My first build, which heatsink?

huntern

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Nov 30, 2009
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I've been looking at all of the coolers lately, and i'm really not sure which ones will fit my setup, and with the best performance possible.

Case - Cooler Master Storm Scout
CPU - Intel i7 920
GFX - PNY Nvidia GTX 275
OCZ Gold DDR3 1600 3x2GB.
PSU - Antec TruePower New TP-750 750W
Motherboard - EVGA X58 SLI LE http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813188049

I would be buying the cooler from newegg, or locally at Fry's. I'd like something with an adjustable fan, and that can cool really well and will fit without having to rig it. I've heard good things about ZALMAN, and I used their laptop cooler and loved it, but I don't know about desktop coolers.
Thanks guys.
 
Solution
Your Storm Scout is 8.6 inches wide. That is wider than a standard atx case. It can accomodate any of those 160mm tower style heatsinks. No problem.
Here is a link to a very good web site with a lot of useful information about cpu heatsinks:

http://www.frostytech.com/top5heatsinks.cfm

You can use the Google embedded search feature at the web site to find more information about heatsinks for specific cpu sockets.

BTW - Good choice for a power supply.

We have two Fry's Electronics store here in Phoenix, Arizona. I visit them on a regular basis. They do not have a very good selection of cpu heatsinks. They normally don't carry top of the line heatsinks. You'll be better off purchasing from an online vendor. Online prices are cheaper than Fry's, they're tax free, and if you're lucky you might get free shipping. It's worth waiting a few days for delivery.
 
I've seen that list, but I'm still really not sure which to buy. The Prolimatech isn't in stock, and doesn't come with a fan. 3R systems Ice age 120 is one I would buy, but it isn't available in the US. I think that the Titan is too tall for my system. I'd like to find out which heatsinks will fit in my setup. I don't have a side fan yet, but plan to get them in the future, so a cooler that won't be hitting the side of my case is a must.
 
Most reviews list the height of the cooler from the base. Use that measurement from the top of your CPU to the side of the case, minus 27 mm or so for the fan. Frosty does have a list of low profile coolers.

Get out a ruler and look at Frosty. might take you a few hours, but you'll be sure it's right.
 
Ok, I'm going to get the XIGMATEK Dark Knight. One of the top coolers and also quieter than the other top coolers. Its also the best looking and will go well with my all black motherboard.
 

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