Do I definitely need a stronger cooler? What happens if I don't?

[hasselblad]

I have a i7 Intel i7 3770k 3.5. I would like to overclock it. Do I definitely need a stronger cooler? What happens if I don't have it? Will the CPU slower or the heat will damage my CPU?

I am sorry for the simple question!

 

[redduc900]

You should be able to hit anywhere between 4.4-4.6GHz on the stock cooler, a 4.5GHz clock requiring in the neighborhood of 1.25-1.28V, w/ core temp's still remaining at a reasonable level depending on the case / ambient temp.

 

[Knufire]

You can overclock, just watch your temperatures. At 105C, the CPU will downclock itself to prevent heat damage. You want to stay 10-15C away from that point at full (Prime95) load.

 

[hasselblad]

Guys, you are all AWESOME!!!

Do I pull it up in BIOS?

 

[Knufire]

BIOS to overclock.

To stress test, you have to boot into Windows. Use Prime95 to apply a full load to your CPU and RealTemp to monitor your temperatures.

 

[Bobnova]

My 3770k overheats at 4.3GHz on the stock cooler, 4.2 is doable though.

 

[hasselblad]

BIOS to overclock.

To stress test, you have to boot into Windows. Use Prime95 to apply a full load to your CPU and RealTemp to monitor your temperatures.

Awesome! This is what I needed! Thanks!

 

[hasselblad]

My 3770k overheats at 4.3GHz on the stock cooler, 4.2 is doable though.

Perfect, I won't go over 4.2!

 

[Bobnova]

Your limits will vary. Some people have been able to go higher. Others won't do >4GHz on the stock cooler.