How much does OCing cut down your computers life?

[eryx24]

I heard that overclocking reduces your computers life span but I was wondering how much because Ima build a new computer soon and I'm planning on overclocking the e8400 3.0ghz processor. Also, how much cooling would I need to overclock it to about 4ghz? The case I'm getting has 2 big 240mm fans on the side of the computer but I'm not sure if itll be enough since I'm new to building and overclocking.

Case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811103011

 

[V3NOM]

i would recommend a xigmatek HDT-S1283 + the backplate on a budget, or the sunbeamtech core contact freezer... both available on the egg for half the price of similar performing traditional coolers

as for lifetime, assuming you stay within 1.3625 voltage intel recommends, years! it will last for much longer than you will be using it :lol: ... ie you will have a new system because the e8400 is out of date before it dies..

 

[eryx24]

Do I have to buy a cooler for the CPU? Also, I know the computer will last years but what I meant is how much does overclocking cut down the lifespan of it.

 

[Liderc]

No one knows how much OC'ing will affect the lifespan of your CPU, as long as you don't overvolt it, it will last much longer than you'll ever need it. For a rough estimate, which has no data to back it up, I'd say your CPU would last 10 years at stock and if it was OC'd it would probably only last 8 years.

If you want to overclock, it's always intelligent to buy an aftermarket cooler. I'm not sure if you can reach 4Ghz with the stock cooler on the 8400, I would assume no.

 

[cadder]

Voltage AND heat are factors. My theory is that a CPU with good aftermarket cooler and some overclock would last as long as the same CPU at stock speed with stock cooler.

 

[eryx24]

I see, can anyone recommend a cheap but decent cooler? I'm already over my budget..btw these are my specs.

Intel Core 2 Duo 3.0Ghz
Asus P5Q
Evga GTX 260 896MB
Seagate 500GB HD
Kingston Hyper X 4gb ddr2 800
PC Power & Cooling 750W

and the case link is posted up there.

 

[the last resort]

Xigmatek S1283 and backplate