AMD’s 5000 series launch has been beyond impressive. Despite its successful run, some AMD chipset has some annoying issues. One such issue is overclocking. Many users failed to boost their Ryzen 5900X beyond the base clock.
If you’re here, you’re probably wondering, why is AMD 5900X not boosting?
One of those reasons for Ryzen 5900X not boosting is a locked CPU core ratio. Resetting the core ratio to auto often fixes the problem. Other than that, updating the BIOS is another recommended fix to try. You can also install the latest chipset driver to
That was only a summary of the multiple answers. Without a doubt, each of these methods requires detailed discussion and instructions. And we’re more than glad to help you with that.
Keep reading till the end to know more about AMD 5900X and its boosting problems.
AMD 5900X Fails To Reach Boost Clock: 3 Easy Fixes
Overclocking a processor isn’t always a sweet ride. Depending on your PC setup, there can be many problems. Some common issues can be temperature, ram speed, cooling capabilities, etc.
These problems often require trying out multiple solutions to eliminate probabilities. For instance, there can be multiple reasons behind an RTX 3000 series fan spinning issues.
According to AMD, the 5900X boost clock is 4.8 GHz. It’s also called the 5900X boost frequency. And the 5900x base clock is 3.7 GHz.
It means that there’s a lot of overclocking potential that you can achieve.
But that’s where the problem occurs. Many people have complained that their 5900X is only boosting to 4.2 GHz. People have also reported that 5900X precision boost overdrive isn’t working.
And if you’re here that means you’re having the same problem. Luckily for you, we got multiple solutions.
Simply go through them one by one and try them out. This will help you narrow the source of the problem.
Solution 1: Reset CPU Core Ratio
If you own an ASUS motherboard or a Gigabyte motherboard, you may have this problem. You also may run into the problem if you have used third-party software.
Even ASUS AI Suite or AMD’s Ryzen Master can create this core ratio problem.

When the problem occurs, it sets your CPU core ratio to a certain value. When the CPU core ratio is set to a certain value, it’ll be a limiter. In other words, the clock speed won’t go beyond that value.
For example, you’ve set the CPU core ratio to 37.50. It means you’ve locked the boost clock to 3.75 GHz.
Technically, having a certain core ratio means you’re locking the 5900X boost speed.
The boost speed of 5900x can go up to 4.8 GHz. If your CPU is not reaching that overclocked speed then there’s probably something wrong with the CPU core ratio.
That’s why we’re going to start from there.
Follow the steps below and you’ll be fixing it in no time.
Step 1: Access the BIOS Settings
The first thing you need to do is to get into the BIOS settings. There are a couple of ways to do it.
You can press the DEL or F12 button to enter the BIOS settings. In some motherboards, there can also be F10 or F11 buttons.
Find out the BIOS button and press it to enter the BIOS settings.
Step 2: Find the Overclocking settings
You’ll now have to find the overclocking settings. It can also be mentioned as tweaker settings. It depends on your motherboard manufacturer.
After entering the BIOS, find the settings related to overlocking or tweaking. On ASUS motherboards, the menu is called AI tweaker or extreme tweaker.
On MSI motherboards, you can find this setting in the OC section.
Upon entering the overclocking setting, you’ll see the CPU core ratio right away.
Step 3: Check the CPU Core Ratio
It’s the moment of truth. Check the CPU core ratio setting for a certain value. You’ll find a specific number like 38, 40, or 44.5.
This number determines your clock speed and locks it. For example, 40 means the clock is locked at 4.00 GHz.
If you find a specific number stated in the core ratio, you’ll have to remove it.
Step 4: Reset the CPU Core Ratio
All that’s left is to reset the CPU core ratio back to normal. Luckily, you can do it right away.
Use your keyboard to access the core ratio settings. Afterward, write the word “auto” in the box. If you can’t write auto, you can also put a 0 in the box.
This concludes the reset process but there’s still one task left to do!
Step 5: Reset the RAM to D.O.C.P
It’s time to reset the RAM or D.O.C.P. If it’s already done yet, that’s great. If you haven’t, you’ll have to reset it right now.
Changing the CPU core ratio might reset the RAM that’s why you’ll have to double-check it. It can be tricky sometimes; getting 3200 MHz ram speed on Ryzen.
Go to the RAM settings and set it to D.O.C.P. Make sure to put the right BUS speed while you’re doing so.
And you’re all done! Make sure to save the settings and boot the computer. Afterward, go to the task manager setting to check the clock speed.
You can now tweak 5900X overclock settings using PBO. This will help you get the desired 5900X overclock results.
If you do everything right, you can get up to 5 GHz of speed from your chipset. It might seem unbelievable at first but it’s completely true-
Speaking of overclocking, motherboards are equally important to achieve better results. Many times, it’s the motherboard which bottlenecks your CPU! So, getting a hig-end or better motherboard can be a good decision.
If you want to check out some next gen motherboards to upgrades, we’ve the perfect suggestions-
- The best budget pick for Ryzen 9 5900x is ASUS Prime X570-P. It’s quite the nice upgrade from your typical run and down motherboard.
- If you’re looking for something high-end, then ASUS Prime Z690-A LGA is a great pick.
- Lastly, GIGABYTE X570 I AORUS Pro Wi-Fi can bring out the best from 5900x.
These motherboards will definitely allow you to get that sweet overclocked speed you’re looking for!
Solution 2: Update the BIOS Firmware
If resetting your CPU core ratio didn’t work, then you’ll have to go a little further. Updating the BIOS is your next big shot.

