Long running idle CPU usage on Ryzen 7 5800X
Long running idle CPU usage on Ryzen 7 5800X
Initially, I faced this problem with my Ryzen 5 5600x after donating it, and I’m convinced it’s linked to my AIO cooler. The setup includes: case MSI Vampiric 010, a planned MSI MPG VELOX 100P AIRFLOW GPU, an AMD Ryzen 7 5800x, a MSI GeForce RTX 3060 Gaming X with 8GB RAM, and a GIGABYTE P850GM V2 PSU. RAM is 4x8GB Vengeance RGB Pro with XMP-1 support at 3200MHz. The build features MSI MPG X570S EDGE MAX, Wi-Fi case fans, and includes two exhaust fans on the back. Front side has three 120mm Antec fans. Storage includes a 240GB OS drive, a 500GB games drive, and a 1TB games drive. The main concern is stabilizing CPU idle temps—often staying between 35-40°C during non-gaming tasks, while others maintain around 35-40°C regardless. Many claim this cooler is designed for high performance, yet I’m struggling to find a reason why mine heats up so much. Could the case design be limiting airflow, relying mainly on side vents and a bottom cutout? Perhaps upgrading to more efficient case fans would help, especially since the earlier models were budget options. Alternatively, using a different AIO model might make a difference. I’m hoping someone can clarify this for me and ease my worries. P.S. My HWINFO and BIOS don’t recognize the fan connected to SYS_FAN 2, even though it’s visible and plugged in.
While exploring and performing different actions, my Intel processor briefly increases its temperature before returning to normal. Ryzen is often praised for reaching higher idle temperatures thanks to voltage and turbo settings, even when not running. My Intel 10850K at 5.1Ghz stays quite low during idle and still experiences spikes of 45-60 times the normal rate during non-gaming activities like browsing or launching programs. People who have set up their systems in different locations or during various seasons may see these differences, making it hard to judge without knowing the full context. That’s why you shouldn’t compare yourself to others—just assess your own performance. For instance, try undervolting and see how it compares to your baseline. Applying thermal paste can help, but results vary. Continuous testing over time is the best way to improve, rather than investing in cooling solutions prematurely.
Adjust your AIO and apply the X-mark for a fresh setup. A typical 5800X works best at 31 to 38-41 degrees during idle, dropping as low as 26-28 when fully off. Locate the fan header on your motherboard and check if hybrid headers exist—some boards use mid/high level headers. Your case may lack proper airflow, which is a key reason for overheating. I’m using a Phanteks Entoo Pro 2 with three Noctua fans (140mm front) and an NH-U12A cooler. All the airflow available is enough for both GPU and CPU. For 240m AIOs, you’re covered—just ensure placement optimizes cooling.
I get it, it makes sense. My goal is to reduce the temperature as much as possible. I’m considering undervolting, but I’m worried it might cut into performance. PBO could be an option, though I’m not sure if it would actually help. I just need to explore any possibilities.
PBO boosts performance a lot. It’s a high-end setting. Reducing voltage is fine for some, but not everyone. If you’re serious about lowering temps, a quality case and fans are essential. As @SkilledRebuilds mentioned, your surroundings matter a lot. A strong 4000d airflow with Arctic fans can make a big difference, though I can’t guarantee it fixes everything. For example, my CPU stays between 2 and 6°C above ambient. I keep my room at a steady 24°C, clean my PC every two months to prevent dust buildup (my dogs make it necessary), and I have a 5800x that draws around 150 watts when PBO is on. A 240mm AIO usually handles about 180W, while better models like EKWBs 240mm or Arctic liquid freezers (240mm size) perform even better—especially with top fans. If you’re not under-volting your Ryzen, turn off PBO in Ryzen Master and enable PBO 2 via BIOS. But you’re relying on the chip design, so you’ll need a detailed guide. Check out this link for my build if you’re curious: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/ZVXtC6