Should I overclock?
Should I overclock?
Consider whether upgrading your CPU, GPU, or RAM would benefit your system. Your current build includes a decent setup with stock parts and no gaming demands. You’re using the AMD Wraith stealth cooler and integrated graphics, and mainly run AutoCAD and basic tasks. Since you’re not gaming, focusing on maximizing RAM usage seems more practical. Overclocking the GPU might help performance but isn’t necessary unless you notice bottlenecks. For RAM, your 2x8GB should suffice for most needs. Let me know if you’d like advice on optimizing RAM settings. Thanks!
You likely don’t have sufficient thermal headroom for an overclock. I’m not certain because I haven’t adjusted the integrated graphics Ryzen chips, but from what I’ve observed on a 1800x model, better cooling is necessary. Also, based on my experience with Kaveri APUs, the integrated graphics tend to make the chip even hotter, adding more complexity. Remember that the stock fans are usually just enough to get the system running. Now that you have a powerful cooler like the Wraith, you could easily replace the fan with a similar one and still manage mild to moderate overclocking. However, for anything more extreme, you’d need a completely new heatsink and fan, improved case airflow, or water cooling.
For that processor, achieving the highest performance comes from optimizing your RAM settings. This APU is already operating near its thermal limits, and its TDP often leads to throttling because the TDP is distributed between the CPU and graphics. Check your motherboard manual to adjust your BIOS settings for higher memory frequency, then verify stability. After that, fine-tune timings and repeat the process. Lower latency will benefit your CPU, while improved bandwidth will aid your integrated graphics.
For non-gaming purposes, overclocking RAM and CPU provides the greatest benefit.
1 ) Aim for a 3200 c16 boost in your RAM.
2 ) Increase CPU speed by a few hundred MHz.
3 ) Only consider GPU overclocking if you need 3D CAD work.
As per Peuget Systems in Autocad, "Only 3D models need more than a standard GPU, but for most tasks working with 2D models is enough, so saving on the GPU and investing in a faster CPU would be wiser."
In general, overclocking RAM and CPU will yield the biggest improvement.
You can expect around 3.8-3.9ghz from the CPU under stock cooling.
Try setting it to 3.8ghz @ 1.3v and ensure the CPU stays under 80% load.
Your RAM should reach an additional 3200 c16.
Understand over-clocking thoroughly before proceeding. Set up your equipment correctly. Gain additional knowledge about this process. Test minor adjustments and record detailed observations. Handle voltage modifications with caution. Avoid making changes without understanding their effects, as they could harm the hardware.