Intel’s recent statement reveals that its microcode patches addressing a voltage issue in 13th- and 14th-gen Core processors have been tested with minimal performance impact. The company claims that any performance degradation is insignificant and falls within normal variations observed during testing. Exceptions exist in certain tests, but overall, the patch does not noticeably affect the performance of most applications.
Unlike the previous “Downfall” bug fix for earlier Core processors, which could reduce performance by up to 40%, Intel asserts that the current patch does not have such drastic effects. Testing results show that performance impacts are largely negligible and within normal run-to-run variations. Specific sub-tests and gaming benchmarks exhibit some moderate impacts, but these are limited to a few cases.
Intel’s New Microcode Patches for 13th- and 14th-Gen CPUs Show Minimal Performance Impact
Intel has confirmed that the new microcode patches will not hinder overclocking capabilities for the 13th and 14th Gen processors. Users can still overclock their systems, although Intel warns that this might void their warranty. The microcode update (0x129) allows users to disable the Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost (eTVB) setting in BIOS to maintain overclocking beyond the standard voltage threshold.
The voltage issue, which has caused system instability and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, stems from a faulty microcode that led to elevated operating voltages. Intel’s update aims to cap voltage requests above 1.55V to prevent further instability. The company continues to investigate additional solutions for what it describes as a “Vmin shift,” affecting Core chips, and plans to provide more updates by the end of August.
Intel’s patches are being rolled out in stages, including a default settings option and two microcode updates, with the latest (0x129) now available. This update will not be distributed via Windows Update but can be obtained from motherboard or PC makers. Affected Core desktop processors are listed by Intel, though mobile chips are not impacted.
