Boost Raspberry Pi Performance with Turbo mode!

Learn how to boost your Raspberry Pi performance with turbo mode in this experimental tutorial

Boost Raspberry Pi Performance with Turbo mode!

Over on the foundation web site, they've introduced Turbo mode, which is an update to configuration which allows up to 50% power gain without voiding your warrenty (unfortunately I've already adjusted CPU voltage on mine so no warranty for me!). It's basically a firmware update and configuration that works by applying a 'turbo configuration' when the SoC reaches 85°C. Here's how to apply the turbo configuration to your Raspberry Pi:

Updating your Raspberry Pi firmware to enable 'Turbo Mode'

From terminal enter the following command:

sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install raspberrypi* raspi-config

Note: When running this command mine did give the impression that it had hung, give it a bit of time before you pull the power.

Configure your Raspberry Pi 'Turbo Mode'

Next launch the Raspberry Pi configuration by entering:

sudo raspi-config

You will see the familiar config options screen with a new option to overclock:

[![](GHOST_URL/content/images/2012me/content/images/2012/09/terminal-overclocking-raspberry-pi.jpg?ssl=1)

After choosing this option you'll se a warning about overclocking reducing the life of your Rasoberry Pi. Hit enter on 'OK' to proceed. This is where things get interesting.

Choosing your overclock configuration

You'll be presented with 5 overclock configurations. Everyone's needs are different so choose the configuration which you feel is right for you.

[![](GHOST_URL/content/images/2012me/content/images/2012/09/Raspberry-Pi-overcloc-configuration.jpg?ssl=1)

I went for the highest setting, which is 'Turbo'. You'll briefly see the command window while the configuration is applied, followed by the confirmation screen:

[![](GHOST_URL/content/images/2012me/content/images/2012/09/Raspberry-Pi-Turbo-mode-confirmation.jpg?ssl=1)

I don't know if the next step is neccesary, maybe you can tell me by leaving a comment below, but I restarted my Raspberry Pi at this point by entering this command:

sudo reboot

That's it! I'll be running some benchmarks soon so watch this space. There's more to this update than just overclocking; wifi issues and temperature returns are also achievable. I suggest heading over to the Raspberry Pi forum to find out more.