Cryorig M9a With A R5 1600?
Cryorig M9a With A R5 1600?
For someone mindful of costs yet aiming for solid average overclocking on a R5 1600 (3.8 - 3.9ghz with decent silicone lottery), could a Cryorig M9a provide noticeable improvements? It might be worth considering, especially since your case fans are PanaFlos and running them at full speed isn’t necessary for the Spire. The device has a TDP threshold of 120w, which exceeds that of the Wraith Spire, so you’re likely to see better results. However, any feedback would be valuable as you prepare to place your order.
They would handle the same performance. Even with the increased TDP of the Cryo, it probably wouldn't make a difference because I won't need to exceed 95W. Regarding the nearby parts, the downdraft from the Spire shouldn't add extra heat if my setup already has good airflow.
Cryorig could be a bit better, though not significantly so; it's unclear if the extra cost is justified.
To achieve 3.8-3.9Ghz performance you should consider top-end air coolers. The Noctua NH-D15S is recommended as it offers the best value in that range (only one fan included), is very compact (up to 65mm tall RAM with a total fan height of 160mm), and matches the capabilities of its larger model NH-D15 if you add an extra fan for the 2C variant. Other options include Cryorig R1, Cooler Master master Air Maker 8, Deepcool Gamerstorm Assassin II, and Let Grand Macho rt (which has a large heatsink). However, all of these are bulky and often need a full tower case with low-profile RAM, starting around $79 USD.
To achieve 3.8-3.9Ghz performance, focus on premium air coolers. The Noctua NH-D15S stands out as the most affordable option in its category, featuring just one fan, compact design (up to 65mm tall RAM with a total height of 160mm), and comparable performance to the larger NH-D15 model—just with an optional extra fan for that 2C variant. Other choices include the Cryorig R1, Cooler Master master Air Maker 8, Deepcool Gamerstorm Assassin II, and Let Grand Macho rt, which offer large heatsinks but require a full tower case and low-profile RAM, starting around $79 USD.
Other options are available such as the 120mm Pure Rock for $9 more than the M9a, though shipping costs could add $15 unless you opt for a B350 PC Mate board to qualify for free shipping. The SHADOW ROCK 2 is on sale for $50 with free shipping at Newegg, but its heatsink appears less impressive and quite bulky.
Reviewers usually get pretty good products (who needs free promotion?), but this doesn't reflect what an average person experiences. Look at the silicon lottery—4.0Ghz chips are available, which isn't typical.