I5 2500k. Good Motherboard? And what's the best Cooler?

[mclovits]

Hello all. So recently I've decided to upgrade my processor from a Phenom II x4 965 at 3.9GHz, to an i5 2500k. The reason being that I have a huge bottleneck with my GTX 670 DirectCU II TOP. I think I have the motherboard figured out: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813157296 But then I only have about $60 for the cooler (I'd already have to get a second hand processor or mobo.) Currently I have a Corsair H50 in push/pull that I intend to give to my brother. I'm not sure what I should get in terms of a cooler. Maybe a Zalman 9900? Or Thermaltake Frio? I intend to overclock around 4.3-4.6 GHz. If you guys have any recommendations they'd be greatly appreciated. Also: Should I go for something like an older i7 860 I could get my hands on? or a 920? And I have an Antec 300 case if you guys were curious. Thanks!



-Justin

 

[crewton]

Pay the $10 more and get i5 3570k. You motherboard is good. If you want to get to 4.3 to 4.6 it won't even need a high end cooler. My hyper 212+ with just push keeps me 55-65C well below the 90C limit. I'd expect similar from the 3570k. If you really want to spend the cash Noctua NH-D14 >.> but something like COOLER MASTER Hyper N 520 $34 will do you just fine. Also, don't get an 860 or 920 they aren't worth it.

 

[mclovits]

Alright thanks for the response. If the computer I'm trying to sell finally does sell, then I'll be able to upgrade. And you think a Hyper 212+ would do a good job? Should I opt for push/pull as well and grab a Blade Master 120mm fan?

 

[crewton]

It's up to you. I'd just get the hyper n 520 I linked. $34 and free shipping is hard to beat for price/performance.

 

[spaceace1014]

If you want the BEST cooler then you'll need water or a refrigeration system... but The Noctua that was mentioned by Crewton is amazing if you want an air cooler.