Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Usually, no—not unless a power limit is actually making your CPU slow down during the game. Raising Intel’s PL1 or PL2 can help if the processor is hitting that limit and reducing its frequency, but it will not fix a GPU bottleneck, thermal throttling, a current limit, or inadequate motherboard power delivery. Published gaming results show that some tested games use considerably less CPU power than the limits in place, leaving little or no performance to gain by raising them.
What PL1, PL2, and Tau control
PL1 and PL2 are power-control thresholds that influence Intel Turbo Boost behavior; they are not direct frame-rate settings. Intel defines PL1 as an average-power threshold, PL2 as a threshold for rapid power limiting, and Tau as the averaging constant used in PL1’s weighted power calculation. Together, they help configure Turbo Boost to suit a platform’s power delivery and thermal solution.
Intel’s 12th-generation desktop processor datasheet describes the purpose this way: “The package power control settings of PL1, PL2, PL3, PL4, and Tau allow the designer to configure Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 to match the platform power delivery and package thermal solution limitations.” The exact behavior and appropriate values depend on the processor generation and platform. Intel recommends setting PL1 equal to Processor Base Power and says PL1 should not exceed the cooling solution’s limits; check the datasheet for your specific CPU rather than applying a value from another generation.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
When a CPU encounters a power limit, it may reduce frequency to stay within that limit. Raising a relevant limit can therefore allow higher frequency under a workload that would otherwise be constrained. But gaming performance changes only if that frequency constraint was affecting the game’s frame rate or frame times. A larger PL1 or PL2 number, by itself, does not guarantee higher FPS.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
What gaming measurements show
Published results support a conditional answer rather than a universal FPS estimate. They also show why the game, frame cap, processor, and test setup matter: a CPU can draw substantially different power in a capped run and an uncapped one, and one processor’s result does not predict every system.
| Test | Reported result | What it establishes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i5-13600K in Cyberpunk 2077, PC Invasion review (2022) | 56.2 W average and 71.7 W peak at a locked 60 FPS; 96.6 W average and 107.6 W peak in an uncapped run averaging 187.5 FPS. Across the review’s gaming and multitasking session, the maximum measured was 138.8 W, below the 181 W limit cited by the review. | Power use differed between two frame-rate conditions, and the review’s measured maximum remained below its cited limit. This was one CPU and test setup, not a rule for all games or Intel processors. |
| Alder Lake gaming comparison, ComputerBase (2021) | Game power averages were almost always below 125 W. The tested games showed no performance impact from removing the limits being compared, including when the tested Core i9 was held at 125 W. | This is a direct gaming comparison for the tested Alder Lake CPUs, not an FPS figure or a result that can be generalized to every generation. The review page is in German. |
| Core i5-13600K sustained all-core testing, TechSpot | A 181 W PL1/PL2 profile reduced sustained P-core frequency and temperature in long-duration testing. | Power limits can affect sustained all-core workloads. This is productivity-workload context, not evidence of a gaming FPS gain. |
The PC Invasion measurements are particularly useful as context, but they are not a controlled before-and-after FPS test of different power limits. Likewise, ComputerBase’s no-impact result applies to the games and Alder Lake configurations it tested. Neither source supports promising a generic percentage uplift from raising limits on a current Intel gaming PC.
When raising the limits can help
A change is worth investigating when all of the following are true: the game is making meaningful use of the CPU; monitoring shows the CPU reaching an active PL1 or PL2 limit; frequency or frame-time behavior changes while that limit is active; and temperature, current, and motherboard power delivery are not the actual constraints. Even then, the result must be verified in the game you care about.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Intel’s XTU guide says power-limit throttling means the CPU reduces frequency to remain within PL1 or PL2. Its guidance is to increase limits only when cooling and power delivery are adequate: “The XTU slider allows the user to increase the power limit to prevent this throttling, provided your system cooling and power delivery are adequate.” This describes a possible remedy for a specific cause of throttling, not a recommendation to remove limits on every system.
How to test your own PC
Use the game and settings that matter to you. A synthetic benchmark can help characterize a processor, but it cannot establish that changing a power limit improves your actual game. Keep the test conditions consistent so that any change is interpretable.
- Record the configuration. Note the CPU model, motherboard and BIOS version, GPU, cooler, game, resolution, graphics settings, frame cap, and the current PL1, PL2, and Tau values if available. Motherboard automatic profiles can use different values, so record what the system is actually applying instead of assuming that “stock” has one meaning.
- Establish a repeatable baseline. Run the same game scene or built-in benchmark several times with the same settings. Record average FPS and 1% lows, along with CPU package power, CPU frequency, temperature, and any reported power-limit or thermal-throttling indicators. Keep background activity as consistent as practical.
