Looking at i9-10900KF again
Looking at i9-10900KF again
I don't. I'm still searching for the optimal mix: two USB3 ports, one USB2 port, and a USB Type C connector in the case. It should allow switching Tau from the standard 60 seconds to a longer turbo mode. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are preferred but not required.
You've got your 10900KF running smoothly for over six months with solid performance even under heavy load. Everything checks out perfectly.
AiO devices aren't always trustworthy just because they have many moving parts. They usually don't last long-term since maintenance becomes difficult. Most are sealed, which reduces their cooling efficiency over time as the liquid inside evaporates. The pump tends to run dry and stop working, leading to temperature spikes or even failure. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re unusable, but they no longer provide consistent, dependable cooling. Refillable models can last longer if cared for properly, though upkeep adds complexity. I owned three or four within the past five years, all of which failed despite being refillable. Even the one expected to last longer due to refillability broke down after about a year because the pump stopped working. AiO products seem to be a scam—regular purchases every 1-2 years are essential for good performance, or you should avoid using your PC too much. Running it only briefly—say, up to three hours a day—might extend its life to around five years.
Everything fades over time. Like any part of a system, they wear out. I purchase premium tires and brake components not hoping they’ll never fail, but knowing they’ll be used and work effectively within their lifespan.
Yes, an air cooler doesn't really wear out; just keep it clean and possibly replace or service the fans. The custom loop is durable—lasting 5 to 10 years—and with a good air pump, you're lucky if it starts out reliable. It's not a solid product; it's cheap, low-quality parts sold for profit, harming the environment for profit. They offer a 5-year warranty because they can sell many units and still make a decent margin.
It's a benefit from real use—my Deep Cool Assassin 3 performs just as well as premium air coolers, especially when running high loads. I struggled to maintain the 1.3v 10900k under full core load. The 360 AIO offers better stability and quieter operation, handling thermal spikes more smoothly. The big air cooler often fluctuated with fan speeds, while the AIO kept things steady. This means trade-offs: higher performance at the cost of shorter lifespan and higher price.
With a custom waterloop setup, you can achieve superior performance while extending the life of your system, and you won’t have to pay a significant premium. It seems some people aren’t motivated enough to maintain their equipment properly—just like tossing a dirty car into the trash instead of cleaning it.