overclock

4 synonyms and 2 antonyms for overclock, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To make a processor, graphics chip or memory run faster than the speed its manufacturer rated it for, usually by changing settings in a computer's firmware or a tuning program.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

tune push

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

clock up

Synonyms by Meaning

1. verb

To make a processor, graphics chip or memory run faster than the speed its manufacturer rated it for, usually by changing settings in a computer's firmware or a tuning program.

“He overclocked the memory and the machine stopped booting.”

tune push clock up

Opposites

underclock downclock

2. noun

The higher-than-rated speed a component has been set to run at, or the act of setting it.

“The overclock held steady for an hour before the temperature climbed.”

OC tune

How to use overclock

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

overclock the CPU stable overclock overclocking headroom factory overclocked

Common among enthusiasts and in hardware reviews. Overclocking is the usual noun for the practice.

Etymology

From over- plus clock, referring to the clock speed at which a chip is rated to run.

Full origin of overclock →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between overclocking and undervolting?

Overclocking raises the speed a chip runs at, which usually increases its heat and power draw. Undervolting lowers the voltage supplied to it, aiming for the same speed with less heat. They are sometimes done together, since a cooler chip can hold higher speeds.

Does overclocking void a warranty?

That depends entirely on the manufacturer and the market. Some sell chips explicitly designed to be overclocked, others treat it as out-of-specification use. Terms vary by company and by country, so the wording of the particular warranty is what decides it.

What is a boost clock?

A boost clock is a higher speed the manufacturer itself allows the chip to reach automatically when temperature and power headroom permit. Because it is within the official specification, it is not overclocking.

People also searched

push tune OC downclock underclock

Nearby words

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