The summary of ‘I Tested the SMALLEST Low Profile CPU Coolers!’

This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.

00:00:0000:19:08

The video discusses various low profile CPU coolers, emphasizing factors such as height, price, build quality, and cooling performance. Mentioned coolers include the ID-Cooling IS-30, Noctua L9a, MasterAir G200P, Thermalright AXP90R, Cryorig C7, and others. Installation challenges, performance benchmarks, and real-world usage scenarios are explored, with a focus on compact ITX cases. Notable coolers like the Noctua L9a and Iceberg Thermal are praised for their design and performance, while shortcomings of others, such as the Cooler Master G200P, are highlighted. The Noctua L9a is particularly lauded for its quality, cooling efficiency, and ease of installation, making it a top choice for ITX systems.

00:00:00

In this part of the video, the presenter discusses low profile coolers under 47 millimeters high. They compare different coolers, such as the ID-Cooling IS-30 and IS-40X V2. The ID-Cooling IS-30 is a compact 30mm cooler, while the IS-40X V2 is slightly larger at 45mm. The Iceberg Thermal Ice Flow T65 ITX, priced between $35 to $40, surprises with its build quality despite its initial appearance. The Noctua LH L9A and Cooler Master coolers are also mentioned as options around the $45 price point.

00:03:00

In this segment of the video, the focus is on discussing various compact CPU coolers. The Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 is highlighted as very slim at 37mm but may be pricier due to the chromax version. The MasterAir G200P is noted for its integrated RGB lighting but feels cheap for its price. The Thermalright AXP90R, a higher-end option, stands out for its full copper build and sturdy construction. The ID Cooling IS-47 features a unique design with the fan mounted underneath to draw in air from around the CPU socket. Lastly, the Cryorig C7 is praised for its premium build quality, although finding it at an affordable price can be challenging. The coolers are later sorted by height rather than price for comparison.

00:06:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the installation process of ultra-low profile coolers on ITX motherboards. They highlight the challenge of maximizing cooling potential in a small form factor without interfering with memory modules or VRM heatsinks. The speaker demonstrates the installation process, emphasizing the need to apply thermal compound, flip the motherboard, and balance the cooler for proper tightening. Different manufacturers have varying installation methods, with some utilizing back plates for better tension distribution. The speaker mentions a specific cooler, the Iceberg Thermal, as having a straightforward installation process using the existing AM4 backplate or included Intel backplate with four studs.

00:09:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the installation process of different CPU coolers. They praise a straightforward four-screw installation method while criticizing Cooler Master’s complex and outdated installation process. The speaker highlights the difficulty of sifting through numerous breakable components provided by Cooler Master. They mention the importance of simplicity in product design. The video also introduces the performance charts for cooler reviews, explaining how the temperature and noise levels are measured to evaluate the efficiency of the coolers. The results of testing different coolers at 65 watts show variations in performance, with shorter coolers like IS-30 and G200P differing from higher-priced options like Thermalright and Cryorig. The speaker highlights the T65 from Iceberg Thermal and IS40X V2 as budget-friendly options with good performance.

00:12:00

In this segment of the video, the Noctua L9a is highlighted as one of the slimmest coolers in the roundup, competing against thicker ones but struggling with cooling performance for CPUs at 95 watts or higher. The thermal performance of various coolers is evaluated, with the Noctua and Thermalright coolers standing out with some headroom compared to others. It’s noted that these benchmarks represent worst-case scenarios, but gaming cooling results at 95 watts are considered more realistic for ITX PCs, where the Noctua cooler continues to impress. The performance differences under varying load conditions are discussed, emphasizing the importance of considering real-world usage scenarios for CPU coolers.

00:15:00

In this segment of the video, the focus is on testing CPU coolers in small form factor cases. The coolers show a significant increase in temperatures when put into a small form factor case compared to a standard setup. The IS-30 in particular sees a 12 degree jump in temperature. Some coolers, like the IS-47K and G200P, perform poorly in this scenario, while others provide decent to impressive results. The Cooler Master G200P is criticized for being overpriced, underperforming, and having subpar mounting hardware. The Iceberg Thermal T65 is highlighted as a solid middle-of-the-pack performer, while the IS40X is recommended for lower heat loads and ease of installation in ITX cases.

00:18:00

In this segment of the video, the focus is on the Noctua L9a ultra low-profile cooler, which is praised for its performance and design. The cooler is described as almost perfect, combining small size, effective cooling, ease of installation, and impressive engineering into a compact unit. It is highlighted that in a case like the NAFD1, it can significantly boost performance. The speaker mentions upcoming coverage on low-profile coolers and invites viewers to share any specific requests in the comments for future videos.

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