Processor AMD FX 8350 8Core Black Edition

Processor AMD FX 8350 8-Core, Unlocked, Black Edition. AMD's next-generation architecture takes 8-core processing to a new level. Get up to 24% better frame rates in some of the most demanding games, at stunning resolutions. Get faster audio encoding so you can enjoy your music sooner. Go up to 5.0 GHz with aggressive cooling solutions from AMD. What Is In The Box: CPU, Heat Sink and Fan(E3), Thermal Paste is already applied on the Heat Sink, FX Bezel Sticker.

Maximum Performance

- The industry's only 8-core desktop processor

- Overclock with easy to use AMD Overdrive technology and AMD Catalyst Control Center software suites

- Supreme power available from virtually every core configuration - also available in 6- and 4-core variants

- Aggressive performance for mega-tasking and intensive applications like video editing and 3D modeling

Innovative Architecture

- The industry's first and only native 8-core desktop processor for unmatched multitasking and pure core performance with "Bulldozer" architecture

- New 32 nanometer die shrink designed to reduce leakage for improved efficiency, increased clock rate headroom and improved thermals

- Can deliver cores and performance you need without raising the power requirements

HyperTransport Technology

-One 16-bit link at up to 5600MT/s

- Up to 8.0GB/s HyperTransport I/O bandwidth; Up to 16GB/s in HyperTransport Generation 3.0 mode

- Up to 37GB/s total delivered processor-to-system bandwidth (HyperTransport bus + memory bus)

AMD Virtualization (AMD-V) Technology with IOMMU

- Silicon feature-set enhancements designed to improve the performance, reliability and security of existing and future virtualization environments by allowing virtualized applications with direct and rapid access to their allocated memory.

- IOMMU is an extension to AMD64 architecture to support address translation and access protection on DMA transfers

- Security for User Level application and Virtual Machine guest operating system

- Address translation and access control

AMD FX 8350 8 Core Black Edition

Review :

After getting my CPU installed and Arctic Silver applied to the CPU (I also used a water cooling system instead of the stock fan) I turned on my computer after getting everything hooked up again... When I ran GTA 5 & Fallout 4, Everything just loaded so much faster than my AMD 6350. So, less time staring at loading screens, more time enjoying games makes me very happy.. FPS actually did improve slightly, I have a GTX 970 4GB GPU before the upgraded cpu I was lucky to get 35-40 FPS in First Person games on Ultra settings. Now it's closer to 55-63 Frames per second in 1080p So, without question my old 6350 was the bottleneck.

I might update this review When I get DOOM & No Man's Sky, to see if those bleeding edge games work well with an 8350. The thing I love about AM3 chips, I don't have to upgrade my Motherboard because AMD doesn't change sockets like dresses.. Seriously can INTEL not come up with a new socket for an entire year?

Back to the 8350, it's been on for at least 9 hours straight, no temp issues, current core temp 33 C on idle.. max 45-48 C in games..

This is a solid CPU If you want a rock solid performer that can play DOOM and other intense new games, along with a proper GPU.

Small criticism: the packaging This CPU was in (not the retail box, the shipping box) was anything but acceptable. the chip was right up against the cardboard. Thankfully no one dropped the box, as far as I can tell, the box had no dings.

Memory Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 DRAM 3000MHz C15 Desktop Memory Kit

Memory Vengeance LPX memory is designed for high-performance overclocking. The heat spreader is made of pure aluminum for faster heat dissipation, and the eight-layer PCB helps manage heat and provides superior overclocking headroom. Each IC is individually screened for performance potential. The DDR4 form factor is optimized for the latest Intel 100 Series motherboard and offers higher frequencies, greater bandwidth, and lower power consumption than DDR3 modules. Vengeance LPX DDR4 modules are compatibility-tested across 100 Series motherboards for reliably fast performance. There's XMP 2.0 support for trouble-free automatic overclocking. And, they're available in multiple colors to match your motherboard, your components, or just your style

Technical Specification :

Capacity : 16GB

Ram Size : 16.384 MB

Memory clock Speed : 3000 Mhz

Memory Storage Capacity : 8 Gb

Number of Items : 2

Number of Pins : 288

RAM Memory Technology : DDR400, DDR 3 2400

RAM Type : DDR4 SDRAM

Available Color : Red, Blue, Black, White

Review by : 

Theodore king

I purchased a 2x8 GB package. This memory performs at 2133MHz and 2400MHz at 1.20V. When left on auto, however, the voltage recorded in CPUID HWMontior reaches a constant and stable 1.344V while set to 2400MHz. Setting the XMP profile to active my system will not boot reliably and the BIOS behaves incredibly sluggish, pointing toward the 1.35V setpoint for the XMP profile being too low. 

I do not truly have a need for 3000MHz and purchased this because it was a few bucks more than the other 15CL kits. I was planning to manually use 2666 or 2800 or even 2933MHz to leave some headroom to avoid the ceiling of these chips, but the same thing happened at 2800MHz.

I will work on this at a later date and I may improve my rating at that time. This is not a bad kit and the timing increase from 2133MHz to 3000MHz only changes the absolute timing from 14.06 nanoseconds down to 10 nanoseconds (a 29% increase in synthetic tests).

