I'm putting together a micro-ATX build with a Ryzen 9 9950X3D and really want to use an air cooler instead of an AIO due to their longevity and no risk of leaks. I was originally eyeing the DeepCool Assassin IV and the AK620, but it seems like they're out of stock everywhere. Any insights on that? I've got the ThermalRights Peerless Assassin 120 and Noctua NH-D15 G2 as backups, but the NH-D15 is pretty close to the max height limit for my case (Asus Prime AP201). I'd love to hear your suggestions!
2 Answers
With a cooler height limit of 170mm, you can definitely fit in one of the Thermalright options. I'd recommend the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130. Tom's Hardware rated it as the best air cooler they've tested! I'm using it with my Ryzen 9 7950X and it's been working great. Plus, it has larger, thicker fans that help with cooling. Just so you know, the Noctua NH-D15 G2 is pretty overpriced for what it offers.
If you're in the US, the DeepCool coolers might not be available anymore because of government sanctions from last year. A solid alternative would be to look at any dual-tower cooler with 120mm fans. The Thermalright PS120 is a standard recommendation, and if you can fit it, the PA140 could be a good option too.
Peerless Assassin 140 is pretty amazing.
Damn that sucks... wonder what they got sanctioned for... KodiKat recommended the Thermalright Royal Pretor, and I am seriously considering it.
Thanks mate! I will look into this. I wonder how it compares to AIOs.