Is this concerning?
Is this concerning?
It varies based on your task. When using Prime95, it makes sense. At idle, it's excessively hot. Since the chip handles 73W at 95°C, that aligns with expectations. The temperature is within safe limits for this component, which is rated for that maximum. Running under full load isn't unusual. Upgrading to a better cooler could boost speeds by 100-200MHz, but an AIO isn't essential and a $20 tower cooler should suffice.
It's okay now, but lately things seem off. When you open light apps like browser, Discord, or Spotify and the system is only using about 20% power, it charges at 75C. During light games such as Valorant it spikes to 85 sometimes, and playing GTA feels impossible. I once had a temp hit 107 before a forced shutdown, but after applying new thermal paste and using a compact case, the fans are easier to manage. A single fan with an airflow cooler would work well.
The stock cooler works well, have you ever maintained the PC and the cooler? Should I replace the thermal paste?
Primarily targeting the Deep cool le300 for under $50, it offers solid performance and positive feedback. A minor point is that it’s a single-fan model, so mounting it at the rear—where the exhaust fan typically sits—wouldn’t pose an issue, especially since I haven’t seen anyone do it that way before. This setup would be feasible for a top and front installation.
This setup works well with larger air coolers. For optimal performance with cases like the NZXT H1, a 120mm AIO would be preferable. If you're considering an SFF model, options such as the ID-COOLING SE-214-XT for around $20 or the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 for about $40 are more suitable alternatives.