- Identify the active constraint. Check whether the power-limit indicator coincides with a reduction in CPU frequency or worse frame-time behavior. Also check for thermal or current throttling and signs that motherboard power delivery is limiting the system. A power-limit flag alone does not show that lifting it will improve FPS; the limit must be affecting the workload’s performance.
- Change one value modestly. If the evidence points to PL1 or PL2 as the active constraint, adjust one relevant setting at a time using the motherboard’s BIOS or a supported tuning utility. Do not copy another CPU’s limits or assume that setting PL1 equal to PL2 is automatically beneficial. Re-run the same game test after each change.
- Compare more than the average. Compare average FPS and 1% lows with the baseline, then check package power, frequency, temperature, and throttling indicators. A change that raises power or temperature without a repeatable improvement in the game has not demonstrated a gaming benefit.
- Restore the previous values if needed. If temperatures become excessive, the system becomes unstable, or performance does not improve, return to the recorded BIOS or utility settings. If you changed settings in software, use that utility’s controls to restore them; if you changed BIOS values, restore the prior values or the board’s default profile.
How to interpret the result
Power stays below the active limits
If package power during the game remains well below PL1 and PL2, those limits are not the evident constraint in that test. Raising them is unlikely to improve FPS. Investigate the actual bottleneck instead: the GPU, game-engine behavior, temperature, or another CPU limit. The 13600K and Alder Lake results above illustrate that gaming power can remain below configured limits, but your own telemetry is the relevant evidence for your machine.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
The CPU reaches a power limit, but FPS does not change
That result suggests the limit may be affecting CPU behavior without materially affecting the game’s measured performance, or that another component is limiting frame delivery. Check that the benchmark is repeatable and that the changed setting took effect. A higher CPU frequency is not automatically a higher frame rate if the game is waiting on the GPU or is otherwise constrained.
Temperature or current throttling appears
Do not treat a power-limit adjustment as the fix for a different constraint. Intel identifies insufficient cooling and power delivery among possible causes of throttling. First determine which indicator is active and whether cooling or the platform’s delivery capacity is adequate. More permissive power limits can increase heat and power use in sustained CPU-heavy workloads, so removing a limit without checking those conditions can make the system run hotter without helping games.
FPS or 1% lows improve consistently
If repeated runs show a reliable gain and telemetry confirms that the old power limit was constraining the CPU, the change helped that particular configuration and workload. Keep the CPU, BIOS profile, game settings, frame cap, and cooling conditions attached to the result; do not assume the same setting or gain applies to other games or processors.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Should you remove Intel power limits?
Not as a default gaming tweak. Limits are part of how a processor and platform manage power and thermal behavior. Intel’s 12th-generation desktop guidance recommends PL1 equal to Processor Base Power and cautions against setting it beyond the cooling solution’s capability. Motherboard BIOS profiles can differ, so first inspect the values and monitoring behavior on your own system. Consider a higher limit only if repeatable in-game evidence shows that the existing power limit is the active performance constraint and the cooling and power-delivery setup can support the change.
Setting PL1 equal to PL2 is not, by itself, a gaming optimization. It changes the configured thresholds, but whether that changes performance depends on whether the CPU would otherwise hit a limit during the game. The appropriate settings are processor- and platform-specific; no universal PL1, PL2, or Tau value is established by the cited gaming comparisons.
Why is my Intel CPU power-limit throttling in games?
It means the CPU is reducing frequency to stay within a reported power threshold, according to Intel’s XTU guide. The report does not by itself tell you whether that reduction is lowering FPS. Compare the timing of the limit indicator with CPU frequency and frame-time behavior during repeatable runs, and check thermal and current indicators as well. If the game remains smooth and the measured frame rates do not change when the limit is adjusted safely, the throttle event may not be a meaningful gaming bottleneck.
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
If the CPU does appear constrained, verify the motherboard’s active BIOS profile and power values, then assess whether the cooler and power delivery are adequate before increasing a limit. A limit can be functioning as intended for the system’s thermal and electrical design; removing it without diagnosing the constraint can exchange a power ceiling for excess heat or another limit.
What this means for a gaming upgrade
Do not buy a cooler solely on the assumption that higher Intel power limits will increase gaming FPS. The cited 13600K gaming measurements do not establish that outcome. A cooler is relevant if your own measurements show thermal throttling or inadequate cooling, but any selection must match the CPU socket, case clearance, and the system’s actual heat load. Better cooling can address a thermal constraint; it cannot guarantee a frame-rate gain when power limits were not the problem.
The strongest decision rule is straightforward: measure the game, locate the active constraint, make one controlled change, and compare repeatable FPS, 1% lows, frequency, power, and temperatures. If the processor is not reaching its power limit, raising that limit is unlikely to produce a meaningful gaming improvement.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
