What cooling solution should be selected?
What cooling solution should be selected?
So as the title suggests, I plan to modify my 8700k when I get it.
I won’t be fooled; I’m aiming for 5 GHz, though that really depends on chance.
Financial concerns aren’t a big worry as long as the price matches the features and cooling performance.
I’m used to air cooling but have now decided to give AIO coolers a try too.
I’ve been thinking about the Noctua NH-D15, NZXT Kraken X64 or Corsair h150i pro.
They’re all interesting options, though none of them are necessary—they just sparked my interest.
Noctua is a top choice for air cooling, while NZXT looks nice and seems to perform well (according to tests). The Corsair has more fans, which is better in my opinion.
If it matters, I’m planning to test some streaming content in the near future as a hobby.
My current setup includes:
Fractal Design Define R6
Asus Maximus X Hero with Asus Strix Z730-E, but saved up extra cash and decided to upgrade.
G.Skill TridentZ DDR4-3200
Zotac 1080 AMP
Corsair CX 750 power supply
Looking forward to hearing what others recommend.
Thanks ahead of time.
I recommend the Noctua NH-D15s.
Your cooling performance is outstanding and the standard fan configuration (two 140mm front intakes, one 140mm rear exhaust) works perfectly.
The updated Noctua suffix coolers offer two advantages:
1. They are positioned slightly off-center to avoid interference with graphics card backplates in the first PCIe x16 slot.
2. They are built to handle airflow around high-density heat spreaders. The NH-D15s provides better performance without extra cost and is more compact.
Noctua or Corsair? If I had to choose, Corsair stands out more. It offers superior software and better support in case of issues compared to NZXT. When comparing performance, the gap between Corsair and NZXT is relatively minor. In terms of sound quality, Corsair edges out NZXT.
The majority of your 5ghz overclock performance depends on your chip's quality, motherboard, RAM, and power supply. What matters most is your ability to handle the overclocking. A better cooler choice—unless it's the stock Intel HSF—can be the final factor limiting you.
Most of the performance gains from your 5ghz overclock depend on your chip, motherboard, RAM, and power supply. What really matters is your own overclocking abilities. A better cooler choice—unless it's the stock Intel HSF—can help you avoid unnecessary limitations.
You don’t need to purchase any of these to achieve a solid cooler or save money.
What coolers do you think would suit your needs? Since you’re open to saving, I’m always looking for ways to be economical.
You might want a Cryorig R1—it’ll cool efficiently without the harsh performance drop seen with Noctua. Most air coolers will push you to use a lower-profile RAM setup, such as Corsair Vengeance LX. The Hero is decent, but the extra features don’t justify the cost compared to a top-tier board. I’d avoid the entry-level PSU in this build and opt for something like Seasonic Focus instead.
Are you planning to install an SSD?
I recommend the Noctua NH-D15s.
Your case cooling performs very well, and the standard stock fan configuration (two 140mm front intakes and one 140mm rear exhaust) suits you perfectly.
The Noctua NH-D15s offers two improvements:
1. The design now accommodates graphics card backplates in the first PCIe x16 slot without issues.
2. It efficiently handles heat from tall heat spreaders, offering better performance without extra cost or bulk.
By the way, my usual criticism of liquid cooling:
I thought the noctua would be sufficient for rams because you can adjust the fan a bit higher to create space.
To be truthful, I don’t know much about motherboards—I only read that the strix and hero are similar, but the hero uses better and more durable materials. I was hoping for a solid, sturdy board if anyone says they’re alike, but I haven’t bought anything yet.
Oh dear lord, a new PSU is needed too; this part from my old rig has worked well so far and wasn’t considered entry-level. What recommendations does Seasonic Focus have?
Yes, I’m using two Samsung 850 Pro in this setup and planning to get a 960 Pro NVMe M.2 when possible.
Thanks for the feedback.
😉
True - most big air coolers let you move it assuming there is additional clearance to the case side. I’d rather get low pro ram and put the fan on right but that’s personal preference. The Noctua would be great regardless.
Easy psu button is in my sig. 650w is plenty but you could go 750w.
Note on the 960 pro - coming from those 850 pro’s it isn’t going to feel much faster in daily use and gaming. I was kinda disappointed in my Evo coming from an 850 evo.