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July 11th, 2025 14:15
Precision 7680, thermal issues, current status?
I need a new workstation to replace my almost 7 year old battleship Dell Precision 7530. I need ECC DRAM, and Dell's new Dell Pro Max line is sadly not an option. So, I am looking at their previous generation, in particular the Precision 7680.
My main concern is the large number of reports of thermal issues with the Precision 7680 (high sustained temperatures, performance reduced because of throttling, loud fans, etc). The end of this post has details.
What is the current status of thermal issues with Dell 7680 Precision laptop?
In particular, has Dell fixed the issue via BIOS updates?
Has Windows 11 power management software fixed all bugs?
Or are there still issues today?
Related: are thermal issues eliminated if you have a lower spec 7680?
If I buy a brand new 7680, I likely will opt for the Core i5 and Intel integrated graphics.
But if I buy from Dell Outlet, the current models available would have either an i7 or i9, and would come with an NVIDIA RTX 2000 discrete GPU.
So, are thermal issues with the 7680 reduced if you get
a) the Core i5 CPU instead of the Core i9?
b) use Intel integrated graphics instead of a discrete GPU?
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In Brave, I did a web search for "thermal issues with the Dell 7680 Precision laptop workstation" and Brave's AI Leo gave a decent summary, which I abbreviate as follows:
The Dell Precision 7680 laptop workstation has been reported to have significant thermal issues, with multiple users experiencing overheating problems.
These issues have been documented in various forums and reviews, indicating a systemic problem with the device's thermal management.
Users have reported that the laptop can become extremely hot, even when idle, and that the fans often run at high speeds, sometimes producing loud noises.
Some users have noted that the laptop can become so hot that it is uncomfortable to place a hand on the keyboard.
In some cases, the overheating has led to system crashes and blue screens of death.
Several solutions have been suggested by users to mitigate the overheating issues.
These include adjusting the thermal settings in the BIOS, disabling Intel Turbo Boost Technology, and using an adjustable laptop stand to improve airflow.
Additionally, some users have found that disabling the Windows 11 Power Management settings for the monitor can help reduce the temperature.
Vitoshensis
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August 29th, 2025 02:43
Hey man, did you end up getting the laptop? How is it holding up? I'm also considering it but the negative comments online are overwhelming...
HaroldFinch
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September 3rd, 2025 20:48
Vitoshensis: no, I have not yet ordered my next computer.
I was going to buy a new 7680 several weeks ago, but Dell changed the config options so that now you can only order one with their currently massively defective CAMM DRAM.
CAMM is an awesome idea that has been horribly executed by Dell. Lack of ECC means it is useless. Its 3X higher price than SODIMM also is a show stopper. Pity, because it is a much better connection that allows better density and higher speeds...
I have also been looking for good 7680/7780 deals on Dell Outlet. Problem is that most models offered are CAMM (see above). And the ones with SODIMM always have bad monitors (I want that nice 4K OLED one).
At this point, I am now strongly considering buying a new Dell Pro Max Slim workstation. It will be more powerful than any laptop and cheaper. I mostly work from home, and can tolerate working on my trusty old battleship 7530 Precision when I need to work outside.
If Framework would ever get their act together and offer a model like their Framework 16 that supports ECC DRAM, I might order one of those.
(edited)