When choosing cooling, case and power products, consider CPU power, case space, noise and budget. This guide covers key points by category.
1. Air Coolers
- TDP: rated TDP should be ≥ CPU TDP with 30% headroom.
- Heatpipes & fins: 6+ heatpipes and dense, well-soldered fins perform better.
- Height: must be ≤ the case CPU cooler clearance.
- Mounting: support for current and future CPU sockets.
2. AIO Liquid Coolers
- Radiator size: 240mm for mid-high end, 360mm for flagship/overclocking - check case support.
- Pump & block: ceramic-bearing pumps are quieter and more durable; blocks with screens show temps.
- Fans: ARGB looks great; balance RPM and noise.
- Warranty: prefer 3+ years with leakage coverage.
3. PC Cases
- Compatibility: motherboard form factor, GPU length, CPU cooler height, PSU length limits.
- Airflow: front-in/rear-out standard; more fan mounts = more expandability.
- Build: steel ≥0.6mm is sturdier; tempered glass for side panels.
- Cable management: ≥25mm rear clearance eases routing.
4. Power Supplies (PSU)
- Wattage: (CPU + GPU TDP) × 1.5, with upgrade headroom.
- Efficiency: 80Plus Gold or higher saves power.
- Modular: full-modular for clean routing, semi-modular for value.
- Protection: OVP/UVP/SCP/OPP/OTP safeguards are essential.
5. Fans
- Size: 120mm is universal; 140mm moves more air more quietly.
- Airflow vs pressure: CFM for case cooling, mmH2O for radiators/obstructions.
- Bearing: FDB bearings are quiet and durable.
- Connector: 3-pin 5V for ARGB, 4-pin 12V for RGB - never mix them up.