Need a recommendation

jinscho · June 9, 2014

I made the jump from Windows 7 to Windows 8.1 with the deal that's been flying around the "hot deals" forum today (26 bucks... couldn't pass it up). Only downside, is now my CPU temps jumped ~8-10c on idle (44-48c) and I wasn't 100% happy with them prior to that(36-42c). So, I've decided it's time to jump into an AIO to help bring some of the temps down.

Unfortunately, my budget, socket,and case are going to cause a few restrictions:

Budget - $75

Socket - LGA775

Case - NZXT H230

I do have an Amazon Prime membership, so would love to take advantage of that if possible, but if I can find a better deal elsewhere I can wait a few extra days on shipping.

Thanks in advance!

The Crazed Child · June 9, 2014

You don't need an AIO, even a beefy air cooler would do.

But I'm still puzzled as to why Windows 8.1 made your CPU run hotter than when it had Windows 7. Can anyone here confirm that this is normal?

jinscho · June 9, 2014

http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/365180-28-windows-high-temperature

seems like a common issue.. I've also already looked into some bigger air coolers (I'm already using a Zalman CNPS5X Performa) and for the price I would pay for a higher end air cooler, I can get into a 120mm AIO. Not to mention, I deal with some higher ambient air temps during the summer months so any extra cooling performance will definitely help.