Overclocking is a common term used very often by computer users. Most components of the computer like CPU, GPU, RAM, and Monitor works at a specific clock speed. So, before you understand What is Overclocking, it is essential to understand What is Clock Speed. Later, we will also discuss whether Overclocking the computer components is safe or not.
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What is Clock Speed?
Clock speed is a measure of how many clock cycles the component can perform in one second. It is measured in Hertz. In modern computers, we measure clock speed in GHz (GigaHertz). 1 GH is equal to one billion Hertz.
More clock speed = better performance
When buying a computer component like CPU, GPU, or RAM, if two models have similar features, then you should choose the component with a higher clock speed. We have also explained this in our previous article on RAM Buying Guide.
However, some users overclock the components to get a better result.
What is Overclocking?
The process of increasing the clock speed of a component is called Overclocking. You can use software to increase the clock speed of CPU, GPU, or RAM in a few minutes. Therefore, improving the overall performance of the component. The overclocked component performs much better. Then, you might be wondering – Why Brands does not overclock it by default?
Why Brands does not overclock components by default?
The Manufacturers sets the clock speed of the components to a safe limit. By overclocking, we are removing the safety limit. That means the changes of the component to burnout are higher.
Moreover, the Manufacturers don’t know how many cooling fans we use or what cooling system we use. Therefore, they set the clock speed at a safe limit. However, some brands do Overclock Graphics Cards. Because the Dedicated Graphics Cards come with a cooling system. On the other hand, CPU & RAM doesn’t have a dedicated cooling system.
Check out the ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3060 Twin Edge that is pre-overclocked and comes with adequate cooling.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Is Overclocking Safe?
Overclocking is safe to an extent. But using the overclocked component for a long time could overheat and damage it. Therefore, make sure you have a good cooling system before overclocking the device. Or else, you could damage the component along with the motherboard permanently.
If compared, Graphics Card is the safest component to overclock, and CPU is the riskiest.
Now that you understand What is Overclocking, do you wish to Overclock any of your components? Comment below and let us know which component you wish to Overclock.
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