F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop 8/16 processor for Noctua NH-L12s: options 3800x or 9900x available

8/16 processor for Noctua NH-L12s: options 3800x or 9900x available

8/16 processor for Noctua NH-L12s: options 3800x or 9900x available

M
MJ_Snickers
Junior Member
13
03-24-2019, 03:31 AM
#1
I plan to assemble a gaming rig tailored for Phanteks Evolv Shift - Air (the model featuring mesh side panels) with ample CPU space. I’ll allocate room for three 140mm fans to ensure strong airflow. Based on current reviews, the Noctua NH-L12s appears to be the top choice under an 82mm clearance. Regarding cooling options, the Noctua NH-L12s seems to be the best fit.

For CPU considerations, I’m leaning toward a nonK i9-9900K rather than the 9900K itself, as it would struggle with full turbo and I’d prefer the R7 3800X for better performance. Even a stock AMD cooler should keep temperatures manageable. Since I’ve already secured the case and cooler, my focus is now on CPU performance versus thermal limits. I’m aiming for temps below 85°C and prioritizing efficiency over cost.

The only constraints are cooling capacity and sustained performance. I’m evaluating options in terms of power efficiency per watt. A 9900K wouldn’t allow significant overclocking, so it doesn’t seem necessary. The 9700K offers near-perfect CPU performance at 8/8 thermal load, making it a strong contender.

I’ve already purchased the case and cooler, so my only question is about the CPU path. Would you recommend sticking with the 9900K or should I go for the 3700X instead? Also, I’m open to finding a GTX 1060 or newer from 2020 for around $500. Thanks for your input!
M
MJ_Snickers
03-24-2019, 03:31 AM #1

I plan to assemble a gaming rig tailored for Phanteks Evolv Shift - Air (the model featuring mesh side panels) with ample CPU space. I’ll allocate room for three 140mm fans to ensure strong airflow. Based on current reviews, the Noctua NH-L12s appears to be the top choice under an 82mm clearance. Regarding cooling options, the Noctua NH-L12s seems to be the best fit.

For CPU considerations, I’m leaning toward a nonK i9-9900K rather than the 9900K itself, as it would struggle with full turbo and I’d prefer the R7 3800X for better performance. Even a stock AMD cooler should keep temperatures manageable. Since I’ve already secured the case and cooler, my focus is now on CPU performance versus thermal limits. I’m aiming for temps below 85°C and prioritizing efficiency over cost.

The only constraints are cooling capacity and sustained performance. I’m evaluating options in terms of power efficiency per watt. A 9900K wouldn’t allow significant overclocking, so it doesn’t seem necessary. The 9700K offers near-perfect CPU performance at 8/8 thermal load, making it a strong contender.

I’ve already purchased the case and cooler, so my only question is about the CPU path. Would you recommend sticking with the 9900K or should I go for the 3700X instead? Also, I’m open to finding a GTX 1060 or newer from 2020 for around $500. Thanks for your input!