AMD unlocks over 60% Ryzen CPU power boosts for two of my top-rated desktop processors with a new TDP firmware update

AMD unlocks over 60% Ryzen CPU power boosts for two of my top-rated desktop processors with a new TDP firmware update

What you need to know

  • Motherboards supporting AMD’s Ryzen 600 chipset can update their BIOS firmware to AGESA PI 1.2.0.2 and unlock 105W TDP for compatible processors.
  • AMD Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X desktop chips usually run at 65W but can be pushed to 105W without voiding their warranty.
  • Increasing the power profile of any processor will raise the thermal output, and users should install a capable CPU cooler before increasing the TDP.

As a seasoned tech analyst with over two decades of hands-on experience under my belt, I’ve seen countless processor releases and have learned to appreciate the finer details that truly set one apart from the rest. AMD’s Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X are no exception, and their recent update allowing users to push their TDP up to 105W without voiding the warranty has piqued my interest.


Approximately a month has passed since AMD launched their Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X desktop processors, touting exceptional efficiency for gamers focusing on budget and mid-range custom gaming PC constructions. Following an initial brief hold-up during launch, both chips were generally well-liked in my reviews of the 9600X and 9700X. Each received high marks in synthetic benchmarks, with single-core performance demonstrating a substantial leap ahead of competitors despite a relatively modest 65W Thermal Design Power (TDP) consumption.

With a straightforward BIOS adjustment on their Ryzen 600 Series motherboards following the AGESA PI 1.2.0.2 update, AMD consumers can now overclock their Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 7 9700X processors beyond their original power thresholds, up to a maximum of 105W. Keep in mind that this modification may raise your CPU’s temperature, so the Ryzen team advises enhancing your cooler to accommodate the additional heat output. Also, it is important to note that this adjustment won’t invalidate your warranty.

Is it safe to push your Ryzen CPU to 105W?

AMD unlocks over 60% Ryzen CPU power boosts for two of my top-rated desktop processors with a new TDP firmware update

In essence, what AMD is emphasizing in their announcement is that applying the TDP boost from 65W to 105W won’t invalidate your warranty on your device. It’s important to note that the Ryzen team has always tested these processors at the higher profile for safety. This adjustment won’t push your 9600X or 9700X beyond its safe limits, but you should be prepared to handle the increased heat with a more effective CPU cooler.

Absolutely, you can turn on the 105W TDP in your BIOS setting. However, ensure that your CPU cooling system is capable of managing the additional heat generated by this higher power consumption.

I evaluated the performance of the Ryzen 7 9700X at its default settings, utilizing an approximately $40 Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE air cooler. To handle higher power consumption when overclocking, I plan to upgrade to a robust all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooling system like the HYTE THICC Q60. For the entry-level Ryzen 5 9600X, I’ll use a powerful CPU cooler to manage the thermal increase that typically accompanies such a substantial socket power boost.

Absolutely, it is safe to enable the 105W TDP in your BIOS settings for either the Ryzen 5 9600X or Ryzen 7 9700X processors; however, ensure your CPU cooler can manage the additional heat output. High-end liquid coolers such as Corsair’s H150i Elite LCD XT can be costly, but by forgoing features like LCD pump displays and excessive RGB lighting, you can find more budget-friendly options like ARCTIC’s Liquid Freezer III, priced around $100. I plan to reinstall the 9700X on my test bench and run some tests to determine if there’s a noticeable improvement in performance.

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2024-09-30 16:09