Do I need an aftermarket heatsink on my i5-2500k?

July 8, 2012 8:43:28 AM

Using coretemp I noticed that my CPU (i5-2500k) was running about 60c maxing 65c while playing BF3 for about 3hrs earlier. I do not have any heatsink on my CPU other than the fan that comes with the CPU from intel. My tower has 3 120mm fans in it but thats it. I keep it in the basement that is rather cool but I will be moving into a stuffy dorm this fall. I have plans to overclock in the future but I want to make sure I am completely prepared for it. Do I need an aftermarket heatsink and if so what do you guys recommend.
Thanks Joe

More about : aftermarket heatsink 2500k

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henydiah

CPUs Master

July 8, 2012 9:11:35 AM

still default, stock cooling enough for it

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s3anister

July 8, 2012 9:30:12 AM

joehockey90 said:

Using coretemp I noticed that my CPU (i5-2500k) was running about 60c maxing 65c while playing BF3 for about 3hrs earlier. I do not have any heatsink on my CPU other than the fan that comes with the CPU from intel. My tower has 3 120mm fans in it but thats it. I keep it in the basement that is rather cool but I will be moving into a stuffy dorm this fall. I have plans to overclock in the future but I want to make sure I am completely prepared for it. Do I need an aftermarket heatsink and if so what do you guys recommend.
Thanks Joe

Just for clarification, you do have a heatsink, the stock intel HSF (HeatSink Fan) is exactly that: heatsink and a fan, but I digress. Your temps are fine as is but if your temps start approaching 80C usually that's hot enough to shorten (or end - depends on the scenario) the lifespan of your CPU. Personally, if my temps start getting near 50C then the cooler isn't doing its job or the OC is too high (cooler temps = longer chip life).

The go-to CPU cooler is the Coolermaster Hyper 212+ EVO and it can be had for $35 (Link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... ). This is the cooler I'd recommend; it's cheap and an excellent performer.

If you want the absolute best The Noctua NH-D14 is the cooler to buy, but it comes at a premium of $90. (Link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... ) This thing is a beast and would allow you to get the highest on-air overclock from your processor; even though both coolers do an excellent job at cooling and would allow you to overclock if you so desire.

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