Undervolting your GPU can improve its cooling and efficiency without sacrificing performance. This process reduces the voltage your graphics card uses, which helps lower temperatures and power consumption. Many gamers and PC enthusiasts use undervolting to make their systems quieter and cooler.
If you want to extend your GPU’s lifespan or prevent overheating during intense sessions, undervolting is a great option. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step on Windows 11, making it easy even if you’re new to tweaking hardware settings.
By following these instructions carefully, you can safely undervolt your GPU and enjoy a smoother, cooler experience. Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the detailed steps.
This guide covers basic undervolting techniques using commonly available software tools, with tips to troubleshoot and optimize your settings.
Quick Note: What You Need Before Starting
- Windows 11 PC with a dedicated GPU: This guide is for discrete graphics cards, not integrated GPUs.
- GPU monitoring software: Tools like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to keep an eye on temperatures and clocks.
- Undervolting utility: Most users prefer MSI Afterburner because it’s user-friendly and widely compatible.
- Patience and caution: Undervolting affects hardware behavior, so proceed slowly and test stability after each change.
Step 1: Install MSI Afterburner
MSI Afterburner is a free and trusted tool for controlling GPU settings. It lets you adjust voltage, clock speeds, and fan profiles easily.
- Go to the official MSI Afterburner website and download the latest version.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete installation.
- Once installed, launch MSI Afterburner. You’ll see sliders for core voltage, power limit, core clock, and memory clock.
Why this step matters: Without a proper tool like MSI Afterburner, you cannot safely adjust your GPU’s voltage. This program provides a user-friendly interface and real-time monitoring.
Step 2: Monitor Your GPU’s Current Performance
Before making changes, it’s important to understand your GPU’s baseline temperature and clock speeds.
- Open MSI Afterburner and look at the current GPU temperature and clock speeds.
- Run a simple benchmark or game for 10-15 minutes to see the typical temperature and voltage under load.
- Note these values for reference.
Why check baseline values? You want to make sure your undervolting doesn’t cause instability or unusual temperature spikes later.
Step 3: Access the Voltage/Frequency Curve Editor
MSI Afterburner includes a voltage/frequency curve editor that allows you to map the voltage to GPU clock speeds.
- Open MSI Afterburner.
- Press
Ctrl + Fto open the voltage/frequency curve editor. - You will see a graph with voltage on the horizontal axis and clock speeds on the vertical axis.
This tool lets you manually adjust the voltage at which your GPU runs at certain frequencies, which is the core of undervolting.
Step 4: Adjust the Voltage Curve for Undervolting
Now you will lower the voltage at which your GPU operates without reducing the clock speed.
- Find the voltage point where your GPU usually operates under load (usually around 900-1050 mV).
- Click and drag the corresponding frequency point down to a lower voltage (for example, reduce from 1000 mV to 900 mV).
- Make sure the curve stays smooth and does not jump sharply, as sudden changes can cause instability.
- Click “Apply” to save the changes.
Important: Move in small steps — lowering voltage too much can cause crashes or graphical glitches.
Step 5: Test Stability After Undervolting
After applying the new voltage curve, you must verify that your GPU remains stable.
- Run a demanding game or benchmarking tool for at least 15-30 minutes.
- Watch for crashes, stuttering, or graphical artifacts.
- Monitor GPU temperature and clock speeds using MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor.
- If you experience instability, return to the curve editor and increase voltage slightly, then test again.
Repeat this process until you find the lowest stable voltage without performance loss.
Step 6: Save Your Undervolting Profile
Once you find a stable undervolted setting, save it for easy access.
- In MSI Afterburner, click the “Save” icon.
- Choose a profile slot (1 to 5) for your undervolted settings.
- Click the “Apply” button to load this profile whenever you start your PC.
- Optionally, enable “Start with Windows” for MSI Afterburner and auto-apply the profile on boot.
Alternative Methods and Advanced Options
Some advanced users prefer using manufacturer-specific tools such as AMD Radeon Software or NVIDIA Inspector for undervolting. These programs may provide more direct control over voltage and clock settings.
Additionally, you can adjust fan curves to optimize cooling further. Slower fans reduce noise, but ensure temperatures stay safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is undervolting safe for my GPU?
Yes, undervolting is generally safe when done carefully. It reduces voltage, which lowers heat and power consumption, often extending hardware lifespan. Always test stability after changes.
Will undervolting reduce my GPU’s performance?
If done properly, undervolting does not reduce performance. It keeps clock speeds the same but lowers voltage, improving efficiency.
Can I undervolt any GPU?
Most modern GPUs support undervolting, but the degree of success varies by model and manufacturer. Integrated GPUs typically do not support undervolting.
What should I do if my PC crashes after undervolting?
Increase the voltage slightly or revert to default settings in MSI Afterburner. Always make small adjustments and test thoroughly.
Do I need to undervolt every time I start my PC?
If you save and apply your undervolting profile in MSI Afterburner and configure it to start with Windows, the settings will apply automatically.
When Nothing Works
If you cannot find a stable undervolting setting or your GPU behaves unpredictably, consider these options:
- Reset MSI Afterburner settings to default and update your GPU drivers.
- Visit your GPU manufacturer’s official forums or support pages for model-specific advice.
- Use official software like AMD Radeon Software or NVIDIA Control Panel for safer tweaks.
- If overheating persists, check your PC’s physical cooling system—clean dust, improve airflow, or upgrade fans.
Conclusion
Undervolting your GPU on Windows 11 is a practical way to improve cooling and reduce power consumption without losing performance. By using MSI Afterburner, carefully adjusting the voltage/frequency curve, and testing for stability, you can achieve a cooler, quieter system.
Remember to proceed slowly and save your settings for easy use. Undervolting is not just for experts—it’s accessible to anyone willing to follow simple steps and monitor their hardware.
With patience and care, you’ll enjoy better GPU performance and a more comfortable PC experience.