Overclocking vs factory performance – is one better for gaming? In this blog post, we’re taking a deep dive into overclocking and factory performance, highlighting what they mean, their key differences, and whether or not one truly is better for your gaming PC.
What is Overclocking?
Overclocking is where you increase the clock rate and voltage of your hardware. This tweaks forces the hardware to run faster than intended. You can overclock a CPU and/or GPU to help boost your performance where you need it most, without having to splash out on a hefty and costly upgrade.
However, overclocking results in higher temperatures, increases your PC’s power requirements, and may even void your hardware’s warranty. Therefore, before you do overclock any component, be sure to check your warranty and ensures your cooling system can keep up with any temperature spikes.
How Does Overclocking Compare to Factory Performance?
Alternatively, factory performance does exactly what it says on the box. Keeping your gaming PC at factory settings doesn’t mean you have to compromise on performance. Your hardware will simply run as intended by the manufacturer at the recommended speed.
Unless you manually adjust the settings for your hardware in your PC’s BIOS, or overclock any components, you won’t receive any additional boost in performance or speed.
To better showcase the differences between overclocking and factory performance, we’ve compared all the pros and cons down below.
Overclocking Pros and Cons
Pros
- Can help to boost your in-game performance
- Can help to increase the lifespan of older hardware since it removes the need to purchase an upgrade straight away.
Cons
- May void your hardware warranty. It’s vital you check if it’s covered by the manufacturer.
- Can result in high temperatures and power consumption.
- May impact the stability of your PC.
Factory Performance Pros and Cons
Pros
- No chance of a temperature spike or stability issues.
- Doesn’t void any hardware warranties.
Cons
- No extra boost in performance or speed.
Overclocking vs Factory Performance – Which is Best for Gaming?
Overclocking vs factory performance – is one better for gaming?
All your hardware has been primed for gaming, whether you opt to overclock or keep it running at factory settings. Overclocking is great for enthusiasts who want to squeeze every drop of performance out of their components or even for those who may have noticed a slight drop in their speeds.
However, overclocking isn’t for everyone. Beginners or casual gamers who don’t require that extra boost can enjoy plenty of high-quality action, even with their hardware running on factory performance.
Looking to Upgrade Your Performance?
Have you tried overclocking your components to no avail? Are the factory settings not delivering the fast high-res gameplay you desire? Whatever the case, it might be time to wave goodbye to your old PC and spoil yourself with a brand-new shiny system.
At Overclockers UK, you can find a whole host of pre-built and configurable gaming PCs that come packed with all the hardware you need to enjoy your favourite games. We’ve got our top pick for you below, but if this PC doesn’t suit your needs or aesthetic, check out the full range instead.
8Pack ABS Extreme Gaming PC
- Extreme gaming PC
- Designed by 8Pack
- All black system
- Comes with an overclocked i9 14900K CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4090
- 64GB DDR5 RAM
- Custom water-cooling loop
Overclocking vs Factory Performance – What Are Your Thoughts?
Which one did you go for? Do you prefer the additional boost overclocking brings? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
*Prices correct at time of writing and PC specs are subject to change.
- 4 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
Read More >>