i7 9700K model
i7 9700K model
The typical voltage needed to run a CPU at 5GHz usually ranges around 1.8V to 2.2V depending on the model. Your Noctua NH-D15 is likely compatible with air cooling, but water cooling might be better for stable overclocking. Check your specific part’s manual for exact requirements.
If you're aiming for those high speeds, I'd suggest using water. Honestly, I don't push myself that far, but I stick with water because it provides a quiet operation and stable temperatures for my main rig.
I think I'll get the H100i, it should take up less space too.
NH-D15 seems to be in good shape. Unless you encounter a faulty chip, my 9900k heats up more than most, but I still manage 5.0 (and even 5.1) with the D15. The 5.1 OC is definitely loud, while 5.0 OC stays quiet unless you push it into a stress test, after which it becomes noticeable. The D15 or DRP4 can handle just about any AIO, as shown in a video where it matched or outperformed custom loops. If you prefer the look of big air coolers over AIOs, the H100i will work perfectly. However, the D15 is a powerful cooler and definitely supports high temperatures.
The phrase suggests confusion about whether a garbage chip implies unnecessary heat or lack of purpose.
the average voltage sits between 1.35v and 1.375v, likely covering about 80% of the 9700k units running at 5ghz under 1.4v. my 9900k tends to fall in the lower end, around 30%, but the 9700k is more probable. the h100i handles 135w well (though not ideal for 5), while a d15 seems better suited for 9700k at 5ghz (around 185w). the only AIO option worth considering over air is a 360mm unless appearance matters.
My performance isn't as impressive as some online discussions suggest, especially with their 5.0 gHz specs (around 1.25-1.3 v). I'm currently at 1.35v for 5.0. My CPU runs smoothly and efficiently, needing only a modest voltage boost—just the chip itself. For 5.0, I need to increase the voltage significantly (this varies by component). Still, the D15 handles stable operation at 5.0 ghz with minimal noise. I've been using it for about a year without any issues. Air cooling has improved a lot thanks to better heatsinks and heat-pipe designs; just ensure you choose quality ones. Noctua and bequiet are my preferred options—they offer reliable, budget-friendly air coolers.
Silicon lottery seems possible. The D15 is quite loud, and I'm curious about its fit in my case. I own a Define XL R2.