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i7 265kf high temps

gilliamesk
Beginner
4,473 Views

After 10 years, I finally upgraded from a DDR3 system to DDR5. My 10-year-old 4790K never exceeded 75°C, but my new i7-265 hit 100°C within the first seconds of running Prime95. I enabled Intel 200S in the BIOS, thinking it was one of Intel’s warranty-covered presets. My motherboard is an MSI Z890 Gaming Plus, and I’m using 2x16GB G.Skill 6400MHz CL30 RAM.

According to HWiNFO, the Vcore constantly hovers around 1.4V. I tweaked some BIOS settings to bring it down, but as a result, the CPU frequency wouldn’t go beyond 4.1GHz. I didn’t want to mess with it too much. Even when idle, the CPU temperature sits around 50°C. I’m using a Corsair H115i Elite Capellix 280mm AIO and a Thermal Grizzly contact frame. Given all this, I’m not sure if these temps and voltages are normal.

Thanks.

 

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19 Replies
RobbieR_Intel
Moderator
4,382 Views

Hello gilliamesk,

 

I understand that transitioning from a DDR3 system to a DDR5 setup can be quite a leap, especially when encountering unexpected temperature and voltage readings. It's concerning to see your new i7-265 reaching 100°C so quickly under load, and I can imagine how frustrating it must be to deal with these issues after upgrading. Let's work together to figure out what's happening and find a solution.

 

Please answer the following questions:

  • What is your current power plan?
  • Are you currently using a cooler?
  • Did you replace or change the thermal paste?
  • Did you make recent changes to the system?
  • Was this working fine before?


I look forward to your response!

 

Best Regards,

 

Robbie R.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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gilliamesk
Beginner
4,364 Views

The power plan is set to High Performance.
I'm using the Corsair Titan 360 RX cooler with its stock thermal paste, and I've also installed a contact frame for the LGA 1851 socket.
The system has been like this since I first built it.
With my previous DDR3 system and i7-4790K, I never exceeded 70°C even with a 1.35 VCore.
Are these temperature values normal for this CPU?
Is 1.45V not too high? Or is this the default behavior for this processor?

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
4,312 Views

Hi gilliamesk,

 

Thank you for sharing this valuable information with us.

 

After reviewing our articles, I found one that best suits the issues you're experiencing.

 

Try following these steps:

  • Try setting your BIOS settings to "Intel Default Settings".

Check the thermal solution

  • When choosing a thermal solution (Fan Heatsink) for your system, you will need to consider two factors: The socket (LGA) and the TDP (wattage). There could be other factors to consider, but as a baseline you need to consider these two factors:
  1. Look up the socket (LGA) information for the Fan heatsink to make sure it is compatible with the processor's supported socket and the motherboard.
  2. Look up the Processor Base Power (previously known as TDP) on the processors' product page (ark.intel.com) and make sure that the Fan Heatsink TDP value (wattage) is equal to or higher than the Processor Base Power (previously known as TDP).

Check the thermal solution installation

  • Ensure that the CPU thermal solution being used is compatible and correct for the specific CPU. If you're using a non -Intel cooling solution, make sure that it's validated to work based on the processor’s thermal specification. Refer to product specification page.
  • Verify that any protective layer over the CPU heatsink thermal interface material (TIM) was removed.
  • Verify proper installation of the processor thermal solution. Ensure all anchors are uniformly fastened. Make sure the thermal solution is not bumping into any other components on the motherboard. For standard fan heat sink refer to Resetting Boxed Intel® Processor Fan Heatsink Push Pins.
  • For other thermal solutions such as liquid cooling solutions, refer to the vendor instructions on how to install. Note that for liquid cooling, you must ensure that the pump cable and radiator fans are plugged into appropriate board headers.
  • Make sure to apply the right amount of thermal interface material (TIM) on the processor.

Source link: Overheating Symptoms and Troubleshooting for Intel® Boxed Processors

 

Please keep me informed if there are any improvements regarding the issue.

 

Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician

 

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gilliamesk
Beginner
4,293 Views

I have followed all the steps you mentioned. Also, this is not the first time I’ve done these procedures. Without using a contact frame, temperatures would have been 10°C higher. There is no issue with the cooler or the thermal paste application.

When I undervolt the CPU—meaning the motherboard limits voltage to a maximum of 1.30V—I’m able to achieve the temperatures I want. What I’m wondering is: in order to get full performance from the processor, should I accept the 1.45V that the motherboard supplies? Even when using Intel Default Settings, it still applies 1.45V.

Is this voltage level normal for a arrow lake CPU? If not, won’t it damage the processor in the long term?

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
4,253 Views

Hi gilliamesk,


The Intel Ultra i7-265K CPU has a base voltage range that varies depending on workload and power settings.


While 1.45V may be within the motherboard's default settings, it is relatively high for sustained operation and could lead to increased power consumption, heat generation, and potential long-term degradation of the processor.

