What is the best CPU heatsink for me?

greathelp

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Sep 9, 2011
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You guys have been awesome at helping me out, I thank you very much!
I am getting some hot temps on my i7 3770 with the stock fan so I want to upgrade to an aftermarket heatsink. I am planning to spend around $30. My case is horrible and the backside of the case does not have a hole for the backplate, I dont think that should change anything but I just want to make sure. I would have to remove the motherboard to install the backplate and heatsink right? I will provide some pictures to give you an idea of how much room I have inside. Thanks!!! :D

http://imgur.com/C8qsxxN

http://imgur.com/Im5SjDq
 

pauls3743

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That looks a pretty standard setup, except for the heatsink retainers. You've got them in the release position, this means the heatsink is hardly putting any pressure on the cpu. Turn the heatsink retainers 90 degrees right, push them home until they click (you will have to push very hard) and run the system again. After that, report back with your new temps.
 

greathelp

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Sep 9, 2011
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Wow Im surprised I missed that, thanks for catching it! I fixed it but the idle temps dont seem any different so will I still be able to install a different heatsink & fan? Like I said, I dont have a hole at the other side of the computer (for backplate), is that fine?