Gaming

Upgrading the CPU cooler in a small form factor PC significantly reduces operating temperatures

Replacing the stock CPU cooler in a small form factor (SFF) PC with a more robust Thermalright AXP120-X67 model significantly lowers CPU temperatures during intensive gaming. Initial testing in the Fractal Ridge case revealed that the original cooler struggled with heat recirculation, causing the CPU to reach temperatures between 83°C and 90°C while running Resident Evil 4 and Cyberpunk 2077. The new cooler, which features a larger surface area and a more effective airflow design, improved thermal performance by approximately 20°C to 25°C under similar conditions. Smoke testing confirmed that the new configuration successfully draws more fresh air through the side panel, preventing the hot air recirculation observed with the previous setup. This upgrade allows the CPU to maintain higher clock speeds without requiring a reduction in power limits, providing a more consistent gaming experience. The installation of the new cooler was achieved within the existing chassis constraints, demonstrating that minor hardware adjustments can yield substantial thermal improvements in compact builds.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

Replacing the stock CPU cooler in a small form factor (SFF) PC with a more robust Thermalright AXP120-X67 model significantly lowers CPU temperatures during intensive gaming. Initial testing in the Fractal Ridge case revealed that the original cooler struggled with heat recirculation, causing the CPU to reach temperatures between 83°C and 90°C while running Resident Evil 4 and Cyberpunk 2077. The new cooler, which features a larger surface area and a more effective airflow design, improved thermal performance by approximately 20°C to 25°C under similar conditions. Smoke testing confirmed that the new configuration successfully draws more fresh air through the side panel, preventing the hot air recirculation observed with the previous setup. This upgrade allows the CPU to maintain higher clock speeds without requiring a reduction in power limits, providing a more consistent gaming experience. The installation of the new cooler was achieved within the existing chassis constraints, demonstrating that minor hardware adjustments can yield substantial thermal improvements in compact builds.

Replacing the stock CPU cooler with a Thermalright AXP120-X67 reduced CPU temperatures by 20°C to 25°C. Smoke testing confirmed that the new cooler design significantly improves airflow and reduces hot air recirculation.

The improved thermal performance allows the CPU to maintain higher clock speeds without needing to lower power limits. The Fractal Ridge case provides sufficient clearance for the larger 120mm cooler, provided cables are rerouted.

The original cooler caused the CPU to reach temperatures between 83°C and 90°C during intensive gaming sessions.

Chapter guide

Problem identificationThe creator discusses the thermal limitations of their current SFF PC build.Case and cooler overviewAn examination of the Fractal Ridge case and the currently installed Thermalright AXP-90 X53 cooler.Unboxing the replacement coolerThe creator unboxes the Thermalright AXP120-X67 and assesses its compatibility.Smoke testingA visual test using smoke to analyze airflow patterns with the original and new coolers.Performance comparisonComparison of CPU temperatures and clock speeds between the two cooling solutions.

Worth noting

  • The thermal improvements were observed in a specific SFF case (Fractal Ridge) and may vary depending on chassis airflow and ambient room temperature.
  • The creator notes that the original cooler was not necessarily faulty, but rather underperforming due to the specific constraints of the build.

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