Overclocking

The overclocking process using a Ryzen 9 7950X is exactly the same as previous Ryzen generations. However, AMD has already tuned the turbo algorithm to the ceiling, very little room is left for manual overclocking. Traditional methods of overclocking with a set voltage and frequency still works, but the benefits are limited. AMD Ryzen Precision Boost Overdrive is the best way to get the maximum performance out of the CPU. it is worth taking the time to go through the settings and set it up correctly according to your hardware and use case.


If you are not keen on using the BIOS for CPU overclocking, AMD provides a piece of software called Ryzen Master. This is an all-in-one tool for overclocking on Ryzen platforms. You can have the software try to auto optimize PBO, or use the AMD ECO mode preset to limit the AMD 7950X to 90 Watts. Multi-threaded scores are reasonable considering the lower power target, with just over 30,000 points in Cinebench R23.


ASUS has its own overclocking utility called AI Suite 3. This has many of the same functions as Ryzen Master, but adds control over features such as CPU related voltages and Load-Line Calibration.


For those who are interested in seeing what voltages and system temperatures are monitored inside HWInfo, here is a screenshot.

Memory Overclock

*Does not pass y-cruncher 2.5 B with motherboard default settings
**Automatically in 2:2:1 Ratio, but 2:1:1 is stable as well

Once again, it is time to get a look at DDR5 support for AMD. Echoing previous B650E / X670E reviews here, DDR5 support for the AM5 platform is somewhat sporadic. As newer AGESA updates roll out, so comes memory support improvements as well. Not too long ago 128 GB (4x 32 GB) didn't work at all. Now it at least boots into Windows, although not fully stable for this particular motherboard. Overall ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E HERO memory support is average. Considering how flaky the memory is on AM5 and this motherboard, it is highly suggested to stick with DDR5-6000 and not bother with anything faster. This is the same recommendation that all AM5 based motherboards receive currently and is not a direct reflection on ASUS's implementation, but of the AM5 platform as a whole.