommend:
1. Preserving the default settings on Profile 1
2. Beginning with the configuration at the provided link
However, wait for memory to stabilize. The final specs should be:
Core Clock 1325 MHz
Boost Clock: ~1501 MHz
Memory Clock: 7000 MHz
Test with demanding graphics programs such as Unigine benchmarks and 3D mark to check for artifacts or stability problems. Modify the clock values as needed based on earlier findings.
After the settings stabilize, proceed to save...
My 760 has stayed heavily overcloked to 1300mhz since I bought it three years ago, still works well. I often check what the card can handle with stock voltage and power limits before experimenting with different settings. I’ve experienced GPU crashes from pushing overclocks too far, usually around 100 times in its life. Most crashes are either freezes that fix themselves after a restart or driver issues that require a restart. I don’t think anything serious can happen from a failed overclok if it’s not done properly. I’ve noticed heat, age, and high voltage are more likely to damage a GPU than overclocking itself. I use valley for stress testing, and Unigene is also a good option. Just look at any GTX 970 reviews—they all mention overclocking as part of the testing process and provide temperature data. Generally, temperatures don’t rise much until you start adjusting voltage. The performance boost you get depends on the game and whether your CPU can fully utilize the GPU’s power.
My 760 has stayed overclocked to 1300mhz for three years now and still works well. I usually check what the card can handle with stock voltage and power limits before adjusting them. I’ve had my GPU crash a few times by pushing overclocks too high, usually getting freezes that fix themselves after a restart or a driver crash. I don’t think anything serious happens from a failed overclok if it’s not too extreme, as long as heat, age, and voltage are the main issues. I use valley for stress tests and unigene is also helpful. Just check any GTX 970 reviews—they all overclock them and show the temperatures. Usually, temps don’t rise much until you start changing the voltage. The performance boost you get depends on the game and whether your CPU can fully use the GPU’s power.
With MSI Afterburner installed, I recommend the following steps:
1. Preserve the default configuration on Profile 1
2. Begin with the settings provided here: http://www.guru3d.com/articles_pages/msi...ew,26.html
3. Launch demanding graphics applications such as Unigine benchmarks and 3D mark to check for artifacts or stability problems. Modify the clock values as needed based on earlier tests.
4. Once the clock stabilizes, save this configuration as Profile 2.
5. Return to the original settings, then apply the same process using the factory clock and adjust the memory settings according to the Guru3D guidance.
6. Save this as Profile 3.
Profile 1 - Stock
Profile 2 - Maximum Core
Profile 3 - Maximum Memory
These configurations will be useful for diagnosing problems when an issue occurs in a game. Checking Profiles 2 and 3 helps determine whether the problem lies with the core or memory.
7. Next, combine both maximum settings and fine-tune one at a time, starting with the memory setting. Observe how far you can lower it before achieving stable maximum core performance.
REMEMBER: The goal isn't simply to maximize core or memory, but to find the optimal balance for the highest FPS. Save this as Profile 4.
8. After finalizing, test with the lowest stable voltage setting at your own hardware specifications.
The MSI Gaming card stands out among others; its GPU temperatures remain stable unless your case lacks proper cooling. The VRM and other components are well-managed for heat dissipation, a feature uncommon on competing models.
Regarding potential damage, NVIDIA has imposed strict limitations on third-party modifications, both physically and legally. As long as you don’t physically alter the card or install a custom BIOS, any damage risk is minimal. It would also be covered under warranty.
Additionally, consider installing the MSI Gaming App, which pre-applies some of the manufacturer’s optimized settings.
SPDESIGNS:
I noticed that video made me share this post. 😀
! Also, can I run Valley while adjusting settings in AB? And if it crashes, does that indicate I’ve hit my limit?
You don’t need to be satisfied with performance for just 40 seconds—experiment with different configurations. Try using comprehensive benchmarks like Unigine and 3D mark, then run a Furmark test after step 7.
NOTE: Certain games can be particularly challenging. Battlefield 3 and 4 immediately come to mind, as did Metro 2033. I had to reduce settings significantly in Metro 2033 before it worked, but once the overclock was stable, returning to the original BIOS settings was fine.