Advise on Zalman coolers

[flashing-blade]

Hi, I've been thinking of getting a Zalman heatsink, but its weight concerns me.

As I understand it AMD recommends nothing heavier than 300g, but this one is 462g.

I just wanted to know, has anybody had any problems or issues with exceeding the recommended maximum?.

Thanks...

[morriswindgate]

Honest to goodness they are just a neat looking waste of money. For all the current AMD CPU models you cannot beat the Speeze FalconRock HSF (9 bucks +shipping on Newegg). It is very quiet and does a great job cooling.

[Cricket]

Why are you interested in the Zalman? If it's because you're looking to quiet down your computer, the Zalman would work fine but the Speeze FalconRock morriswindgate mentioned is a much better value and will work fine.

If you're thinking of overclocking your system, the Speeze FalconRock would be a better choice. Zalman's aren't good overclocking heatsinks.

Cricket

[flashing-blade]

Hi guys, yeah noise is the issue really.

I've just been loking at those Speeze you mentioned and the FalconRock has a noise level of 25 dBA, I was looking for something a little quieter.

I have found an "Artic CoolerCopper Silent" one that only emits 20dBA.

I may go with this one instead, or are they no good?.

[Blakhart]

If noise is the issue, look into watercooling. Much quieter if done right.

[QuickSilver]

Maybe it's just me, but I don't have a very high opinion of Speeze coolers, too cheepish IMHO.

[Cricket]

Originally posted by QuickSilver Maybe it's just me, but I don't have a very high opinion of Speeze coolers, too cheepish IMHO.

The FalconRock isn't like a typical OEM style heatsink (the kind most of the Speeze line is like...those smallish, square all aluminum heatsinks...sort of like the OEM style Cooler Master heatsinks)...it's a big, heavy heatsink with a copper insert on the bottom. It's very well made and doesn't look or feel cheap at all. Yes, it's very reasonably priced, but that doesn't mean it's a piece of junk.

Cricket

[TwoRails]

Agreed with Cricket and others who like the Speeze. I've used them and also recommend them. I was sold on them at a local shop when I had to get very close to one to even hear it... and yes, my ears check out fine

[oddjob]

Originally posted by flashing-blade I have found an "Artic CoolerCopper Silent" one that only emits 20dBA.

I've seen one of these, great units. I have one of their case fans in my machine and it is quiet. Here's a link to their site.