MacBook Pro 16" (5600m + i7 9750H) throttling CPU down to 0.8Ghz

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Level 1

6 points

MacBook Pro 16" (5600m + i7 9750H) throttling CPU down to 0.8Ghz

My new MacBook Pro with the new raedon pro 5600m and the i7 9750H is throttling down to 0.8Ghz even when I am only using a little.

Not sure why this is happening? Is this a power error? I am getting the same result both plugged in and unplugged.

Is the processor having issues, are these processors faulty? I purchased an expensive MacBook pro to have good performance, not for it to look pretty only.

It's really frustrating, I have returned another MacBook Pro with the 5500m, I thought this new one will solve the throttling problems, but I am seeing that it's buggy.

Any solutions, tips, apart from returning it?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Jul 16, 2020 10:01 AM

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Answer 1

Jul 25, 2020 4:37 PM in response to Fech

Gaming stresses computers a lot so I suspect you are overheating the laptop. The Intel CPUs automatically throttle their speed (aka frequency) whenever the CPU core temp reaches about 100C in order to protect itself. As soon as the CPU core temp lowers the CPU will let the CPU run faster again. I've heard rumors that Apple cannot even let the Intel CPU to run normally so Apple has modified how the Intel CPU is used in order to help keep CPU temps lower so that Apple's cooling solution will be sufficient for standard workflows.

Apple laptops are not really meant for gaming since the Apple laptops can barely keep running at speed for normal usage. These Apple laptops contain a very powerful CPU which runs really hot, but these CPUs are contained in a very thin space with little room for allowing the built-up heat to escape. Even people who custom build PC desktop gaming systems will install multiple large case fans to keep the CPU and GPU cool (some even use a liquid cooling system). If PC desktop gamers do this, then there is no way for Apple's super thin laptops to be able to do the same (or perform the same).

If you want to play computer games, then you need a computer designed for gaming.

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Answer 2

Jul 20, 2020 2:53 PM in response to Fech

The 16-in MacBook Pro is the "Muscle Car" of MacBook Pro.

It has an enhanced cooling system, but may not be prepared for how hot the GPU AND the Processor can get.

What does Activity Monitor say you are doing to use so much CPU power?

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Answer 3

Fech Author

Level 1

6 points

Jul 25, 2020 8:55 AM in response to sterling r

I have done that several times. Does not fix the issue.

MacBook Pro throttles, so I cannot game properly for longer than 30 minutes without the FPS to go super low.

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Answer 4

Fech Author

Level 1

6 points

Jul 25, 2020 8:56 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

This happens while gaming. It throttles down in some cases the CPU and in some cases the GPU.

It does not have a stable performance at all.

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Answer 5

Aug 15, 2020 9:14 PM in response to Fech

Hey have you been able to find a solution to the cpu throttling? I’m having the same issue with my 16inch as well

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Answer 6

sterling r

Community Specialist

Jul 20, 2020 2:30 PM in response to Fech

Hello Fech,

Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities! We understand that you are having an issue with the performance on your MacBook Pro. We are happy to provide you some troubleshooting steps.

First, We would suggest resetting your SMC. Here is a resource that can help you:

How to reset the System Management Controller (SMC) on your Mac

We would also suggest trying:

Use safe mode to isolate issues with your Mac

Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac

Please let us know if you are still having issues after reviewing the links.

Have a great day!

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MacBook Pro 16" (5600m + i7 9750H) throttling CPU down to 0.8Ghz

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