Hot CPU socket?
Hot CPU socket?
I just had another thought, maybe adding a second fan on the 212 evo to have [Push Fan|Cooler|Pull Fan] Or using a side case fan with a 90 degree duct to guide the airflow through the side. Both options should boost airflow through the cooler, leading to lower temperatures. Keep us updated – I hope you come up with a solution!
I probably should have said this sooner, but I did try zip tying a amd stock fan on vrm (intake), and took mobo side panel off and mounted fan (intake) to back of socket, it did help, but socket temps were still in high 60's when at 4.5ghz 1.4065v, and plus the setup seemed kinda ridiculous and not practical for me, so I took them off haha. Now the real problem is I don't really monitor temps that much, only when stress testing or benchmarking, the cpu stays below 40c gaming, I just think 4ghz at 1.375v is kinda strange to have the temps i posted in that pic while using prime95. Though this basically the first time I also prime95'd on stock settings (since I turned off all the power saving crap, I wanted to be sure I was still A-OK at 4ghz, which it passed for 8hrs)
Cable management isn't the main concern. The only way I can perceive your current setup improving (without altering the CPU cooler) would be by installing a second fan on the opposite side, creating a push/pull arrangement. Do you still possess the second pair of clips that came with the 212 Evo? Attach a new 120mm clip and observe the results. Apart from that, it seems like a standard configuration. Also, if you're only reaching 40°C during gaming and that stress testing is the bottleneck, consider whether gaming is the most demanding activity on your PC. Any video editing, 3D modeling, or other intensive tasks? If not, don't worry—stress testing will still put pressure on your CPU unless you anticipate heavy usage. Also, installing a dedicated temperature monitoring app permanently on your desktop could help if you're concerned about sudden temperature spikes. Overall, an upgraded cooler would be the most logical solution. This is just my perspective, but if I were you, I'd adjust some empty drive bays to enhance airflow, add a second fan to the CPU cooler, reapply thermal paste, and if necessary, replace the cooler. But ultimately, it's your PC and your build—well done!
I understand your concern about the drive bays, but they don't impact the CPU as you can observe. The single fan is directly connected to the CPU cooler. (I still need to dust the PC, but it's not as bad as the pictures make it look.) Thanks for the compliment—I really appreciate it. I’m planning to upgrade to a Noctua, since either option would give me a higher OC (around 4.7) than the Hyper 212 can support. After installing the Noctua nh-d15, I’ll share my results.