What does it mean to have an unlocked CPU?

In an unlocked processor, you can change the clock settings of the cpu which means that you can overclock it. At cpus without the k at the end of its name you are unable to change the cpu settings.

Why would you lock your CPU?

A CPU lock or CPU locking is the process of locking down a CPU’s clock multiplier, either permanently or until the lock is removed. The main purpose of this is to prevent users from overclocking the CPUs, making them operate in conditions that they were not designed for, and then possibly damaging them.

What is Intel Core unlocked?

Unlocked Intel® Core™ processors let you overclock the CPU for even more gaming power and performance.

Which is better unlocked or locked CPU?

What is the difference between a locked CPU and an unlocked CPU? An unlocked CPU comes with an unlocked clock multiplier, meaning that it can be overclocked quickly and easily. A locked CPU cannot be overclocked this way and can only be overclocked via BCLK overclocking.

Are all Ryzen CPUs unlocked?

All Ryzen CPUs will be multiplier unlocked and ready for overclocking right out of the box. There will be no locked Ryzen CPUs. AMD’s X370, X300 and even mid-range B350 chipsets support overclocking.

Can you unlock CPUs?

No you cannot “unlock” processors. There are some Z170 motherboards that will allow you to overclock the processor using BCLK overclocking, but it often requires the use of an old BIOS.

Should I buy unlocked CPU?

Well, if you feel like you could really benefit from the performance boost, i.e., if you intend on using CPU-intensive professional software in addition to gaming, or if you simply have money to spare and want to build a high-quality, future-proof gaming PC, then an unlocked CPU would be worth it.

Which Ryzen CPUs are overclockable?

AMD supports overclocking on all of its Ryzen CPUs but not every motherboard does. The following motherboard chipsets support overclocking: X570, B550, B550A, X470, B450, X370, X300, B350. Check out the best AMD motherboards for our recommendations if you need to pick one up. A decent CPU cooler.