Hey everyone! I recently upgraded to a 7800x3d CPU paired with a Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE cooler, all housed in a Fractal Design Focus G case. I'm finding that the CPU runs quite hot, and while I've set a static fan configuration (40% for the cooler's fans and 30% for the case fans), I'm wondering if there's a better way to optimize the cooling. I've run tests like Cinebench and Prime95 for 30 minutes without reaching critical temperatures, so I'm okay with the noise level for now. However, I'm curious if adjusting the fan positions could improve cooling. Currently, my setup doesn't have much intake pressure due to the case design, particularly since the CD drive bay isn't removable. Would changing the configuration help, or could it make things worse? Here's a look at my current and potential setups: [current setup](https://imgur.com/YT4DeAc) and [potential setup](https://imgur.com/rzDREe8). What do you all think?
4 Answers
I think if you go with option 2, the heat from your GPU could rise and affect the CPU cooler. How’s your PSU mounted? If it's fan-up, that could help get some heat out of the case.
I'd suggest sticking with your current setup and maybe try flipping the front fan at the top to intake. It could help based on tests from Noctua showing better cooling performance that way. Just a thought!
I actually tried flipping my front fan to intake with a different CPU and it didn't make much of a difference. Though I had a 5600, which is definitely cooler than the 7800x3d. Might vary for you!
Have you thought about creating a duct on the HDD tray to better direct airflow to the CPU? That’s a cool solution that could help enhance cooling without a complete overhaul!
Switching to an intake fan setup can work, especially in compact builds where airflow isn't great, but it might increase noise since fans will have to work harder against opposing airflows. You're also considering flipping the top fan in front of the cooler to intake, which could work, but watch out for airflow circulation issues.
Yep, my PSU is mounted with the fan facing down, so I'm not sure it would help much with airflow. My GPU's pretty efficient too; it doesn't get over 60C even under loads.