Stock Vs. Aftermarket CPU Cooler: Which One Should You Get?

As you probably know, buying a new computer is sometimes necessary. You might be excited about upgrading your system, or perhaps you just need to purchase a new computer for work or school! Either way, you must decide between a stock CPU cooler and an aftermarket version. The choice is not easy, so here are some of the differences between each model.

Difference between Stock &Aftermarket CPU Cooler

It can be difficult to decide if you need to buy a stock or an aftermarket CPU cooler. Here is a comparison of the two types of coolers.

Stock CPU coolers are usually cheaper than aftermarket CPU coolers, but they may not be as effective. Aftermarket CPU coolers often have more features and better quality, but they may also be more expensive. It is important to decide which CPU cooler is best for your needs.

Aftermarket CPU coolers generally have more features than stock CPU coolers. They may include thermal sensors, fans, and water-cooling capabilities. Some aftermarket CPU coolers even come with software that allows you to customize the cooling fan speeds and temperatures.

Some people prefer stock CPU coolers because they are cheaper and easier to install. Others prefer aftermarket CPU coolers because they offer extra features and better performance. It is important to decide your needs before making a purchase decision.

What to Look for When Buying a Stock CPU Cooler

If you’re looking to buy a CPU cooler, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size of your CPU. Coolers for small CPUs usually don’t have large fans and are less expensive, while coolers for larger CPUs usually have larger fans and are more expensive.

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The second thing to consider is the cooling system your CPU needs. Some CPUs need air cooling, while others need liquid cooling. If you’re unsure which type your CPU needs, check the manufacturer’s website or ask someone at the store.

Another thing to consider is how much money you want to spend. Stock coolers range in price from around $10 to $30, while aftermarket coolers can cost as much as $100 or more.

What to Look for When Buying an Aftermarket CPU Cooler

When shopping for a CPU cooler, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, make sure the cooler is compatible with your motherboard. Some coolers are designed specifically for AMD processors, while others are more universal.

Next, consider the fan specifications. Some fans require a voltage boost to operate correctly, so check this before purchasing. Finally, consider how much money you want to spend on the cooler. Not all coolers are equally expensive, so it’s important to weigh all the factors before deciding.

Features to look for in an aftermarket CPU cooler

There are a few features if you’re looking for an aftermarket CPU cooler.

First, make sure the cooler can fit your CPU. Most aftermarket coolers are designed to fit CPUs up to Intel’s LGA1150 socket, but some may also work with AMD’s AM4 socket.

Second, consider the price. Some coolers are more expensive than others but generally offer better performance.

Third, consider the noise level. Many aftermarket coolers are quite loud, so make sure you’re comfortable using them in your environment.

What are the Benefits of Stock CPU Coolers

There are many benefits to choosing a stock cooler over an aftermarket model if you are in the market for a new CPU cooler. Stock coolers tend to be cheaper and more effective than aftermarket coolers.

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Some of the benefits of using a stock CPU cooler include the following:

  • Cheaper than aftermarket coolers.
  • More effective at cooling your CPU.
  • Can be installed quickly and easily.

What are the Benefits of Aftermarket CPU Coolers

Using an aftermarket CPU cooler has many benefits compared to a stock CPU cooler. Aftermarket coolers often come with more features and flexibility, allowing for better cooling and overclocking. Here are some of the benefits of using an aftermarket CPU cooler:

1. Better Cooling – Aftermarket coolers often have more fan speeds and heat pipes than stock coolers, which allows them to produce more airflow and dissipate more heat. This results in better cooling performance overall, especially when it comes to overclocking.

2. More Flexibility – Aftermarket coolers often come with extra mounting options and a wider variety of compatible processors. This means that you can customize your cooler to fit your specific needs, including the type of processor and RAM installed on your system.

3. Better Overclocking Performance – Aftermarket coolers often have higher thermal limits than stock coolers, allowing you to overclock your system further without risking damage or overheating. This also makes overclocking easier, as you won’t need to worry about damaging your stock cooler.

Cons of Stock CPU Cooler

Stock CPU coolers are generally cheaper than aftermarket CPU coolers, but there are several cons to consider before making a purchase. For one, stock coolers often do not perform as well as aftermarket coolers in terms of cooling efficiency.

Additionally, many stock coolers are made from lower-quality materials that can be prone to breaking or failing over time. Finally, stock coolers may not be suitable for high-performance applications such as gaming or overclocking since they may not be able to keep up with the demands of these types of tasks.

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Cons of Aftermarket CPU Cooler

A few potential cons to consider when choosing an aftermarket CPU cooler. The first is that they can be more expensive than stock units. Another potential downside is that some aftermarket coolers may not be as effective as others, resulting in higher energy bills.

Additionally, some aftermarket coolers may not be compatible with certain motherboards or other hardware, so it’s important to check before making a purchase.

Features to look for in  Stock CPU Cooler

If you’re looking to buy a CPU cooler, there are a few features. The first is the type of cooling it offers. A stock CPU cooler usually provides basic cooling, while an aftermarket cooler might offer more features like fan speed control or dedicated water cooling channels.

Another important factor to consider is the price. Depending on the features included, aftermarket coolers can be cheaper or more expensive. If you’re just looking for a basic cooler, don’t need any extra features, or don’t want to spend too much money, an aftermarket option may be better suited.

However, an original stock CPU cooler may be better suited if you’re looking for a more premium cooler that will offer extra cooling benefits or customization options.

Conclusion

Aftermarket CPU coolers are a great way to get your system running cooler and more efficiently. However, there are two aftermarket CPU coolers: stock and custom. Stock coolers are designed to work with the original cooling solution on your computer, while custom coolers can be made to fit any specific need you have.

If you’re not sure which type of aftermarket CPU cooler is best for you, I suggest reading our article on the different types of aftermarket CPU coolers to make an informed decision.


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Matt Wilson
By Matt Wilson

Matt Wilson is a PC gaming and hardware expert with years of experience. He's a trusted tech product reviewer for gamers and tech enthusiasts.


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