Works great, and easy to install!
[Performance]
I am using an 8 core CPU that runs at **125 watts**. When comparing my results to those which you can predict for yourself, refer to the wattage rating of your own CPU, and use the difference in the wattage of your CPU and mine to estimate probable results.
With the stock cooling solution, my idle temps were commonly in the 54C range. Under heavy load, my CPU temps shot up past 65C (150F), and as they creeped up past 67, during prolonged load, sometimes could even shut my computer down from heat.
After installing this new heatsink/fan, my idle temps are around 38C, average normal operating is around 43C, and my temps under heavy load are round 52C. I've seen the temp spike up to 55 in very rare cases, under prolonged heavy load, but I've never seen it over 55.
I installed this cooler using ArcticSilver thermal compound instead of the compound it came with.
This cooler is MUCH quieter than my stock AMD cooler. The other one was enough to wake the dead at max RPMs, which it was constantly required to run at to keep my machine from overheating. This new cooler does not need to run at max RPMs to keep my CPU temp down and, even if it did, I cannot even hear this one at max RPMs.
[Installation]
My CPU socket is an AM3+. The socket uses the same mounting bracket that was used with AM3 and AM2 and AM2+ CPUs.
I chose this particular cooler because I wanted one that would be compatible with my existing mounting bracket. Many aftermarket coolers require an entire replacement of the CPU back plate on the motherboard. For those of us adding a cooler to an existing build, this can be a royal pain... because you -usually- have to remove the motherboard from the case, to do this.
This cooler definitely accommodated my existing mounting bracket quite nicely. Installation was quick, easy, and painless... requiring no modification of any part of my motherboard or case. I was extremely pleased with this feature
My opinion of the snugness with which it fits is that it is: Sufficient. Not too tight, not too loose. It's tight enough to hold solid if your case just sits stationary all the time. If you are someone who is constantly picking up your case and going to LAN parties, then I would occasionally check the heatsink to make sure it is still perfectly centered over the CPU... but i don't think it would ever fall off.
[Bottom Line]
Considering the marked improvement in my CPU temps, combined with the ease of installation, I definitely won't hesitate to give kudos to this unit.
[Note to future CPU reviewers]
If you don't include the wattage of your CPU in the review, then you aren't giving viewers enough information to easily compare your experience to their potential results! A quantifiable point of reference is necessary!
| Standing screen display size | 3 Inches |
|---|---|
| Memory Speed | 1800 |
