GPU cooling

[metalgz]

Everything in my system is running really cool and airflow is not a concern for me for the most part but I am worried about my x1950xt with the stock cooler. Its not showing signs of heat damage but I feel that its only a matter of time at the pace its going, so I'd just like to know what are the best VGA coolers on the market right now. I'm limited in space because I do have a geminii, but theres plenty of clearance for a HR-03 with a fan. Also I looked at the new accelero but I haven't found many reviews from whom I consider unbiased sources albeit the ones I did find for it were talking about how great it was. Still, I'd like to know how you guys feel and hopefully someone here can make a suggestion for me.

 

[RallyMaster]

Thermalright HR-03 or the Accelero S1 (I'd throw a 92mm on that thing too) should do fine.

 

[KoolDrew]

What's yours budget? I bought a V-1 Ultra for my 7900GS and with two fans keeps it very cool. Bought it for only $12 too.

 

[metalgz]

i wont say non-existant but I wouldn't want to spend more money than I had to, but im leaning around 45-60 bucks

 

[BonzaiDuck]

If your ATI VGA is a recent model, and if it's compatible with the HR-03, I suggest the HR-03.

In earlier threads, I showed the results of some experiments with the HR-03-Plus (for nVidia 8800 GPUs), in which the addition of a fan and a duct for the HR-03-Plus brought the temperature to 42C where it stayed rock-solid during both idle and extensive game-play. Without the fan, it bounces between 51C and 55C, or will stay at 51C if the room ambient is 76F or lower.

The only drawback on the HR-03 coolers is the loss of space-in-case from the heatpipes and fins, but the cooler can be mounted two different ways for the same effect.

However, the Accelero also has a good track record. The V-1 Ultra -- another ThermalRight cooler -- is more than adequate for the 7600 through 7900 nVidia series. I have one on a 7600 GT card. The only drawback with it is that the heatpipes might interfere with the side-panel of some cases.

So I'd say your money is probably better-invested if you spend it on the HR-03 (provided it is compatible with your VGA.)