I'm looking to upgrade my small form factor PC which has an i7 8700k, but I'm a bit out of the loop on what's available. I have a Dan A4-SFX case with a compact 92mm AIO cooler that I want to keep, so I'm trying to find a CPU that operates at similar or lower temperatures than my current one. Any advice on how to figure this out? Thanks!
3 Answers
For small form factor builds like yours, it’s generally tougher to manage heat. I’d recommend CPUs like the 7600x3D or 9600x, both of which have a lower TDP of 65W, making them better suited for your setup without overheating.
To find a CPU that will run cool enough, check its TDP (thermal design power). Compare it to what your cooler can handle. If the CPU's TDP is less than or equal to your cooler's capability, you should be good to go! Just keep in mind that meaningful upgrades often require a new motherboard too, so consider planning for that if you're looking for a significant performance boost.
TDP ratings can be misleading though, sometimes CPUs consume more power during peak usage than their rated TDP, so be aware of that!
Honestly, I can’t say I've worked with a 92mm AIO before, but I know that all CPUs come with TDP ratings. Your i7 8700k has a TDP of 95W, so you should look for CPUs rated at around that or lower.
Yeah, and don't forget about RAM! Upgrading that could also bring a nice bump in performance.