High-end CPU Coolers Reviewed and Compared 133
jjslash writes "CPU cooling units are an often-overlooked but always important side of PC building, whether you're looking to overclock or you simply want a cool-running, silent system. It's also easy to get lost if you aren't an enthusiast who keeps tabs on the best options. TechSpot has rounded up 10 high-end CPU coolers (read: huge heatsinks) including top units from Noctua, Thermalright, Xigmatek, Silverstone and Thermaltake. If you're willing to spend the cash, they rate the Noctua NH-U14S as the best overall pick. For a tighter budget, the Thermalright offerings provide the best bang for your buck."
Re:Silver (Score:2, Interesting)
Once again proving the old adage "Better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt."
While it is true that for most people a high end aftermarket cooler is not needed for many others it is a necessity.
The stock coolers that come with cpus nowadays are far better than those of 10 years ago but they still leave a LOT to be desired.
A truly good cpu cooler will ALWAYS improve the cooling of a computer and this can gain you lower temperatures with less noise or can allow the user to work the hell out of their cpu with high loads, heavy overclocking and higher than specified voltages (which help overclocking.)
I have yet to see a computer that before (stock cooler) and after (high end or or water) temps were not improved by at least 7 or 8 degrees c.
Anyone who thinks high performance cooling products are a "scam" is speaking without having any relevant knowledge on the subject.
Period.
There ARE a lot of aftermarket cooling solutions that are scams- performance is no better or quieter than stock and sometimes worse. These products are usually in the $15 to $45 price range. And yet there are also perfectly decent (though not great) solutions within that price range as well. Mostly $25 and up during sales and closeouts.
Stock heatsinks are for light computer users, corporate machines and those who just post on facebook and twitter.