There are a few things you can do or observe to lower the heat levels of your GPU, especially when you are gaming. Here are a few things you can practice or when to lower your temperature.
Disable any overclocking you set with your system.
Overclocking makes your GPU run at a higher speed, consuming more power and producing more heat. If your system runs stable, it should be fine. Otherwise, disable any overclocking settings.
Control Fan Speed
Modern video cards come with monitoring software where you can adjust the fan’s speed. Find out your video card’s make and model and download the correct software from the official website.
Set your Graphics Card to Low-Power Mode
Undervolting is when you set your GPU at a low-power mode. In effect, you will experience lower performance and speed. But it may stabilize and lower the temperature.
Clean the Graphics Card Using Compressed Air
If you have been using your GPU for a few years, it is likely dirty. Using compressed air, you can clean it safely and with precision. Make sure your system is off and unplugged.
What Causes High Temperatures?
There are several reasons why your GPU temperatures are over the normal range. Below are some of the common reasons.
Let’s take a look at some o f these things:
- Poor cable management
- Dust buildup
- Lack of cooling fans
Cable Management is Poor
In earlier times, cable management does not exist. It may be because components back then are not as demanding as they are now.
It is vital to fix your cable for maximum airflow and efficiency now. If air is blocked or does not flow well inside the case, it will impact your system’s operating temperatures. It gets worst during the summertime when the ambient air is naturally warm.
Regardless you are building a budget or a high-end rig, always properly do your cable management. If you do it right, you will see an improvement in your system’s performance.
Dust Buildup
In all honesty, how often do you check and clean your system? It is unlikely you have, leading to dust building up all over your PC, contributing to one of the major causes of high heat levels.
If you do not clean it, dust will accumulate in your components. When it becomes too thick, it will affect the airflow. It leads to inefficient internal cooling. Dust buildup can be annoying and tedious to clean as you can find it everywhere, even at the tightest parts.
Using compressed air is the best, easiest solution to address this issue. A vacuum may be able to reach some parts. For hard-to-reach places, use compressed air. Before cleaning, bring your case outside or in an open space.
Lack of Cooling Fans or Poor Airflow
Improving your overall airflow system is the easiest way to address high heat levels.
Have at least one outtake and one intake fan to promote a natural flow throughout your chassis as you set up your airflow system. You can add more fans as desired, depending on the capacity. In most cases, intake fans are in front. Outtake fans are at the back and on top.
The Surroundings are Humid
The ambient temperature is an important area when dealing with heat. Maybe you live in a tropical country and get sunny, warm days throughout the year. Your GPU will run hotter than those living in colder countries.
You cannot change ambient temperature easily. The best you can do is position your setup in an air-conditioned environment. You can also invest in a water-cooling system for your CPU and GPU.
Apply New Thermal Paste
You can find the thermal paste between your cooling system and your CPU and GPU. We recommend changing it at least once every six months to get the best performance. If unsure, consult an expert or bring your PC to the nearest service center. Incorrect applications may cause you problems.
Here’s the absolutely best thermal paste for your needs.
| Name | ARCTIC MX-4 |
| Continuous Use Temperature | -50~150 ℃ |
| Item Weight | 0.141 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 1.2 x 2.8 x 5.9 inches |
| Viscosity | 870 Poise |
Pros
- ARCTIC is a trusted name.
- It’s the trusted standard in the thermal paste category.
- Superior performance compared to other products.
Cons
- Some people did not receive the spatula.
- You can take other measures also to lower the temperature.
[amazon box=”B0795DP124″ title=”Amazing thermal paste” description=”This is the thermal paste you want.”]
Overclocking
Overclocking will boost your GPU and CPU performance, but it can increase your internal temperatures. Overclocking pushes the components to their limits, resulting in higher heat levels.
Some models have a built-in overclocking profile, pushing the unit automatically to its limits. The user has an option to override via the BIOS.
Best Coolers
Nvidia and AMD have long been at the forefront of manufacturing graphics cards, with the former dominating the market. In recent years, AMD has caught up. However, the cooling system that comes out of the box doesn’t always work well. These manufacturers need to introduce a more efficient cooling system to reduce heat levels.
Until then, third-party GPU coolers are the way to go for your cooling needs. The maximum temperature we recommend is 95 C. Any value beyond this may cause long-term, permanent damage to your unit. The most optimal gaming temperature is 85 C, even if some manufacturers rate it higher.
The Kraken X53 RGB 240mm and NZXT Kraken G12 are the most recommended coolers. We will go over these items more in the following section.
NZXT Kraken X53 RGB
If you are an enthusiast, you might have already heard of NZXT. It is popular for its all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooling systems. The Kraken AIO has three series – Z, X, and M. If on a budget, the M series is for you. For performance and an affordable price, the X series is for you. The Z series is its premium lineup, featuring exceptional cooling performance.
Check it out below.
The Kraken X53 RGB belongs to the X series. It comes with a 7th generation Asetek pump and dual RGB fans. It works well with AMD or Intel processors but is pricier than its competition. The X53 has the smallest radiator among the X series. It should handle up to an AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7 processor. The 240mm radiator should be enough to handle a high-end PC build. If you want to overclock, we do not recommend the X53.
You will get the following items in the package:
- Radiator and pump
- Mounting brackets
- Two P120 fans with RGB
- Other small accessories and wirings
The RGB lights are managed through CAM software. You can find them in the two fans. There are several lighting effects choices. Copper and plastic make up the CPU block and pump, while aluminum for the radiator. The 7th generation Asetek pump is inside the CPU block, allowing a much more efficient cooling at minimal noise.
Consider buying the NZXT Kraken X53 to overclock your CPU (low to mid-tier) and CPU that runs cooler. You should not buy it if your case does not support a 2400 radiator or struggle with airflow. Maybe you don’t want direct control over the fans and do not want to use the CAM software. If so, look for a different option.
| Name | NZXT Kraken X53 RGB 240mm |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 12.09 x 8.35 x 5.39 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.97 pounds |
| Noise Level | 33 dB |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
Pros
- 7th-gen Asetek pump
- 240 radiator has great performance
- The LCD screen on the CPU block
Cons
- A little bit pricier than its competition
- No direct control over the fans
[amazon box=”B08MB5WDB2″ title=”NZXT Kraken X53 ” description=”Impressive liquid cooler that will help your system.”]
NZXT Kraken G12
The NZXT Kraken G12 promises a 40% increase in cooling performance over the stock cooler. Inside the box, you will find an installation guide. There is also the cooler, mounting screws, brackets, and radiator.
Here’s the NZXT Kraken G12.
In terms of aesthetics, there is not much to see. The panel has two large holes for mounting a 92mm fan. The NZXT logo is stenciled on the bracket’s opposite side and has ventilation holes. It could be an issue for those who do not like to have warm air dumping back into the case.
Installing the G12 is easy. The instruction guide comes with a 10-step manual that is effective. We recommend downloading it from NZXT’s website for the most updated version.
| Name | NZXT Kraken G12 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 7.9 x 1.26 x 4.45 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.8 ounces |
| Noise Level | 38 dB |
| Wattage | 1.8 watts |
Pros
- Effective and simple design
- The official instruction guide provides enough details for an easy installation.
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Some issues with the VRM temperatures for prolonged usage
[amazon box=”B06ZYHRMYP” title=”NZXT Kraken G12″ description=”Great, budget option to get the most out of your setup.”]
