Intel Introduces Processor Overclocking Insurance Plan

Intel has just released an interesting insurance program for its current-gen K and X series processors that target the overclockers out there. Under this paid program, if a CPU dies or goes wonky as the result of overclocking, Intel will replace it for free. For those hoping to push their brand-new i7-3960X hard, purchasing a plan like this might not be a bad idea.

This plan isn’t to be misunderstood as Intel’s acceptance or support of overclocking, because for all intents and purposes, the company can’t very well encourage people to push its products out of spec, for obvious reasons. But since the company is far from oblivious that some do to like to overclock, this is a plan that can give someone a bit of piece of mind.

Current pricing is $20 for the i5-2500K, $25 for both the i7-2600K and i7-2700K, $30 for the i7-3930K and $35 for Intel’s current top-end i7-3960X. For those that end up having their CPU die due for non-overclocking reasons, the default 3-year warranty would be used in its place. This protection plan is specifically geared for CPU issues gained by overclocking (it can be assumed that Intel can tell if a CPU had been overclocked or not).

For those concerned with the plan going unused in the event of a sale, don’t fret: it’s transferable. So if the person you sold the chip to went a little too hardcore on it, they wouldn’t be out of luck.

The introduction of this plan is an interesting move by Intel, and I’m still not sure what to make of it. Is Intel trying to prove something here? Or is it just a way to earn more revenue when it knows that the vast majority of those with this plan will never end up using it? Regardless of the reason, it’s nice to have this option available.