Would it be advisable to attempt boosting my 8700k to 5.1GHZ considering the current temperatures?
Would it be advisable to attempt boosting my 8700k to 5.1GHZ considering the current temperatures?
My complete configuration is defined in my signature.
I increased the 8700k to 5.0GHZ using these parameters:
MCE Disabled
AVX Offset – 3
Sync Cores/Ratio – 50
SVID DIsabled
Enter External Digi → Load-Line – Level 6
Enter Internal CPU → Set Long/Short to Max
Core Cache Limit Max – Max
Min CPU Cache Ratio – 42
Max CPU Cache Ratio – 42
BCLK Adaptive Voltage – Always Disable (What is BCLK Adaptive Voltage?)
CPU Core/Cache Voltage – Manual
^Under This → Override – 1.350V
I tested AIDA64 for roughly an hour; the peak temperature reached was 78°C, with an average around 73°C.
I haven’t adjusted the voltage to check if lower speeds would also work stably at that frequency, so those temps might be slightly lower.
The tests were conducted with the side panel on and the fans running at 3000RPM Noctua Industrial at 2000RPM.
I’m comfortable increasing the fan speed permanently if needed, since noise isn’t a concern.
Some users say 5.1GHZ is hard to reach without removing parts. But I’m not ready to try that now.
My system is heavily CPU and RAM demanding (no need for a powerful graphics card).
What are your thoughts? Is it safe to attempt 5.1GHZ under these conditions, or should I stick with the current setting?
Just to mention there is no public information from Intel regarding expected lifespan at particular voltages. Even gamernexus acknowledged in a recent video that "safe" voltage ranges for new hardware are essentially guesswork when the data isn't released. Intel hasn't released safe voltage guidelines for coffee lake. There are internet reports about voltage degradation near 1.4v, AVX spikes beyond set limits, and actual voltages often exceed what software shows—so I recommend this approach. For context, my Haswell model experienced voltage degradation twice over five years at just 1.15v. If you plan to run above 1.35v, consider purchasing Intel's tuning warranty to cover overclocking-related damage.
I'm not as worried about the temperatures as I am about the voltage. It's best to stay under 1.4V if possible, particularly during longer use. Since you're within that range and the temperatures are fine, I'd be willing to push the limits a bit. Keep in mind Intel guarantees overclocking, so you're not really risking much if you decide to try it.
I'm not as worried about the heat as I am about the voltage. It's best to stay under 1.4V if possible, particularly for longer use. Since you're below that and the temps are fine, I'd be willing to test how far I can go. Keep in mind Intel guarantees overclocking, so you're not risking much if you decide to try it.
Before I push it, I noticed the VCore was already jumping to 1.42 right out of the box. I don't know why.
I plan to keep at 1.4 or lower and see how much I can improve gradually. Honestly, I'd rather settle for 5.0 if I can't go higher with extreme voltages than just meet the overclock warranty requirements.
Still curious, though—why do people try to increase voltage when it mainly affects temperatures? It seems like a common misconception.
testtube5 :
the question is whether voltage problems are actually the main concern instead of temperature. Why would people still lower their CPU voltages to achieve higher overclocking performance, especially since heat management plays a big role? In certain situations, I see people running below 1.4V but still facing thermal constraints because of weak heat dissipation from under the IHS. That means they’re limited by temperature first, and only when that’s no longer possible do they consider increasing voltage for more performance.
A 2% overclock isn't justified by the vcore. Increase your cache and avx offset, but I'm confident you still have room to spare.
I think you attempted to reach your current overclock using a lower vcore, but it didn’t work stably. You mentioned wanting to try 5.1ghz, but with the voltage you’re already applying plus possibly some higher settings, temperatures will rise significantly. It would be better to upgrade to a 360aio or accept what you have. The jump from 5.0 to 5.1 is only small and doesn’t justify the added strain on your system.
urbancamper :
I think you probably attempted to push your current overclock down to a lower voltage, but it didn’t work out. I understand you’re aiming for 5.1ghz, but if you try to run it on air with the existing voltage plus what you think is needed—possibly just under 1.4—the temperatures will rise significantly. It would be wiser to get a 360 AIO or accept your current setup. The jump from 5.0 to 5.1 isn’t that big and adds unnecessary strain.
I didn’t actually test whether 1.35v is the minimum voltage for stable 5.0ghz. I just followed a guide without much experience in overclocking.
Also, as mentioned, my computer specs are listed here, and I’m using the H115i. Should I check the lowest voltage you can get 5.0GHZ stable at, and then come back with the details so we can advise further?
I think you attempted to push your current overclock with a lower voltage, but it didn’t hold stability. You mentioned wanting to try 5.1ghz, but if you increase the voltage to match or exceed what you’re already using—possibly just under 1.4V—the temperatures will rise significantly. It might be wiser to upgrade to a better cooler or accept your current setup. I didn’t test whether 1.35V was the minimum for stable 5.0GHz, just followed a guide. I’m not very experienced with overclocking. My specs are listed in my profile, and I’m using an H115i. Should I check the lowest voltage that lets 5.0GHz run stably, then come back with the details? That would help you decide your next move.