Searching for a new CPU cooler.
Searching for a new CPU cooler.
The overclock multiplier for the Intel Core i7 8700 remains fixed. As long as temperatures stay within acceptable limits, you should encounter no problems. The article you found references the i7 6700K, a 6th generation processor with a TDP of 91 watts. The user has a i7 8700 which is more energy-efficient, producing less heat. The Cooler Master MasterLiquid Pro 120 cooler offers better temperatures compared to the standard cooler that comes with the i7 8700, and it operates more quietly. The reason for changing coolers was that the original one was too noisy, even though the user confirmed adequate cooling with the included stock cooler. If you intend to upgrade to a CPU with higher TDP in the future and are okay with slightly louder fans (two versus one) and possibly a more powerful pump, consider Deep Cool's Captain 240 RGB V2. It costs $89.99, is more expensive than the MasterLiquid Pro 120 ($56.68), and requires mounting on the front radiator area, not the rear slot used for 120mm units (suitable only for NZXT H500 cases).
Amazon product links:
- Deep Cool Captain 240 RGB V2: https://www.amazon.com/240-V2-Technology...07QPNP4VP/
- Cooler Master MasterLiquid Pro 120 RGB: https://www.amazon.com/Cooler-Master-Mas...07CRG8X69/
The review highlights that the cooler master 120 performs better in terms of noise and temperature compared to typical air coolers. Your continued support seems based on this performance.
Keep the stock cooler only if you feel comfortable with the noise. Otherwise, opt for a Hyper 212 Evo or Artic Freezer 34 Duo. A Hyper 212 LED for $20 would be slightly louder and hotter, yet superior to the standard cooler. Avoid water coolers—they’re large, heavy, and deliver similar cooling with no extra advantages.
I examined the review you referenced for the Cooler Master 120. As discussed in my earlier comment on this discussion, a Core i7 6700K is being used with a TDP of 91 watts, which is significantly higher than the 65-watt TDP of the i7 8700. This means the i7 6700K requires more cooling than the i7 8700, especially if you intend to overclock the latter. The review provides a more balanced view of the expected temperatures, showing lower readings compared to the stock cooler or Evo 212. Since the i7 6700K isn’t being pushed to its limits like the i7 6700K was, noise levels are reduced. If you need superior cooling or plan to use a processor with higher TDP, consider the Deep Cool Captain 240 RGB V2 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler (currently $89.99). For those not needing higher TDP, the MasterLiquid Pro 120 RGB offers good value at $33.31 savings while still delivering adequate cooling and quiet operation. If you prefer air cooling, the Deep Cool GAMMAX RGB model with Universal Socket System is a solid choice, costing $1.66 more than the Hyper 212 Evo. It supports universal sockets for future upgrades, offers better cooling performance, and features RGB that can sync with other LEDs in your setup. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/DEEPCOOL-GT-BK-Mo...s=deepcool lga 1151&qid=1585329150&sr=8-1-fkmr1&tag=linus21-20