I7-10700k (non oc) performance boosters
I7-10700k (non oc) performance boosters
Hey everyone. I managed to stabilize my graphics card temperatures in a range that feels good, so now I’m checking my CPU temps. While gaming, a few cores hit around 100°C but then dropped back down to the high 80s to low 90s. In a Cinebench test with higher core temps, most cores stayed in the high 70s to low 80s, though some reached the high 80s. My main concern is how to boost cooling efficiency. I’m just starting out with this build—thank you for the tax return—and my first CPU liquid cooler setup is the CyberPowerPC MasterLiquid Lite 120mm ARGB model with a dual chamber pump and copper cold plate case (Nzxt H510). I’ve attached the Cinebench results and core temp chart for reference. Thanks all!
This cooler isn’t surprising at all—it’s a CyberPower-branded Cooler Master 120mm AIO, but it might not handle the 10700k well. What’s your fan setup? If you prefer keeping the AIO, boosting airflow could lower temperatures.
I have three intake fans (two front, one back) and an exhaust that opens at the top, with the power supply fan serving as another exhaust. You're considering swapping the air cooler. That setup is manageable, but you should check your options carefully. The CPU temperature readings show your Tjmax stayed around 115°C, which is within safe limits unless there are spikes on individual cores. If it ever hits 90°C, it’s likely due to those spikes. Replacing the aio might be worth it if you want better cooling and reliability.
90C places you right in the upper range of typical expectations. If you're not seeing any noticeable impact on performance—or if you're indifferent—then it's probably nothing significant. I wouldn't anticipate a major reduction in your CPU's longevity from those temperatures.
10700k draws 125W from a stock that runs at roughly 4.2-4.3ghz across all cores. That cooling load with such a compact cooler is quite challenging. You might consider boosting the CPU voltage slightly to shift it toward around 100W, assuming your system has sufficient headroom. I suspect you chose a high-end "K" CPU for overclocking purposes. For that, a superior cooler or powerful fans in a push-pull setup would be advisable. Increasing the RPM could help, but I doubt this unit will handle more than 150W even under optimal settings. I also saw an i7-10875H mobile model running at 4.2ghz with turbo boost to 95W, which is impressive for its class.