Source link: Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 265K


Intel CPUs typically use Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) to adjust voltage based on workload demands. However, excessive voltage levels can accelerate electromigration, potentially reducing the lifespan of the CPU.


To ensure optimal performance and longevity:

  • Check Intel’s official voltage specifications for the Ultra i7-265K model.
  • Monitor temperatures and stability under different workloads.
  • Consult your motherboard manufacturer for recommended voltage settings.
  • Consider fine-tuning voltage offsets in BIOS to balance performance and thermals.


If undervolting to 1.30V allows you to maintain stable temperatures while preserving performance, it may be a safer long-term

approach.


But if you believe that the CPU has been damaged due to overheating symptoms, you have the option to request an RMA process through your Place of Purchase. Alternatively, you can reach out to us for the RMA process, provided that the processor markings confirm it is still under warranty.


Let me know if you need further clarification!


Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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gilliamesk
Beginner
4,209 Views

 

Is this mobo problem? Core voltage peek 1.224v with 115w but vcore at 1.356v.  Mobo send high vcore and cannot find any solution. I tried Intel default settings and msi presets, llc, lite load. when default it peaks 1,45v. bios is latest version. 

Even with Intel’s 200s turbo enabled, Vcore reaches around 1.45V, and Intel claims this is still within warranty limits. Is this really true? On the other hand, I hear from many sources that 1.45V is considered high. So what exactly is the issue here, and where should I focus to understand the root cause?

Is the motherboard delivering such high voltages just to stay on the safe side? MSI doesn't provide a satisfying answer either. When I try to reduce the voltage, I face performance losses — and I’m concerned that I’ll feel that loss more significantly in the long run.

Why are such high Vcore values being delivered by default? Less-experienced users may unknowingly reduce the lifespan of their CPUs because of this. So who is really at fault here — motherboard manufacturers or Intel?

Also, I haven’t found any official Intel documentation that clearly states, for example, how much Vcore is safe or required for something like 5.2 GHz, or for 250W power draw. Why is there no transparent guidance from Intel about these parameters?

 

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
4,152 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


Thank you for sharing this valuable information with us. I completely understand how frustrating it can be when motherboard settings lack clear guidance.


Rest assured, I will conduct a thorough internal review and provide you with the answers you're looking for.


I will update this thread as soon as possible. In the meantime, feel free to share any additional details that might be relevant.


Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician.


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Earl_Intel
Moderator
4,092 Views

Hi gilliamesk,

 

Thank you for patiently waiting on us.

 

I have additional questions regarding to the issue:

 

About the processor voltage that you're asking about, you can check this link for your reference: VCCCORE DC Specifications - 005 - ID:832586 | Intel® Core™ Ultra 200S and 200HX Series Processors

For voltage details, navigate to Electrical Specifications > DC Specifications > Processor Power Rails DC Specifications > VCCCORE DC Specifications.

 

Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician

 

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gilliamesk
Beginner
4,046 Views

i attached the log, idle temperature is 42-55C around. In the game 60-70c, sometimes in game temperature instantly spikes from 65°C to 85°C even though power consumption and workload remain the same, then it drops back again. Perhaps I'm unable to detect sudden power changes in time. I'm monitoring my system using HWiNFO.

When I set the VCC Voltage Mode to Offset Mode in the motherboard BIOS, I can reduce the Vcore value, and by doing so, I can bring temperatures down to the levels I want. (stress test: 185w, 75-80C, %105 usage)

What I'm trying to understand is: Is it safe for the motherboard to supply 1.45V Vcore to the processor? Because after Intel's S200 turbo microcode update, I sometimes see up to 1.5V, but I don't experience any issues in games. During stress tests, power consumption can go as high as 245W, 95C-103C.

What confuses me is that the motherboard provides such a high Vcore, which leads to the CPU heating up significantly. Would it be safe to leave it this way?

On the other hand, when I lower the Vcore, power consumption (watts) also decreases and performance is affected slightly. That's not a problem for me at the moment. I just wanted to safely explore the limits of the product I purchased.

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
3,883 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


Thank you for providing this valuable information!


It will be incredibly helpful as I investigate your concern further.


Rest assured, I will conduct internal research and provide you with an update as soon as possible.


Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician.


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RandyT_Intel
Moderator
3,594 Views

Hi @gilliamesk,

 

To help us diagnose the problem effectively, we kindly ask you to collect logs during activities that you suspect cause high voltage using either HWInfo or Intel® Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU).

 

Log Collection Instructions:

 

  • HWInfo:
    • Please capture logs that include voltage, temperature, usage, and frequency for all cores, along with PL1 and PL2.
    • You can find guidance on obtaining logs with HWInfo using this link: HWInfo Log Guide.
  • Intel® Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU
    • Open XTU.
    • Click the "File logging" button to start recording and log the processor's performance.
    • Once finished, click the "File logging" button again to stop the capture.
    • Share the logs by clicking the "Folder Icon."

