I'm considering upgrading my CPU cooler and need some advice. I was initially looking at the Thermalright Aqua Elite V3, but I've heard it's not the best choice. Since I'm aiming to future-proof my setup for 1440p gaming, I think a liquid cooler might be ideal. I'm also torn between a Ryzen 7600X and the 7600X3D. I currently game at 1080p and do some content creation and Steam VR, so I want to ensure I make the right choice for both cooling and performance. Any suggestions?
1 Answer
You might want to check out the Thermalright Phantom Spirit. It's only about $35, and it can handle any gaming CPU you'll throw at it—plus, it tends to outlast liquid coolers. Air coolers generally offer better reliability than liquids, which can break down over time. If you want a cooler that lasts, this one’s a solid choice. You could also save the cash for a better GPU or power supply instead!
Sounds interesting! I haven't tried the Phantom Spirit, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is also a fantastic air cooler in that price range. It's super quiet and works great with modern chips. Liquid coolers can look cool, but they often have more moving parts and can be noisier, so consider sticking with air unless you're pushing it really hard.