CPU Generates Insane Amounts of Heat; Undervolting is locked

[km19844]

I bought an HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop 15-dk1514TX in October 2021 (i5-10300h, gtx 1650 ti, 16 gb RAM). From the very beginning, I noticed CPU temps skyrocketing to the high 90s while playing games like Witcher 3 and AC Origins. I started reading up about this issue and found that the i5-10300h processor is a massive power hog and generates huge amounts of heat. The GPU stays fine at around 70 degrees.

After a while I decided to try undervolting. Initially, all the undervolting settings in Throttlestop were locked, which led me to research a bit further about this issue. I found out that changing the values of a few BIOS variables unlocks these options. I did the same using this guide (https://www.reddit.com/r/Hewlett_Packard/comments/o1zxuv/howto_unlock_undervolting_change_timings_on...), and everything started to go smoothly. I could run games with graphics levels set to high easily while my CPU Temps never went beyond 85.

Recently I had to upgrade to Windows 11 from the pre-installed Windows 10 because I was facing some issues, and the system did a mandatory BIOS update along with the OS update. As expected, the undervolting settings got locked again. But this time, when I tried to change the values of the BIOS variables (using the same guide), I was not allowed to write new values. My CPU temps are back to the high 90s and my games suffer performance drops because of thermal throttling.

I tried rolling back to the previous BIOS using a USB stick, but to no avail. It seems that the Windows + B key on my laptop doesn't do anything. I tried with Windows + V key as well, but all I got back was the CMOS being reset.

I've tried lowering the maximum processor state setting on windows, but changing it means I'm losing all the extra power that intel turbo boost provides.

Is there a way out?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @km19844,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your laptop!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Since rolling back the BIOS didn't work, your options are limited, but here are a few things you can try:

Disable Turbo Boost (Alternative to Undervolting)
If undervolting is completely blocked, disabling Turbo Boost can help control temperatures:

Open Control Panel → Power Options

Select your active power plan → Change advanced power settings

Go to Processor Power Management → Maximum Processor State

Set 99% for both battery and plugged-in.

This prevents the CPU from boosting and keeps temps lower at the cost of some performance.

Repaste the CPU & Improve Cooling
Since you own a gaming laptop, repasting the CPU with high-quality thermal paste (like Arctic MX-6 or Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut) and cleaning dust from vents can reduce temperatures by 5-10°C.

You can also use a cooling pad to improve airflow.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

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Best regards,