It is also essential to do this before you start overclocking, because changing the clock speeds has an effect on the CPU memory controller, and you will need to balance the CPU clock speeds along with the new XMP profile. Having your memory running at the absolute best clock speeds is essential when overclocking, so you will need to enable your XMP profile. There are others at similar price leves, though most of the benchmarks we've seen for overclocking use the ASUS ROG Maximus or a non-RGB board like the MSI MEG Z690, so there is some evidence to suggest good compatibility when tweaking the CPU & memory.ĪSUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero Intel MotherboardĪrctic Liquid Freezer II 360mm Cooler - Best Overclocking Cooling
#CINEBENCH SCORE LOWER AFTER OVERCLOCK SOFTWARE#
Both boards are DDR5, and both perform equally well with thermals and XTU software compatibility. There are two motherboards recommended for overclocking the Socket LGA 1700 12900K. Overclock The i9-12900K - Getting Startedīefore you get started and into XTU, you will need a few things that are absolutely essential, though some are optional. This guide will outline the initial process of overclocking the i9-12900K, but also why you might want to forget the idea of manually overclocking altogether, and go with a hybrid manual/AI method. You should expect around 5% increase in performance for your troubles. Having sufficient education in overclocking is vital to ensure you do not brick your shiny new Alder Lake CPU, so we highly recommend reading about the fundamental aspects of overclocking an unlocked processor here and here.īut here is the main takeaway that you should really consider: OVERCLOCKING THE 12900K WILL NOT RESULT IN MASSIVE GAINS. IntelĪltering clock frequency or voltage may void any product warranties and reduce stability, security, performance, and life of the processor and other components. If you don’t, we recommend that you check out our guide to overclocking before proceeding.
Intel® Extreme Tuning Utility (Intel® XTU) is aimed at intermediate-level users that have some basic knowledge about overclocking and how it works.
#CINEBENCH SCORE LOWER AFTER OVERCLOCK UPGRADE#
You are undertaking an upgrade that COULD end in problems, issues or outright failure of your hardware & components - so it is vitally important that you not only read the information below, but also refer to Intel's official statements on overclocking the Core i9-12900K using the Intel® Extreme Tuning Utility (Intel® XTU). Not only are you going to need a solid motherboard as a starting point, you'll also need an adequate cooling solution for the CPU and, potentially, cooling for the motherboard as well. Before we detail what you'll need overclock a Core i9-12900K, or talk about the thermal and overheating issues you've no doubt heard about for this chip, it is highly recommended you understand the risks & rewards in equal measure.