I'm working on an old Acer N50-620 pre-built gaming PC that I upgraded with an RX 6600 GPU. The CPU is an Intel i5-11400F. After I had the system cleaned up and the thermal paste reapplied, I was told the temperatures are generally fine, but they still seemed a bit high. An additional fan was installed in the case, but it's really loud, and I can't adjust its speed due to the limitations of the pre-built setup. When I unplug it, during CPU-intensive gaming like Spider-Man Remastered, the max temperature hits about 85°C, with typical usage around 65°C. With the fan, it lowers to a max of 75°C and about 61°C in regular use. I'm wondering: 1. Is 85°C too high for this CPU? Should I pay more attention to the average temps? 2. If I decide to upgrade the CPU cooler, which models are easy to install without too much hassle? I've heard good things about Noctua coolers, but I'm unsure about compatibility and installation.
1 Answer
85°C is pushing it, even for CPUs rated for up to 100°C. While it might handle it short-term, consistently running that hot can affect longevity. I suggest looking for a better cooler if you want to keep your CPU healthy for the long haul. You can fit most air coolers in your case, just check the height to avoid interference with RAM. Aim for cool air blowing sideways or out the top instead of down to the GPU.
Thanks for the advice! I’ve been watching a video on how to install a Noctua cooler, and it seems pretty easy. Do you think it will make a noticeable difference in temps?