 

Please include any additional data you consider important. For your reference, I have attached a sample photo to illustrate the type of information we are looking for.

 

Once you have collected the logs, please share them with us so we can proceed with the analysis and provide you with a solution.

 

Thank you for your cooperation.

 

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
3,420 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


I wanted to follow up to see if you’ve had a chance to review the questions I previously sent. At your earliest convenience, please let me know so I can determine the best course of action to resolve this matter effectively.


Looking forward to your response!


Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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gilliamesk
Beginner
3,347 Views

I’ve attached the HWiNFO and XTU log files. I enabled Intel 200S from the BIOS. The cooler I'm using is the Corsair Titan 360mm RX. I ran the Prime95 Small FFTs test during the logging. When the cooler fans run at maximum speed, temperatures drop by around 5°C. As I mentioned, temperatures were higher before I installed the bracket.

I also switched the power plan to "Balanced," so the VCore no longer stays constantly high. During gaming, temperatures hover around 55–65°C, but occasionally there are brief spikes up to 80–85°C. I'm not very familiar with newer generation CPUs, so I'm not sure if this is normal.

In Cinebench tests, the CPU draws around 220W and reaches about 90°C — maybe just touches it, maybe not. I'm not sure if this is something to be concerned about. Thanks.

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Earl_Intel
Moderator
3,309 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


Thank you for providing these useful files! They will be instrumental in further investigating the issue.


I will review them internally and provide you with an update as soon as possible. Please feel free to reach out if you have any additional details that might assist in our analysis.


Looking forward to resolving this matter efficiently!


Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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VonM_Intel
Moderator
3,188 Views

Hello gilliamesk,

Thank you for your continued engagement and for sharing the HWInfo logs for review. After thoroughly analyzing the data, we did not observe any abnormalities. The thermal readings indicate that cores 13 through 17 are operating at slightly higher temperatures than the others, which can be attributed to the physical layout and design of the processor. This behavior is expected and not a cause for concern. Power consumption and core voltage levels were also within specification, with voltage readings not exceeding the typical range of 1.4 to 1.5V. Regarding your concern about core temperatures exceeding 100°C, please be assured that this is still within Intel’s thermal threshold of 105°C. That said, if you prefer a more conservative limit, some BIOS configurations do allow users to adjust the thermal ceiling down to 100°C, similar to what has been available in previous CPU generations.

While your logs show no signs of thermal or electrical anomalies, you may still consider using a contact frame if you're experimenting with build optimizations or aiming for thermal uniformity. This option remains valid and has shown benefits in some use cases.

For fine-tuning your system further, especially in terms of BIOS settings or thermal behavior, we recommend consulting your motherboard manufacturer for guidance tailored to your specific model and configuration.

Additionally, for further insight into recent architecture designs and thermal behavior, you may find the following third-party resources helpful:

Best regards,

Von M.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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Earl_Intel
Moderator
2,836 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


I wanted to check if you had the chance to review the recommendations we posted. Please let me know at your earliest convenience so that I can determine the best course of action to resolve this matter.

 

Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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Earl_Intel
Moderator
2,732 Views

Hello gilliamesk,


As we haven’t received a response, we’ll be closing this inquiry for now.


If you need further assistance in the future, please don’t hesitate to submit a new request, as this thread will no longer be actively monitored.


Thank you for your time, and we’re here if you need anything else!

 

Best regards,

Earl E.

Intel Customer Support Technician


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John_Gabriel
Beginner
254 Views

not sure if this helps on ur msi mobo 

im using a gigabyte z890 ud board with core ultra 7 265kf  
with air cooling without contact frame  (using ant esports c612)  

vcore at 1.325v vcore in bios  

and turbo power limit/twp to 250W max 

this setup helped me to keep my temps at 90ish under heavy stress test in occt on all cores 

with a frequency of 5.2ghz on max  (frequency and other ratio settings are kept at auto in bios only vcore and turbo power limit changed to mannual at 250W

John_Gabriel_0-1756616469989.png

 

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John_Gabriel
Beginner
237 Views

a bit of changes 

cpu vcore to 1.325 seemed instable and the bios automatically ran it at 1.338 max as there is no option to select 1.338 manually (it might be diff for u but it will be somewhere around 1.3v)

max tdp (mistaken spelled twp above) still set to 250w 
and turn off multi core performance enhancement to get higher frequencies on cpu i reached 2300mhz with it turned off 

the default intel settings in baseline or performance mode limits ur cpu at 125W in ur bios u should have a performance option for ur cpu  with intel defaults and the mobo's own settings 
u can use the mobo's settings a limited wattage set to 250w or lower  

try these and see if ur reaching the 5ghz + frequency 

im using cinebench r15 , r23 ,cpuz to stress and bench and occt all to check my stability ,frequency, voltages,power draw  and clockspeeds for every change i do to ensure everything is operating without any issues 

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