Luckily, resetting your motherboard’s BIOS is pretty easy. It only takes a couple of minutes.
Follow the procedure step by step for a flawless result.
Step 1: Locate the System BIOS Information
Before you can download the desired BIOS, you’ll need some motherboard information first. You’re looking for the model of your motherboard and BIOS version with a date.
To get this, press the search icon and type “msinfo” and press enter. This will pop up the system information.
After that, check the model of the motherboard and the BIOS version. You may copy the name and date of the BIOS in a notepad.
That way you can compare it with the latest BIOS.
Step 2: Find & Download the Correct BIOS Firmware
Now you’ll have to find the most recent BIOS firmware for your motherboard. This process varies depending on the motherboard.
First, go to your motherboard brand’s website and check the product support section. You can also just search for the model of your motherboard.
Afterward, check the driver support section of the product. It can be found around the specification or gallery tab.
When you’ve found the latest BIOS for your motherboard, download it. Copy the file to a USB pen drive. Make sure there are no other files or folders in the pen drive.
When you’re done, connect the USB and boot your computer.
For ASUS motherboards, go to the BIOS setting and go to advanced settings. After that, check out the tools tab and find the ASUS EZ Flash.
Select the USB stick and read the BIOS file inside. This will update your BIOS.
Let the update kick in and stay put until it’s totally done.
For MSI motherboards, it’s a little different but nevertheless almost the same. Get into the BIOS settings and go to M-Flash.
Select the auto-reboot system to boot in flash mode. Select your USB and then choose the BIOS file. This will initiate the BIOS update.
After updating the BIOS, you can apply the overclocking settings.
Solution 3: Install Recent Chipset Driver
Another way to get rid of the boosting problem is to download and install the recent chipset driver. The process is quite similar to the previous segment.
Except for this time, you’re going to install the latest chipset driver for your motherboard.
Step 1: Find the Chipset Driver Version
First, click the search icon and type “Apps and Features”. This will pop a folder up on your screen.
You’ll now have to find another folder called “AMD Chipset Software”. It has an AMD logo on it so it should be easy.
Upon finding it you’ll also see the chipset version! Look at the right panel to find it.
Step 2: Download & Install the Recent Chipset Drivers
Head on to AMD’s website to directly download drivers from there. Look at the top left to find the “Drivers & Support” section.

Select your chipset or choose the auto-detect and install button.
Upon selecting chipsets, you’ll find chipset options on the right side. AMD Ryzen 5900X’s socket is the AM4 socket. Select the AM4 socket.
Now you’re going to see some motherboard chipsets which use AM4 technology. Pick the motherboard that you have. If you’re using an x570 motherboard, pick that.
Otherwise, select B550 chipset software. Press the submit button when you’re done.
Submitting will redirect you to the specific driver page of the selected chipset. You’ll see multiple versions of the drivers. Match your windows edition to download the correct driver.
When your download is finished, you can start installing the driver. Upon doing so, you can reboot your PC with a fresh chipset driver.
Try overclocking your Ryzen 5900X this time with the new chipset driver.
You can also reset the CMOS battery on the motherboard. This fix is a physical fix and not a software one. Make sure you’re extra careful while you reset the battery.
Anyways, if these fixes seemed bothersome or time-consuming, don’t hesitate to call experts. Call for a service and they’ll be able to provide good services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Ryzen Master settings permanent?
No, AMD’s Ryzen Master settings aren’t permanent. Once you turn off your computer it automatically resets to default. But you don’t have to tweak your settings every time. Simply select the profile that you used. It’ll automatically apply the tweaked overclocking settings right away.
Does using the Ryzen Master void warranty?
Yes, using Ryzen Master software for overclocking can void the warranty. According to AMD themselves, they may not provide warranties for damages caused by the software. It’s because when you overclock, you’re running the product with a higher clock speed. It can easily damage your processor.
Does turning on PBO void the warranty?
Turning on AMD’s PBO or precision boost overdrive doesn’t void the warranty. It’s the automatic overclocking support to squeeze some extra performance. It’s not always effective or brings drastic performance change. But it’s completely safe to use for all the processors that support it.
Final Thoughts
That was everything we could explain on the Ryzen 5900X not boosting issue. We hope these fixes have given you some idea about what needs to be done.
Sometimes, the culprit can be the Ryzen Master software. In that case, remember to reset the BIOS. It works almost all the time.
That’s all of it for now! Happy overclocking!