Yes, a GPU can influence CPU temperatures.
Yes, a GPU can influence CPU temperatures.
My configuration: Intel Core i5 11400F (stock cooler, the newer black one with copper core) ASUS Phoenix 3060 (12GB) 16GB RAM Motherboard: PRIME H510M-K I recently switched from a 970 to a 3060. I'm running the same games with identical graphics settings, the same Windows version, without altering anything. Despite this, my CPU reaches temperatures up to 100ºC, suspecting it's throttling to avoid overheating. I verified that I hadn't accidentally dislodged the cooler during GPU installation and ensured everything was secure. Even after lifting the cooler, changing thermal paste, and confirming proper mounting, the temps remain extremely high. With the 970 model, I recall it would idle at 30-40°C and turbo at 70-80°C. Now it idles between 40-60°C and turboing at 90-100°C with the 3060. My concern is whether the GPU influences CPU temperatures. If I play a demanding game while the CPU runs at low load (20-30%), the temps spike dangerously to 80-90°C. When both CPU and GPU are taxed, it can push the CPU to 100°C instantly. The first image shows readings from running Cinebench with 2 threads, the second with all 12 threads. Why does the temperature jump so abruptly? Is the GPU causing this issue or is there another factor at play? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
If the new GPU is physically larger, it could impact airflow and in turn, temperatures. Your temperatures are within the safe zone still, I'd worry when they start crossing 100 degrees. If you're concerned, you can try buying a new CPU cooler or adding some case fans to improve airflow.
The 3060 usually includes a pass-through cooler to help, but it seems your GTX970 might not have been powerful enough to fully utilize the CPU. Now that you have a significantly faster 3060, the CPU is actually demanding more effort. A decent cooling solution would be the thermalright peerless assasin 120, which offers top-end performance for around 35 dollars.
The GPU is quite compact in a fun way (I owned a 3-fan windforce version of the 970). The case is also neat, with the GPU having its own fan slot from the front and the CPU featuring two exhaust fans—one at the top of the case right above the cooler and another at the back behind it. The arrangement resembles this: (I still had space for an additional front fan, any changes are welcome if the configuration is flexible). I’ve been reading about others using the same GPU-CPU setup and they haven’t experienced those high temperatures. I’m considering upgrading to a new cooler since another user mentioned it. But is it really that much more demanding? I got the lower-end model just to stay ahead of potential issues, and honestly, I was about to purchase a 4060 Ti just to future-proof things. Thanks for not getting that one!
This setup seems quite average at best. I respect the DVD burner, especially for someone who loves physical media. The jump from GTX 970 to RTX 3060 is a noticeable improvement in performance. A 4060Ti would probably face similar issues—temperatures and efficiency—just like your current configuration, except the CPU would limit the GPU instead of the other way around.
Key factors involved: the stock cooler attached to the CPU and the graphics card. When the graphics card demands more from the CPU (it does quite so), it raises power consumption and heat generation. The second point suggests the graphics card likely consumes more power than the 970 or handles thermal management better, meaning cooler air is circulated to keep the heatsink temperature down. Edited October 28, 2023 by Godlygamer23
Thanks for the feedback! I’m set on the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 cooler. I’m also exploring Nocua alternatives, but those prices are quite steep. Upgrading my CPU later makes sense, even though I bought it a year ago. I have a spare case, so I can build another rig with the remaining parts and sell it to recoup some funds.
The case fan typically creates an expanding cone of airflow behind it, so consider the 3060 is larger and longer, while the GPU block might push some air toward the CPU. Additionally, depending on the specific model, there could be a design that directs airflow through the system, causing heated air from the GPU to reach the RAM and in front of the CPU.
I own the 1 fan model—it's actually more compact than the 970. It lacks a flow-through design. My setup includes a fan positioned above the RAM and CPU cooler (see diagram shared previously).