SLK-800 vs MCX426 and PAL8045

[DataChief]

I currently own a couple pal8045s and mc462s. I like the way they mount, using the 4 holes and springs and stuff, both safe and effective.

Everyone says the Thermalright SLK-800 cools a lot better though, and im wondering if I made the right choice when I bought 2 of them for 2 new systems

Using the same exact fan, anyone have a clue how much cooler the SLK-800 would be? Also, is the pal8045 better than swiftech's newest MCX462-u? Just wondering about this kinda stuff. Cooler reviews usually suck. I don't see why they test them with different fans and stuff. If they tested a bunch of 80mm heatsinks with the same 80mm fan, it would be a lot nicer!! Also, there just seems to be a lack of many cooler roundups on hardware sites

Sound is not an issue, I will be using a Vantec (Sunon) 84cfm fan on the heatsinks . Lucky there is a wall between me and the 4-5 computers i use


The only thing im concerned about is installation. Is the clip on the SLK-800s decent? Will I need to exercise extreme caution? Does the clip automatically adjust to the correct needed pressure on the core? I try to stay away from clips as much as possible, but I'm just wondering if they've gotten any better!

If anyone that's installed an SLK-800 can give me some input/guidance, i would appreciate it very much!! Thanks ahead of time!

 

[blade]

Cooler reviews usually suck. I don't see why they test them with different fans and stuff. If they tested a bunch of 80mm heatsinks with the same 80mm fan, it would be a lot nicer!!

Funny you mention that point, see this review. Compares the SLK800, SLK600 and the AX-7 all using the same exact "silent" fan.

I've never used those other heatsinks you mentioned, mostly because I hate removing the mobo to install a heatsink. If I didn't change alot for testing I might feel different. But I doubt it. It's too much trouble, me thinks.


The clip on the SLK800 is fine and the great thing about it is it has a 3 prong clip. Many heavy heatsinks have just a 1 prong clip. Before installing it try several flathead screwdrivers and chose one that fits the slot on the clip the best. An improper fitting screwdriver could mean a slip, and that ain't good. But with one that fits, slipping is not an issue. I have installed the slk800 and took it off at least 10-12 times so far and I've never had a problem. Attach the rear clip first then while holding the rear clip with one hand (a finger), insert screwdriver in the front slot... press down and away on the front clip with the screwdriver and guide it gently over the front 3 mobo catches. It really is easy.

It doesn't "automatically adjust to the correct needed pressure on the core" but that isn't necessary. It's a slightly "springy" clip. One more thing worth mentioning is when one has this heatsink is to be sure it's moved more towards the rear and not the front. It is a slim heatsink so it is easy to have it moved too far upfront and that could mean the heatsink slightly overhanging the front plastic on the mobo, something I did at first. Once I figured out what I did I corrected the placement and that lowered temps by 10-14 degrees.

I am very impressed with it. And it can take either a 60, 70 or 80mm fan. I even fit a 92mm on it.

 

[Goi]

I think the nod goes to the new Thermalright. Check out this review with the cold hard numbers.

However, if you already have the 8045 and mc462, don't worry about it, you still have 2 of the best coolers in the market.