How to Overclock Intel Core i7-10700K & 11700K (Beginner's Guide)

 

Are you still rocking an Intel Core i7-10700K or i7-11700K in your gaming rig? Even though these processors are a few generations old, they are still absolute beasts. By pairing them with a good Z490 or Z590 motherboard (like the ASUS ROG Strix or MSI Tomahawk), you can unlock extra performance for absolutely free.

Who Actually Needs to Overclock These CPUs?

Overclocking is simply telling your computer's brain (the CPU) to work faster than its factory settings. This guide is perfect for two types of people:

• 🎮 Budget Gamers: If you play competitive games like Valorant, CS:GO 2, or Fortnite and want to guarantee a smooth 144+ FPS without buying a brand-new PC.
• 🎬 Video Editors & Creators: If you use Premiere Pro or Blender and want your videos and 3D models to render faster, saving you valuable time.

💡 Upgraded to a newer generation? If you recently bought a newer 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen PC, check out our updated guide on How to Safely Overclock Intel Core i5-13600K, 14600K & 12600K instead!

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⚠️ Step 1: The Golden Rules Before You Start

Because you are forcing the CPU to work harder, it will get hotter. You must have:

1. A Big CPU Cooler: You need a large air cooler or a 240mm/360mm Liquid AIO cooler. (Do not try this on a tiny stock cooler).
2. A Good Power Supply: A 750W (80+ Gold) power supply is recommended.

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⚙️ Step 2: Enter the BIOS and Enable XMP

Let's prepare the system. Restart your computer and start tapping the DEL (Delete) or F2 key on your keyboard until you enter the Motherboard BIOS.

First, look for a button that says XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) and turn it ON (Profile 1). This makes sure your RAM is running at its maximum speed. Press F7 to enter "Advanced Mode".

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🚀 Step 3: Change the CPU Speed (The Multiplier)

Now, let's make the CPU faster. Look for a tab named "OC" (on MSI) or "Ai Tweaker" (on ASUS).

1. Find the setting called CPU Core Ratio or CPU Multiplier.
2. Change the setting to "Sync All Cores" or "All Core".
3. Type in your new speed limit.
   • For the i7-10700K: Type 49 or 50 (This means 4.9 GHz or 5.0 GHz).
   • For the i7-11700K: Type 49 or 50.

(Think of this number as the speed limit on a highway. We are raising the limit so the data can travel faster!)

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⚡ Step 4: Feed It Power (CPU Voltage)

To run at this new high speed, your CPU needs more food (electricity). But if you feed it too much, it will overheat.

1. Scroll down and find CPU Core Voltage (VCore).
2. Change it from "Auto" to "Manual" or "Override Mode".
3. Type in a safe voltage. A great starting point is 1.30V to 1.35V. (Never go above 1.40V for daily use!).

Press F10 on your keyboard to Save and Exit. Your PC will now restart.

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🔥 Step 5: The Final Test (Is it safe?)

If your PC turns on and goes to Windows, great job! Now we need to test if it gets too hot.

1. Download and open a free program called HWiNFO64 to watch your "CPU Package Temp".
2. Download a free app called Cinebench R23 and run the 10-minute Multi-Core test.

The Results:

• ✅ Success: If the PC doesn't crash and the temperature stays under 85°C - 90°C, you are done! Enjoy your free performance boost.
• ❌ Crash / Blue Screen: The CPU needs slightly more power. Go back to BIOS and raise the voltage from 1.30V to 1.32V.
• ❌ Overheating (95°C+): The CPU is getting too much power. Go back to BIOS and lower the voltage, or lower the Multiplier to 49.

Overclocking your older i7 on a Z490 or Z590 motherboard is the best way to delay buying a new PC. Take it slow, keep an eye on your temperatures, and enjoy those extra frames!