How to choose a CPU cooler ???

steveinspain · 2 Apr 2009 at 14:52

OK, just how do you choose which one to buy ?
Seems that every manufacturer makes between 3 and 8 different models to fit my processor ( LGA775) and prices seem to rise in steps of a few pounds..
I am thinking of a Sunbeam at just under £29, as it has decent reviews and is affordable -

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HS-000-TQ&tool=3

But as I have Noctua fans, am wondering if one of their coolers might be worth getting, but it is £48 - for the extra I could get me a new DVD drive.

Asaka have 8 different models to fit, going from about £10 to just over £31. Is the top of the range 3 times better, or is it down to looks ?
I want one as quiet as possible, as easy to fit as possible, I don't care what it looks like, but it must do the job, so am likely to go for the Sunbeam, but I am curious - just how do/did you choose which to buy ?
If looks matter, then fine, I can understand, but it seems that performance isn't always better on more expensive models, if we believe what we read.
I know it is personal, but having read as many reviews as I can, I am curious as to what made you pick the one you have..........!!

Derek W · 2 Apr 2009 at 14:59

steveinspain said:
OK, just how do you choose which one to buy ?

This is how i chose the one i did

http://forums.overclockers.co.uk/showthread.php?t=17991670

Need to sort out a few screens but its doing the job so far......one day after installation

strumpusplunket · 2 Apr 2009 at 15:03

I spent a while going over the charts at FrostyTech and looking for the cooler that balanced my need for quiet with efficient cooling.

Settled on the Scythe Zippang, and quite glad I did, because whilst it's not the best in terms of cooling it is still very competitive and importantly for me it's whisper-quiet even at high fan speeds.

If you look over their reviews and charts with your particular needs in mind, you'll soon find the right cooler for you.

steveinspain · 2 Apr 2009 at 18:21

I didn't know about frosty tech - thanks for that !
Seems I might be spending the evening reading up on, but it still seems strange that a company will sell 4 or 5 different models that seem to be almost the same in performance, just slightly different in price...

datawrite · 2 Apr 2009 at 22:12

Sunbeam would be my choice. You can always change the fan if need be. Has great reviews around the net.