Can CPU Undervolting Cause Stuttering? [Conclusive Answer]

Written By Farhan Max

CPU Undervolting is superb for preventing unnecessary voltage consumption and clearing your pocket.

But trouble comes free with benefits. Sometimes, you may face performance changes and wonder if the undervolting is causing the differences.can-cpu-undervolting-cause-stuttering

In this article, I’ll discuss the CPU undervolting and the performance variation after the undervolting.

So buckle up, and let’s begin.

What is CPU Undervolting?

CPU undervolting is the technique to reduce the voltage supply to the processor to reduce power consumption and decrease the heat generation of the CPU. Undervolting gives a relatively stable performance and increases the lifespan of the processor.

When a CPU is stressed, it generates heat and increases the processor temperature. Sometimes, it causes system instability, and the excessive heat shuts down the CPU.

At that time, the CPU goes to the thermal throttling mode and decreases the clock speed to reduce the temperature. As a result, the extreme fan noise comes to normal but affects the performance significantly.

To eradicate this issue, CPU undervolting lowers the voltage supply to the processor and keeps the clock speed in control. Therefore, the temperature stays down, and users get a stable performance and higher efficiency from the computer.

But, it also compromises the maximum output of the PC, and you may face difficulties while running some programs.

Does Undervolting CPU Cause Stuttering?

Yes, the undervolting process can cause CPU stuttering in your programs and games. While it’s beneficial for steady temperature and power efficiency, it also reduces the clock speed. As a result, it affects the maximum performance and starts showing stuttering.

Some programs, especially games, require much voltage compared to the average time. When you undervolted the CPU, it can’t provide enough power to the processor and limits the clock speed.

For this reason, the CPU becomes marginally stable and begins the clock-stretching state. As soon as the processor gets a lower voltage than sustaining a stable performance, it lowers the clock speed until the voltage becomes normal.

When it happens, you will face stuttering in different programs and games. It can cause frame drops, lags, and performance issues on your computer.

Also, the stuttering depends substantially on how well the undervolting is done. If you incorrectly lower the voltage level, it will cause massive stuttering in programs.

But, a well-performed undervolting can improve the condition and reduce stuttering.

Does Undervolting CPU Reduce Performance?

The performance after decreasing the CPU voltage depends on the undervolting quality. In most cases, the undervolting improves the performance by preventing the CPU from hitting the maximum limit. However, bad undervolting can cause performance drops in programs.

Every CPU has a maximum temperature limit. When the PC is at its peak speed, the processor reaches the maximum limit and can hamper your CPU. Also, this excessive speed can fluctuate the FPS & performance and give you an unstable experience.

Hence, the undervolting process hinders your processor from reaching the maximum limit by lowering the voltage level. As a result, the CPU can perform better in the long run and give a stable performance throughout the session.

But, some programs and games need a higher clock speed to run. And an adequate cooling system can withdraw the chance of thermal throttling. In that situation, the undervolting hinders your maximum performance by limiting the power input.

Also, if the undervolting doesn’t suit your power management and fails to balance the necessary voltage requirement, it can reduce the computer’s performance.

Can Undervolting Damage the CPU?

No, a correctly performed undervolting doesn’t damage the processor. But if you do undervolt, it can potentially void the CPU’s warranty. However, overdoing the voltage lowering or incorrect undervolting can significantly decrease the performance and make your PC unstable.

The Ryzen Master and Intel XTU help lowering voltage in CPU, and the undervolting process is entirely safe. As there is no hardware factor related, there’s no chance of damaging the CPU.

As long as you don’t mess up with the clock speed, it’s a less risky job, at least from overclocking a processor.

Though, if you do the undervolting improperly or screw up during the process, it’s pretty easy to redo the undervolting and return to the normal state.

So, there’s no tension of getting the CPU damaged after the undervolting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can low voltage cause stuttering?

Yes, low voltage hinders the PC components from running at full potential and causes stuttering.

Can I redo CPU undervolting?

Yes, you can redo the CPU undervolting and go back to the normal state by using Ryzen Master and Intel XTU.

Is it ok to undervolt as much as possible?

No, the voltage and clock speed are linked, and undervolting too much will create system instability.

Conclusion

A perfect CPU undervolting can increase and give a stable performance on your PC. But, doing it wrong can cause insatiable situations and stuttering while working or playing games.

This article has explained everything related to CPU undervolting and stuttering, and if you find this informative, don’t forget to share them in the comment box below.

Cheers!

About The Author
Farhan Max is a tech geek with a particular interest in computer hardware. He's been fascinated by gaming since childhood and is now completing his undergraduate studies while researching and testing the latest tech innovations. Alongside his love for all things geeky, Farhan is also a skilled photographer.

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