I'm currently using a Ryzen 5900x CPU with a stock Cooler Master 120mm cooler in a prebuilt system. When gaming, it tends to hit max temps around 87 to 88 degrees. My case has two exhaust fans at the top and I've got room to install a larger cooling solution. I'm debating whether to upgrade to a 360mm AIO cooler, which would mean all three fans would exhaust air, or to go with a 240mm cooler and add an additional exhaust fan. I'm curious if the 360mm will also help keep the overall case temperature down and if that's worth it over the added exhaust fan with the 240mm. Hope that clarifies my situation. Thanks!
3 Answers
Honestly, if you're pushing 87-88 degrees under load, upgrading to a 360mm AIO should help manage your temps better. But remember, if you go with the AIO, you're relying purely on exhaust, which can be a bit risky for overall airflow. However, it’ll definitely cool the CPU more effectively than what you're currently using. Just keep an eye on the case airflow as a whole!
Before deciding, make sure to check if you can really fit a 240mm with an extra fan because radiators can take up more space than you'd think. If you can fit both and have decent airflow, that could work too! Plus, you can always add more case fans if you feel like it down the road.
Yeah, I’ll double-check the measurements. I just want to make sure I'm making the best choice for cooling without overcrowding the case.
Definitely go for something bigger than the stock cooler, especially with your Ryzen pushing those temps. If you can fit the 360mm and it cools effectively, I say go for it! But if space is tight, the 240mm and extra exhaust might be a safer bet for consistent airflow.
True, but don’t forget that having exhaust fans only might lead to pulling hot air back into the case if there's no intake. Make sure your airflow is balanced!