Out of the cheap CPU coolers, which is the quitest?

pergrenerfors · Post by **pergrenerfors** » Wed Dec 02, 2009 12:52 pm

I need to replace the standard Intel 775 cooler with something cheap.

It's for a HTPC running Ubuntu used to play movies in VLC. The budget is small because it's not my computer, it belongs to the community of tenants where I live. My function is merely to keep things working at a low cost.

Antec 3480 mATC case
Stock Tri-Cool fan @ lowest setting
Intel E2200 @ stock speed
XFX 630i motherboard

Right now I'm leaning towards the ARCTIC COOLING ALPINE 7 92mm CPU Cooler. So far I've been letting the BIOS control the fan speed automatically, which seems to work well acoustically.

AuraAllan · Post by **AuraAllan** » Thu Dec 03, 2009 8:04 am

Welcome to SPCR, pergrenerfors

A fanless Scythe Ninja is probably your best bet.
Maybe you can get a cheap used one somewhere.

swivelguy2 · Post by **swivelguy2** » Thu Dec 03, 2009 8:12 am

The Xigmatek line of HDT (heatpipe direct-touch) coolers is also extremely effective for the price. Several have been reviewed on SPCR.