Expected cooling performance isn't being achieved.
Expected cooling performance isn't being achieved.
Hello! I just set up another new topic about my recently assembled PC. Here are the details: Cooler (top of case, expelling air): NZXT Kraken X73 RGB 360 mm AIO CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7900X GPU: ZOTAC 4080 Trinity OC MB: ASUS TUF GAMING B650-PLUS RAM: 32GB (2×16) Corsair Vengeance DDR5 5600 SSD: 2×Samsung 980Pro 1TB + 2 TB case: Sharkoon ELITE SHARK CA300T I adjusted the pump on the CPU and modified the cooling settings in the BIOS. Previously, it reached maximum speed at 70°, so I changed it to operate at max at 60°. My goal was to keep the temperature around 10° lower than before. Regarding the issue: my CPU overheats a bit and doesn’t cool down properly. I tested this with several games, but the cooler didn’t perform as expected. The problem varies by game: 1) Cyberpunk – start-up temps are normal (70-75°C), rarely hit 80°C; stayed at 10% usage. 2) Hogwarts Legacy – starts hot (92-95°C) when CPU is at full load, sometimes lingering. After startup temps drop to 68-78°C during play. 3) Horizon Zero Dawn – after start-up temps reach 90-93°C with low usage; then cool down to 65-75°C while playing. 4) HWInfo + prime95 stress test – results attached. I’m not sure if this is normal, but I expect the cooler to handle higher temps, especially with the 360mm AIO. What should I investigate further? How can I verify? Any additional info would be helpful. Thanks!
Schaukeljunge67 faces the challenge of high temperatures with modern Ryzen processors. Early reports suggest these chips can reach up to 95°C, but AMD claims performance remains normal. I owned a 6-year-old FD Celsius 360mm AiO and upgraded to the 7800x3D recently. My system stayed cool during idle periods, around 60°C or higher when active. Switching to an older NZXT 280mm AiO kept me in decent condition, though idle temps hovered in the 40s to 50s, sometimes climbing into the 60s during gameplay.
For optimal cooling, use the radiator in intake mode. This pulls in hot air from the exhaust, improving efficiency. The effectiveness also relies on strong intake airflow and the front design may restrict airflow.
In short, you're dealing with a CPU that runs very hot, has poor airflow design, and a cheap cooling solution. Are there any problems you've noticed while using it?
The problem I’m dealing with is that the CPU gets too hot. I knew it could overheat, but didn’t realize the case’s airflow was poor and the cooler was low quality. I’m trying to determine if this is typical and how to fix it. Your suggestion seems reasonable—consider replacing the case or using a better cooler.
Thank you, that is "good" to hear. I will wait for other responses and try the suggestions. Worst case is me being ordering a new case and rebuilding the pc in there (if I can actually expect a change in temperature). For the time being I will accept it.
Linus discussed the NZXT AIO problem in the 11min10sec segment of CPU Cooler Vid. If you haven't set up the NZXT CAM software at https://nzxt.com/software/cam, your AIO might be using silent mode by default. This could relate to your issue.
Start with a fresh case that includes a front panel. The cooler might not look great, but its cooling function should work fine; however, it won’t improve performance if the airflow is bad.
7900x aims for a 95°C, which means your temperatures are ideal. The problem with the prime95 stress test is that it puts heavy strain on the CPU and cooling must respond by lowering the temps. I’d say the radiator works better when ambient air flows over the fins rather than just forcing hot air inside the case.