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What is CPU Boost
CPU Boost is a feature that allows a computer's processor (CPU) to run faster than its normal speed for short periods of time. This is done to improve performance when the computer needs to do something demanding, like playing a game or running a complex program.
Think of it like a car's turbocharger. Normally, the car runs at a certain speed, but when you need extra power, the turbocharger kicks in and gives the car a temporary boost of speed. CPU Boost works in a similar way, giving the computer a temporary boost of power when it needs it.
Read also: Disable CPU Boost without entering BIOS
Common CPU boost technologies (excluding smartphones and tablets):
- Intel Turbo Boost
- AMD Turbo Core or Precision Boost (depending on the specific CPU model)
Comparison of CPU boost enabled vs disabled
CPU Boost Enabled:
Pros:
- Improved performance in demanding tasks, such as gaming, video editing, and scientific simulations
- Enhanced responsiveness and snappier system performance
- Can be beneficial for applications that rely heavily on single-threaded performance, because these applications need the CPU to work quickly, and CPU boost can make the CPU work even faster.
For multi-threaded applications, the difference is that they don't rely as heavily on the CPU to work quickly in a single sequence. Instead, they can use multiple cores to do many things at the same time.
Think of it like a team of workers:
- Single-threaded applications are like a single worker doing a task from start to finish.
- Multi-threaded applications are like a team of workers doing different parts of the task at the same time.
So, for multi-threaded applications, the CPU boost is not as crucial, because the application is already using multiple cores to do different things.
Cons:
- Increased power consumption, which can lead to higher temperatures and reduced battery life in laptops
- Potential for increased noise from the cooling system
- May cause system instability or crashes. Overclocked systems might not be stable with CPU boost enabled.
CPU Boost Disabled:
Pros:
- Reduced power consumption, which can lead to lower temperatures and longer battery life in laptops
- Lower noise levels from the cooling system
- Maintains a constant CPU speed, which can help prevent system instability or crashes.
Cons:
- Potential performance decrease in demanding tasks, such as gaming, video editing, and scientific simulations
- May result in slower system responsiveness and performance
- Can be detrimental to applications that rely heavily on single-threaded performance
The effect of CPU boost on performance and power use can be different depending on the CPU, system, and what you're doing. Some systems might not see a big difference, while others might see a big improvement.
In short, turning on CPU boost makes your computer faster but can use more power and generate heat. Turning it off saves power and keeps things cool but makes your computer slower.