What is CPU Boost, How Does It Operate, and Why Should You Turn It On to Get the Most Out of Your Computer?
Want your PC to run faster and better? Then you should know about Boost, the feature that pushes your processor and graphics card to the limit when you need it.
You may have noticed that these components (CPU and GPU) have two different clock frequencies: minimum and maximum. This is because they are able to adapt to the performance requirements at any given moment.
In this article, we explain what this feature is, how it works, and what benefits it offers your computer or laptop. We will also give you some tips to get the most out of this technology.
What is CPU Boost?
CPU Boost is a technology that allows your processor to adapt to the needs of your applications and the temperature level of your computer. It consists of increasing the speed of the CPU when more power is needed and thermal margin is available. So your chip can run faster than its rated speed, as long as it does not overheat.
To achieve this performance boost, the technology also adjusts the processor voltage, forming what is called dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS).
In short, it makes your processor make the most of the available power to speed up your applications, whether at the CPU or GPU level.
It is worth noting that there are two options available in the market: Intel Turbo Boost and AMD Precision Boost. Both are brand names for their own technologies, but ultimately they provide similar results.
Reasons to activate Boost on your computer
CPU Boost is a feature that allows you to automatically and easily improve the performance of your computer. With it, you don't have to worry about manually overclocking or modifying the BIOS; the feature is responsible for adjusting the speed according to the needs of each program.
This way, you can enjoy a faster and more efficient system and a better gaming experience with high-quality graphics and greater fluidity. It is definitely an option worth activating on your computer. However, first and foremost, you should consider the following:
Reasons for leaving it activated
Performance Boost: CPU Boost provides a significant performance boost without the need to manually overclock.
Auto Temperature Adjustment: CPU boost is automatically based on processor temperature. If the temperature is suitable, it is activated to provide extra performance.
Effective temperature management: The CPU dynamically adjusts speed and voltage to effectively manage temperature, preventing it from becoming too hot.
Reasons for its disabling
Save battery power: For laptops used for light tasks, disabling CPU boost may extend battery life.
Low temperatures: In certain situations where keeping the CPU at low temperatures is critical, disabling Boost may be useful.
How to activate Boost on your computer
1: Enter BIOS/UEFI: Turn off and on your computer, and while it is starting up, press the key that allows you to enter BIOS or UEFI. This key may vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer, but it is usually F2 or F10.
2: Find Boost settings: Explore the BIOS/UEFI menus until you find an option that says Boost. It may have a name like “CPU Boost” or “Turbo Boost” or something similar.
3: Activate the option: When you find the option, change it to activated or equivalent.
4: Save and Reboot: Save the changes you made in BIOS/UEFI and restart your computer. This way you can enjoy the CPU boost.
In short, Boost in Windows is an option that allows you to increase the speed and performance of your computer, whether it is a PC or a laptop. This option is usually enabled by default, but you can disable it if you wish.