The CPU isn't increasing performance and is running at low frequency for unclear reasons.
The CPU isn't increasing performance and is running at low frequency for unclear reasons.
i5-8250U is listed at 15W TDP, YET it can be adjusted from 10W to 25W. This processor typically fits into compact, energy-efficient laptops where long battery usage is key. For instance, the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 uses this chip and claims up to 14.5 hours of operation, extending to around 30 hours with a bigger battery.
Tasks vary in power needs, so your CPU can increase performance more during certain operations. Keep in mind that a single-core boost won’t consume as much power as all cores when under load, especially when your task manager sets it to 5.0GHz—the maximum speed for one core, not all cores you require.
It looks like OP's performance doesn't improve much under heavy loads. In XTU you can adjust the TDP to a higher value for longer sustained boost times, even if it only reaches around 2GHz per core during renders—this could still offer some gains.
I just noticed something that made me feel a bit confused... and honestly, it reminded me how limited my power was. Right now, my laptop charger is plugged in but I can't see it. Turns out it was just disconnected, which made me anxious and curious if there was an issue with my CPU since I hadn't upgraded anything recently. Thanks a ton, everyone—I probably wouldn't have discovered this until it stopped working. I tested it while plugged in and the speed jumped to 3.34GHz, then dropped back down to 83% at 1.5GHz when I unplugged it. Really sorry for wasting your time with this mistake.
Ah, I hadn't considered the battery drain from mobile use, but your laptop's power limits are fine—it helps extend its life. No worries at all!