Your laptop has a powerful CPU and GPU, but performance is inconsistent. You notice stutters in games, export delays in video editing, or sudden drops in benchmark scores.
The hidden culprit might be Power Limit Throttling—a mechanism that restricts CPU or GPU power draw to protect the system or battery.
What Is Power Limit Throttling?
Modern CPUs have multiple power limits:
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PL1 – long-term power cap
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PL2 – short-term boost limit
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PL4 – platform power limit (often OEM-imposed)
When the system hits one of these, performance drops instantly—even if temperatures are fine.
How to Detect It
Use Intel XTU or ThrottleStop to check:
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Power Limit Throttling status flags
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PL1/PL2 values and their activation frequency
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Clock speeds dropping despite low temps
Alternatively, HWInfo64 can show “Power Limit Exceeded” messages under the CPU status section.
Fixes Without BIOS Access
Most laptops don’t expose PL1/PL2 controls in BIOS. Try the following:
1. ThrottleStop
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Download and run as Administrator
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Under FIVR tab, reduce Turbo Ratio Limits slightly
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Set higher PL1 and PL2 values under TPL
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Check “Disable Power Limits” option
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Apply settings and set to launch at startup
2. Intel XTU
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Open Core Voltage tab
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Increase PL1/PL2 to match CPU TDP max rating
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Click “Apply” and test stability
3. Disable Intel DPTF (Dynamic Platform Thermal Framework)
In Device Manager:
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Expand System Devices
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Disable all DPTF components
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Reboot and test (Warning: some OEMs depend on DPTF for fan curves)
4. Use Windows High Performance Mode
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Go to Power Options → Create a new plan → High Performance
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In Advanced Settings, disable CPU idle states and set minimum processor state to 100%
Real Example
A gaming laptop with an i7-10750H was stuck at 25W PL1, throttling in minutes. Using ThrottleStop, the user raised PL1 to 45W and regained full Cinebench scores and gaming stability—without touching the BIOS.
Power limit throttling is one of the most overlooked causes of poor laptop performance. If your CPU isn’t hot but still slow—start here.