Optimal configuration recommendations for i5-4670k and GTX 770
Optimal configuration recommendations for i5-4670k and GTX 770
Hi All,
I’ve been using my system for a while now and want to maximize its performance by overclocking the CPU and GPU. I’m seeking advice on pushing my hardware further. If there are any recommendations, especially those under $50, I’d be open to suggestions. I’m thinking about replacing my CPU and GPU thermal paste with IC Diamond. I believe adding more case fans wouldn’t be worth the investment in terms of temperature reduction. If I acquire additional fans, quiet models like Corsair or BeQuiet would be ideal. Ideally, I’d replace all of them. Eventually, I plan to switch to a quieter case. In the meantime, I’ll keep an eye out for a quiet case.
My motherboard (MSI Z87-G45) currently has an auto OC feature that brings my i5-4670k up to 3.9Ghz. I understand this chip can reach a stable clock speed of around 4.5Ghz with the proper cooler. My existing cooler is the Arctic Freezer 7 Pro CPU Cooler, which isn’t ideal but has been my choice for about eight years for my first build. What cooler options and OC settings do you recommend?
For my GPU (MSI GTX 770 TF 4GD5/OC), I’ve installed MSI afterburner. I’ve adjusted the fan profile to lower temperatures and reduce thermal throttling. During full load (fuzzy ring benchmark), my GPU temperature hits about 70-72°C at around 90% fan speed. The fans become noisy at speeds between 70-100%. What’s a suitable OC target? Any suggestions on the best settings? I know MSI has a gaming app that auto-OCs, but I wonder if it fully optimizes performance.
Overall, my system handles most AAA games smoothly at around 60 FPS with high settings. I need to fine-tune some game settings to maintain at least 60 FPS. I’ve heard that BIOS/Apps usually overclock well, though they might not achieve the most stable OC and could use more power than manual tuning.
Thanks for your feedback.
No problem! I'll walk you through it. I'm currently running an overclocked i5 4690K in one of my gaming desktops, so I'm ready to assist.
It seems you have solid components except for the CPU cooler, which will need a major upgrade if you're aiming for significant overclocking.
A general rule is to avoid auto OC programs altogether—they're terrible. They seem designed to damage hardware and boost sales. 😉
Before starting any overclocking, consider installing a closed-loop liquid cooler such as the H60i, H75i, or H80i. I favor the H75i, but that's just my preference. I have a midtower with a 120mm fan (stock) on top of the case and a standard one underneath.
It's a great setup! I'm currently testing an overclocked i5 4690K on my gaming PC, and I'm ready to assist.
Seems like you've got solid parts except for the CPU cooler, which will need a major upgrade if you're aiming for significant performance gains.
In general, avoid auto OC software – they're usually unreliable. They seem designed to damage hardware and boost sales.
😉
Before starting any overclocking, consider installing a closed-loop liquid cooler such as the H60i, H75i, or H80i. These are excellent options. I lean toward the H75i, though that's just my preference.
My current build includes a mid-tower with a 120mm stock fan and a standard 120mm intake fan on the front. The cooler won't be sufficient, so you'll likely overheat. Therefore, I recommend investing in a quality liquid cooler before moving forward.
Some popular free options include:
- HWmonitor
- Intel Burn Test
- AIDA64
Review your motherboard's manual – it's available online as a PDF.
Once you're ready, follow these steps:
1. Press the Delete or BIOS entry button when you boot up (sometimes labeled with an F number).
2. Navigate to the CPU settings in your BIOS.
3. Turn off Intel Turbo Boost.
4. Set the CPU core voltage to manual (try 1.130V as a starting point).
5. Adjust the core multiplier to 4.3 GHz.
6. Save and exit the BIOS.
After entering HWmonitor, begin with Intel Burn Test – it helps verify stability after OC.
Run 10 tests at Very High speed; this may take time.
Ensure your CPU temperature stays below 60°C. With a good cooler, expect around 50°C max.
If temperatures rise too high, pause the test, lower Vcore slightly (0.025–0.05V), and retry.
Keep tweaking the core multiplier and Vcore until you achieve a consistent stable OC with acceptable temps.
Aim for a Vcore below 1.35V for long-term reliability.
For extended stability checks, use AIDA64 for an hour or two, monitoring temperatures closely.
Avoid changing other BIOS settings or enabling adaptive Vcore modes.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions!