CPU (Q9550) cooler..
CPU (Q9550) cooler..
Hello everyone,
After much research, I successfully overclocked my Q9550 to 3.7 Ghz with temperatures at 58°C on average when idle. This was done using the stock cooler.
I’m now looking for a better cooler to lower idle temps to the 40s. What’s the best option for me?
My case is compact and I’m using an Asus P5K-VM motherboard.
Also, I’m open to liquid cooling solutions as long as they’re under $50, and I need to consider the room temperature of around 32°C.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Remove the side cover from your case. Place a stick across the opening and check the available height. Coolermaster offers affordable coolers, while Silverstone and Thermalright provide larger models at a higher cost. Some models, such as the Silverstone Nitrogon, can be laid flat if space is limited. Larger fans tend to be quieter. 120mm is the full size, 92mm is medium. Look for an LGA775 cooler. The specification sheet will list dimensions, fan speed, and sound rating in decibels. The fan matters just as much as the cooler, and airflow in and out is crucial. You should find a model with six cooling tubes at that price. Thermal paste plays a key role. Arctic Silver is widely used. If you haven’t done so yet, adding heatsinks to the VRM MOSFETs is recommended.
William P suggests removing the side cover of your case and placing a stick across the opening to check available height. Coolermaster offers affordable coolers, while Silverstone and Thermalright provide larger models at higher prices. Some models, such as the Silverstone Nitrogon, can lay flat if space is limited. Larger fans tend to be quieter. 120mm is full size, 92mm is medium, and you should look for an LGA775 cooler. The specifications sheet will list size, fan speed, and sound rating in decibels. Both the cooler and airflow are crucial, so consider a model with six cooling tubes at that price. Thermal paste matters, and Arctic Silver is a popular choice. If you haven’t tried it yet, adding heatsinks to the VRM MOSFETs would be beneficial.
Most coolers are placed above memory modules without additional coolers. You should measure, and the cooler manufacturer's website will provide drawings indicating the dimensions. Some coolers are aligned with the fan on one side, while others are offset for a centered appearance. There are numerous sizes and designs available. You can adjust an offset cooler by moving the fan to another position or rotating it sideways if required. The variety of options makes it difficult to determine what will fit best.
william p :
Most coolers can be placed above memory modules without needing additional coolers. You should measure and refer to the cooler manufacturer's website for size diagrams. Some models have fans on one side and others are centered, while others are offset for better balance. There are many sizes and designs available. If you want more flexibility, you can use an offset cooler and adjust the fan position further. It’s hard to say exactly what will fit without more details.
i m is looking at the Cooler Master EVO 212, which should work with the LGA 775 socket.
p.s: my motherboard info is here – https://www.asus.com/Motherboards/P5KVM/specifications/ – do you think it’s large enough for that cooler?