I'm almost done with my PC build, but I just realized I haven't bought a CPU or a CPU cooler yet. I was told my build was good to go, but I'm uncertain about the absence of a cooler. Also, I've heard that my power supply (PSU) might not be great and could potentially cause issues for my hardware. So, do I absolutely need a cooler? I picked one randomly, along with a recommended PSU. Are my choices okay? You can check my new parts list here: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/6vqhcx and my old parts list here: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/Jcxb9C.
4 Answers
Definitely need a CPU cooler! The stock cooler that comes with Intel's CPUs is pretty basic and can be noisy. I recommend getting something like a single tower cooler, which costs around $15, or even better, a dual tower cooler for better performance. As for your PSU, I've seen worse, but quality really matters here. Stick to known brands like Corsair or MSI for reliability!
When choosing a PSU, make sure it's ATX 3.0 or 3.1 and check for a good rating on tier lists. Your cooler might be more powerful than needed, but it can be a good long-term investment if it cools better and is quieter. Do a bit of research to find the best options!
Yeah, you really do need a cooler because the default one is loud and not efficient. For power supplies, it's crucial to get a good one—spending an extra $10-20 can save you a lot of hassle later. Don't skimp on the PSU; it can make or break your build!
Your cooler looks decent, but I’m a bit concerned about your PSU; it's rated C-tier, which isn't ideal. If you’re in the US, for a little extra, you could switch to a better PSU and maybe save money on a similar cooler without RGB. Happy to help find better options if you're interested!
I’m based in the US Southeast, so I'd appreciate any suggestions!