Advantages and disadvantages of overclocking CPU

Overclocking is the process of increasing the CPU clock speed of a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) or graphics processing unit (GPU) beyond the manufacturer’s rated speed. This is done by adjusting settings in the computer’s BIOS or by using software tools. The goal is to make the computer run faster, which can be useful for tasks that require a lot of processing power, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.

The main benefit of overclocking a CPU is to increase system performance by increasing its execution speed. However, the improvement may come with some disadvantages such as the system overheating or components getting damaged. 

What factors to consider before overclocking the CPU

There are several factors that can affect the potential for overclocking a CPU or GPU, including the quality of the components, the cooling system, and the stability of the system. Below are some of the things you should know before you consider overclocking your CPU or GPU.

1. Does the processor and motherboard support overclocking? Ensure that your processor can be overclocked. AMD processors are all said to support the enhancement. For Intel CPU most of the latest do support it.
2. Cooling system: before you can think of making any changes ensure your computer cooling system can sufficiently cool your computer. If not sure you can add an extra cooling system to be on the safe side.
3. Make sure you have software to test the stability of your system after you implement the performance improvements. This makes sure that you don’t overdo it and end up damaging your components.
4. Overclocking deals with changing system BIOS settings, and increasing CPU voltage usage among other critical settings. If you are not sure what you are doing please DON’T continue. You may do irreversible damage to your system.
5. Any damage that results from overclocking cannot be pinned on the manufacturer since that is outside the device warranty cover.

Advantages of overclocking CPU

1. Increase system performance: This is the primary benefit of overclocking to make sure the computer is working beyond what the manufacturer rating.
2. Optimize CPU speed: overclocking means increasing the clock speed of the system which in turn increases processor speed to its maximum.
3. It can be part of system upgrading to meet new software requirements with minimal cost on the hardware.
4. For a minimal system upgrade it is cheaper than buying a new system with higher CPU ratings.

Disadvantages of overclocking CPU

1. Processor damage: since the CPU operates at a higher than manufacturer speed it overheats. If your system doesn’t have an appropriate cooling system mechanism it may damage the processor.
2. Overclocking is not covered under the device warranty. This means if any damage happens the manufacturer cannot be blamed.
3. Due to overheating, you may need an extra cooling system to ensure your system is safe from overheating.
4. Computers will consume more power to enable them to run at a high-performance rate.
5. CPU overclocking may make your computer unstable. This may give errors when booting or it may not completely boot.