Hey folks! I'm looking for some guidance on choosing the best cooling solution for my new PC. Here are the details:
I've got a Core Ultra 7 265k CPU, which usually runs around 155W, paired with an MSI RTX 5070 Inspire, and all the other components listed here. I mainly use my PC for productive work like CAD, 3D projects, and also enjoy some 1440p gaming.
I'm not super keen on overclocking, but I'd like to dabble a bit. Good airflow is important to me for dust management, and I'm also trying to save some cash to put towards more storage. I'm not fussed about aesthetics since my case will be closed up, and I'm looking for a reliable, low-maintenance solution that will last as I plan to upgrade my system down the line.
I've owned a water-cooled PC since 2015, and while I haven't had major issues, it does seem to be getting a bit slower, which might relate to the cooling.
Here's what I'm considering:
- For AiOs, I've narrowed it down to the Arctic Freezer III 240 top-mounted or the 280 front-mounted, both around €40.
- For air coolers, I'm a bit lost! Some options I've looked at include the Noctua NH-D15 for €110, the Thermalright Royal Pretor for €50, and an AF 36 for about €40.
Any thoughts or recommendations on which way I should go? Thanks in advance!
2 Answers
I've been using Noctua coolers for about four years now with my 5800x, and they're solid! I added more Noctua case fans recently, and they're super reliable—no leaks, great performance, and they run quietly without any flashy RGB nonsense.
If you're using the Core Ultra 7 265k, you might want to consider a 360mm AIO, like the Arctic Liquid Freezer III 360mm. It can handle higher loads without needing to throttle the CPU, plus it comes with the option to enable the 200S Boost profile in BIOS for some overclocking potential.
Do you really think the 280mm AIO wouldn’t be enough? I heard it might fit tight in my case if I install it the right way.
Thanks for the recommendation! Which Noctua model do you have?