AMD unlocks over 60% Ryzen CPU power boosts for two of my top-rated desktop processors with a new TDP firmware update
600 Series motherboards can push the TDP of Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X chips by over 60%.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
It’s been a little over a month sinceAMD released its Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X desktop processors, promising ultra-efficiency for gamers targeting entry-level and mid-range custom gaming PC builds. After ashort initial launch delay, both chips were well received inmy 9600Xand9700X reviews. Each scored well in synthetic benchmarks, with single-core performance moving significantly ahead of its competitors despite a conservative 65WThermal Design Power (TDP)draw.
Today, AMD allows its customers to push the Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X processors above their stock TDP, up to 105W, with a simple switch in theirRyzen 600 Series motherboardBIOS after applying the latest AGESA PI 1.2.0.2 update. Applying the change won’t void your warranty, but increasing the socket power increasesCPU temperature, so the Ryzen team strongly recommends upgrading your cooler to handle the thermal increase.
Check for the new AGESA PI 1.2.0.2 BIOS with your manufacturer here:
Is it safe to push your Ryzen CPU to 105W?
The most critical part of AMD’s announcement is thatyour warranty will not become voidif you choose to apply the TDP boost from 65W to 105W. In terms of safety, the Ryzen team always tested these processors at the higher profile. You won’t be pushing your 9600X or 9700X beyond its safe limits if you apply the tweak, but you will need to accommodate the increase in heat with a more capable CPU cooler.
Yes, it is safe to activate the 105W TDP in your BIOS, providing your CPU cooler can handle the increased heat.
I tested the Ryzen 7 9700Xat stock settings with a~$40 Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SEair cooler. However, I’ll upgrade to a strong all-in-one (AIO) liquid solution like theHYTE THICC Q60before pushing for the boosted 105W TDP. It’ll be the same approach for theentry-level Ryzen 5 9600X, using a heavy-duty CPU cooler to offset the inevitable increase in thermals that comes with such a significant increase to the socket power.
So yes, it is safe to activate the 105W TDPin your BIOSfor either the Ryzen 5 9600X or Ryzen 7 9700X processors, providing your CPU cooler can handle the increased heat. Some AIO solutions likeCorsair’s H150i Elite LCD XTcan run up the cost, but if you skip the luxurious extras like LCD pump screens and excessive RGB lighting, you can find more affordable alternatives likeARCTIC’s ~$100 Liquid Freezer III. I’ll soon re-install the 9700X back into my test bench and run some tests to see if there’s a significant performance increase.
🎃The best early Black Friday deals🦃
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Ben is a Senior Editor at Windows Central, covering everything related to technology hardware and software. He regularly goes hands-on with the latest Windows laptops, components inside custom gaming desktops, and any accessory compatible with PC and Xbox. His lifelong obsession with dismantling gadgets to see how they work led him to pursue a career in tech-centric journalism after a decade of experience in electronics retail and tech support.
