How to undervolt a laptop safely (Windows)

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for undervolting laptops on Windows.

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Undervolting a laptop safely on Windows involves reducing the voltage supplied to the CPU and GPU, which can lead to lower temperatures and improved battery life. This process can be accomplished through various methods, including BIOS settings and software tools like Intel XTU or ThrottleStop.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the undervolting process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

•A compatible laptop with an Intel or AMD processor that supports undervolting.
•Administrator access to install necessary software and make system changes.
•Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) or ThrottleStop software installed.
•Backup important data to prevent loss in case of system instability.

Method 1: Using Intel XTU

Intel XTU is a powerful tool for Intel processors that allows users to adjust voltage settings easily.

•Step 1: Download Intel XTU from the official Intel website and install it.
•Step 2: Open Intel XTU by searching for it in the Start menu.
•Step 3: In the main window, locate the 'Core' section and find the 'Core Voltage Offset' slider.
•Step 4: Move the slider to the left to decrease the voltage (start with -0.05V) and click 'Apply'.
•Step 5: Monitor system stability using the 'Stress Test' feature in XTU.
•Step 6: If stable, gradually decrease the voltage further until you find the lowest stable setting.
•Step 7: To verify it worked, check CPU temperatures using HWMonitor or similar software.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps may involve additional permissions.

•Ensure that Windows 11 is updated to the latest version for compatibility with Intel XTU.
•Right-click on the Start button and select 'Settings', then navigate to 'Privacy & security' > 'Windows Security' > 'Device security' to check for any security settings that may block XTU.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users may need to disable certain security features.

•Open 'Control Panel' and navigate to 'System and Security' > 'Windows Defender Firewall'.
•Click on 'Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off' and disable it temporarily if XTU does not launch.

Method 2: Using ThrottleStop

ThrottleStop is another tool that allows for undervolting and provides additional features for performance tuning.

•Step 1: Download ThrottleStop from the official website and extract the files.
•Step 2: Run ThrottleStop.exe as an administrator.
•Step 3: In the main window, locate the 'FIVR' button and click it to access voltage settings.
•Step 4: Check the 'Unlock Adjustable Voltage' box and adjust the 'CPU Core Voltage Offset' to a lower value (start with -0.05V).
•Step 5: Click 'Apply' and then 'OK' to save changes.
•Step 6: Use the 'Stress Test' feature to check for stability.
•Step 7: Monitor temperatures with HWMonitor to confirm the undervolt is effective.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while undervolting, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'System instability detected' - Solution: Increase the voltage offset slightly and retest.
•Issue: 'Software crashes or freezes' - Fix: Revert to the previous voltage settings and run a stability test.
•Problem: 'High temperatures persist' - Workaround: Ensure proper cooling, clean vents, and consider repasting the CPU/GPU.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For experienced users, here are some advanced tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + Esc - Opens Task Manager for monitoring CPU usage.
•Command line: 'wmic cpu get loadpercentage' - Displays current CPU load percentage.
•Hidden feature: ThrottleStop's 'Turbo Boost' feature - Access it to control turbo behavior for better performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, always monitor system stability after each adjustment to ensure optimal performance without crashes.