I'm planning my first full PC build in roughly 8–10 years, and I've noticed that newer builds seem to use fewer radiators and all-in-one coolers than I remember. Is that because modern fans and air coolers have improved, or because current CPUs and GPUs run cooler? Are AIOs still a good choice for either component, or are they mostly an aesthetic preference now?
I'm also looking for suggestions for a stand that can keep a desktop tower off the carpet without taking up desk space. I'd rather not leave it directly on the floor, where carpet could restrict airflow or collect dust.
4 Answers
AIOs haven’t disappeared; they’re simply competing with much better air coolers. Affordable AIOs are still available, and larger radiators can be reasonably priced, so either option can work. For a typical CPU, the decision is often about case compatibility, noise preferences, appearance, and whether you want to avoid having a pump as another possible failure point.
GPU AIOs are much less common than CPU AIOs. Most graphics cards already come with large heatsinks and several fans, so their built-in cooling is usually adequate. GPU liquid cooling is more useful for compact builds, unusually hot cards, or custom projects where reducing noise and temperatures is especially important.
For keeping the tower off carpet, a sturdy wheeled PC stand or a small open platform with a solid base works well. Make sure it supports the entire case, leaves the front and rear ventilation unobstructed, and is wide enough that the tower cannot tip. Avoid placing the case directly on a thick rug or using a narrow stand that blocks the bottom intake.
CPU AIOs are still pretty common, but good air coolers have become much more capable and affordable. A cooler such as the Thermalright Phantom Spirit can perform similarly to many 240 mm AIOs while costing less and avoiding pump noise or pump failure. For most systems, air cooling is the practical choice, while AIOs can still make sense if you prefer the appearance or need extra clearance around the CPU socket.
That makes sense. The last time I built a system, large tower coolers were much less common, so it sounds like air cooling has improved quite a bit.
Good to know. I’ve used AIO cooling before and had a positive experience, so I may consider it again for the new build.