Expected OC performance?
Expected OC performance?
Hello, this is my initial contribution to the forum. I’m sure it’s placed in the appropriate section! Here’s what I shared:
My recent gaming PC build includes the following components:
Motherboard: [link]
Processor: [link]
Memory: [link]
GPU: [link]
PSU: [link]
Monitor: [link]
CPU cooler: [link]
After applying the OC utility, I managed to push another 150 MHz onto my GPU. However, this was under full PSU capacity. My thought is that the PSU might be limiting my ability to further increase performance. There seems to be a mention that the maximum OC speed for the 1070 model is around 450 MHz.
Currently, I’m achieving only about 90 FPS in BF1 with ultra settings on this configuration. I was aiming for 144 FPS and wanted to make the most of my Samsung monitor.
My question is: should I consider replacing the PSU, or would upgrading to a GTX 1080 G1 Gaming also be necessary?
Looking forward to your feedback.
Update: I’ve upgraded to a C14 Stormtrooper tower with two 140mm front fans, a 240mm top fan, and an exhaust fan. Under stress tests, the GPU reached a max of 64°C and the CPU stayed at 36°C.
Your PSU isn't operating at full capacity, I can assure you. It's not the top model available, it's quite affordable and basic, but a 650w unit is more than sufficient for your system.
Let me address your questions one by one:
First, what method did you use to reach this overclock? Were you doing it manually or using an automatic OC application?
Second, each PC component behaves differently. Imagine ten identical 1070s from the same maker—same model and serial numbers—but still perform completely differently...
Wait wait wait, please stop! Before we discuss anything else, my friend.
Your PSU is significantly more powerful than you actually require; your system would only draw 300-350 watts maximum. You could even run two 1070W units from a 650W PSU. It wouldn't be advisable with the PSU you currently have, but it could work if necessary.
Where did you come up with the idea that your PSU was at its limit?
Hello, thank you for your message. I’ll make sure to reply correctly.
As you likely know, English isn’t my primary language.
Yesterday I was testing an OC configuration, boosting the MHR by 25 per run. The stress tests included 3D Mark, Heaven, Valley, FurMark, and OCCT with memory clocking. GPU-Z was running in the background to monitor everything.
I reached a peak of 150 MHz (stable OC).
At 175 MHz, my screen began to flicker—my setup uses dual monitors with an old BenQ as the second screen—and my Samsung screen went black. At that stage, I saw GPU-Z indicating a PSU load between 99% and 102%. This led me to suspect the power supply unit might be the issue.
Since my screen went dark at 175 MHz OC, which is significantly lower than the 450 MHz OC commonly seen in others, I realized my PSU could be the problem. Using the same card but a less expensive configuration, I’m hoping for similar results.
High frame rates rely heavily on CPU performance, while FPS 1 is extremely demanding on the CPU. Are you using DX11 or DX12? Consider switching to version 11. Keep an eye on your CPU and GPU usage to identify which one is reaching its limits during the game.
The PSU load test reflects the highest wattage the GPU can safely handle before damage occurs. This has no relation to the actual power output of your PSU. Nonetheless, the voltage range of PSUs tends to be low quality, posing a risk for gaming PCs and increasing failure chances when overclocking. Overclocking demands a reliable PSU that maintains stable voltage under stress. It’s possible your PSU restricts overclocking performance, as I’ve seen a noticeable gap between a mid-range PSU (superior to VS) and a top-tier one boosting CPU overclocks by around 200MHz. The effect on the GPU remains uncertain. Your PSU falls under tier 4 – not recommended for gaming rigs or overclocking.
Your power supply unit isn’t operating at full capacity, I can assure you that. It’s not the top-tier model available, it’s quite affordable and entry-level, but a 650W rating is more than sufficient for your system setup.
Let me address your questions one by one:
First, what method did you use to reach this overclock? Were you doing it manually or using an automated OC application?
Secondly, each PC component behaves differently. Imagine having ten identical 1070s from the same brand and model—even with different serial numbers—they would perform variably, experiencing varying temperatures, clock speeds, and power demands.
This situation is often referred to as "The Silicone Lottery." Your individual GPU might only reach 150MHz, while another could hit 500MHz, and yet another might only stabilize at 600MHz.
There’s no such thing as a standard overclock. While averages can be useful, they’re just a rough estimate of what’s possible.
No! What you’re observing is the GPU’s maximum power draw, not your PSU’s load. This means each GPU has an approximate baseline power requirement. When you began overclocking, it required slightly more power than before, pushing it to its 100% threshold—causing monitor flicker and increased demand.
This is entirely normal; don’t be concerned.
If you wish to push your setup further, you’ll need to raise the GPU’s power limit and voltage settings. Modern GPUs are equipped with safeguards to prevent unsafe adjustments. As long as you adhere to these safe limits, your card remains protected and won’t suffer damage.
Only by bypassing these built-in protections—such as through custom BIOS modifications—can you risk harm.
BF1 and many other games demand high CPU performance, which is limited by clock speed rather than core count. A faster CPU will boost your FPS in BF1.
That’s your choice, but BF1’s performance is constrained by your CPU’s speed. A 1080 processor will deliver nearly identical results.
Your temperatures are excellent; you can comfortably keep the GPU at 80–85°C during gameplay. Aim for 5°C below that for optimal stability.
Your CPU is operating smoothly, around 36°C under load—ample headroom for sustained performance.
Lower temperatures are ideal, but both your GPU and CPU are engineered to function reliably at 80–90°C continuously, ensuring longevity. This gives you plenty of flexibility for future upgrades.
If that PSU was in my own setup, I would replace it right away. Sure, the wattage is much higher than necessary, but wattage alone doesn't matter. The quality of the PSU is just as important, if not more so. I've seen some of these units fail completely and cause system failures, with many discussions about problems people are facing.
If that PSU were in my own setup I would replace it right away. Sure, the wattage is more than sufficient, but wattage alone doesn’t matter much. The quality of the PSU is just as important, if not more so. I’ve seen some of these units fail completely and cause a system to crash, with many discussions online about people facing problems with them.
Thank you all for your helpful answers, I really learned a lot today.
I'm currently working, so I'll give a more detailed reply when I get back home on Monday. My Corsair PSU is from 2010, which means it's likely beyond its useful life and would be a good candidate for replacement.
I just ordered the following PSU:
http://pcpartpicker.com/product/LCfp99/e...20g20850xr
Once I finish overclocking my CPU, I'll perform an OC on my GPU and then check if my BF1 FPS meets expectations. Given the game's strong CPU requirements, swapping my i5-7600k for an i7-7700k with hyperthreading might be a better choice. I've seen benchmarks for both models, and the i7 consistently performs better.
Thanks again for your advice!
By the way, I'm planning to use Gigabyte Xtreme Gaming for overclocking.
Regarding the "Silicone lottery," since I'm maxing out at 150, I'm in the lower end of the range. My retailer offers a 45-day return policy, so maybe I'll try returning it and see if I get a better one?