System

Case: Cooler Master HAF X

MoBo: ASUS Z170-A ATX

CPU: Intel Core i5 6600K

CPU Fan: Zalman CNPS9700

Memory: Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 3000 C15 2x8GB

GPU: EVGA GeForce GTX 1070 FTW

PSU: EVGA Supernova G2 850W

SSD: Samsung 850 EVO 250GB

Memory HyperX FURY Black 16GB Kit (2x8GB) 2133MHz DDR4 Non-ECC CL14 DIMM

Memory HyperX FURY DDR4 can handle even the toughest battle. It automatically recognizes its host platform and overclocks to the highest frequency published (up to 2666MHz1) - so you can wreak havoc. FURY DDR4 runs at 1.2V, even at 2666MHz, so it stays cooler while you play. You don't need to alter the voltage to reach higher speeds, which means there's more power for other hardware in the system. FURY's sleek, asymmetrical black heat spreader provides enhanced thermal dissipation to help keep your cool and help you stand out from the crowd. It complements Intel's 6- or 8-core processors for faster video editing, 3D rendering, gaming and AI processing. FURY is affordable and available in kits with capacities up to 64GB in black - which means you can meet your fate in style. It's backed by a lifetime warranty, free technical support and legendary reliability.

Memory Feature :

• Easy to install - plug-and-play functionality
• Automatic overclocking - reach faster speeds and highercapacities just by installing the memory, no adjustments inBIOS needed
• Cost-efficient - the perfect combination of price and DDR4 performance
• Unique - asymmetrical, signature FURY heat spreader
• Design - low profile, black heat spreader color andmatching PCB
• Reliable - 100% factory tested
• Compatible - tested with all popular brands of motherboard
• Guaranteed - lifetime warranty, free technical support

Technical Specification :

Capacity : 16 GB

RAM Size : 16 GB

Memory Clock Speed : 2,133 MHz

Number of Items : 2

Number of Pins :240

RAM Memory Technology : DDR4 2133

Size : 16GB Kit (2 x 8GB)

RAM Type : DDR4 SDRAM

Review :

Put in a z170M board, this RAM works very well. Installation and operation was very smooth and easy. I'd highly recommend this RAM. Just make sure that you know the difference between desktop and laptop RAM, and DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4 before purchasing. Read the manual or search the internet for your model computer/motherboard to make sure this is compatible. 

CPU Cooler Master V6 GT CPU Cooler with Two 120mm PWM Fans and 6 Heat Pipes

CPU Cooler Master V6GT follows in the footsteps of the revolutionary V8 and V10 CPU coolers from Cooler Master. Designed with a muscular engine look, the V6GT fits nicely with any performance hardware. The V6GT also features new mechanical structure that includes: V-shaped heatpipe array, asymmetrical aluminum fins (which are densely stacked for optimal cooling), two 120mm silent fans with PWM speed control function and DynaLoop™ long life technology, snap-on cover to conveniently replace fan if needed.

Features :

• Densely stacked asymmetrical tilted aluminum fins for muscle cooling performance.
• "Double-V" heatpipe array helps spread out the six heatpipes to fully utilize the cooling fins on the cooler. It also allows airflow to reach each individual heatpipe as opposed to traditional coolers.
• Accelerating twin high-speed PWM fans with tool-free fan boxes deliver invincible cooling capability.
• Engine oil cap controls the LED strip with color changing function.
• DynaLoop™ Bearing Fan: Innovated self-lubricating bearing mechanism decreases oil-loss commonly seen on sleeve bearing fans. Evolutionary wave blade fan provides tremendous airflow with steady pressure.
• Snap-on cover to conveniently add a second fan if needed.

Specifications :

• Model RR-V6GT-22PK-R1
• CPU Socket Intel Socket LGA1366 / 1156 / 775
• AMD Socket AM3 / AM2+ / AM2 / AM3+ / FM1 / FM2
• Dimension 131 x 120 x 165 mm 5.2 x 4.7 x 6.5 inch
• Heat Sink Material Copper base / Aluminum fins / 6 heatpipes
• Heat Pipes Dimensions Ø6 mm
• Fan Dimension 120 x 120 x 25 mm
• 4.7 x 4.7 x 1 inch
• Fan Speed 800- 2200 RPM (PWM)
• Fan Airflow 34.02 - 93.74 CFM (per fan)
• Fan Air Pressure 0.43 - 3.30 mmH2O (per fan)
• Fan Life Expectancy 40,000 hrs/25 °C
• Bearing Type DynaLoop™ Bearing
• Connector 4 Pins
• Noise Level 15 ~ 38 dBA
• Rated Voltage 12V DC
• Start Voltage 6V DC
• Operating Voltage 6 ~ 13.2V DC
• Rated Current 0.45A (0.7A Max. per fan)
• Input Power 5.4W (8.4W Max. per fan)
• Warranty 2 years

Review Product By :

By Iain Fixieon

I picked this up to go with my HAF-932 Case, the style of the cooler matches the case perfectly. Installation was not as complicated as others have written about either on here or elsewhere. Install took me all of 15 minutes, and I didn't even have to remove my motherboard.

Power for the LED is supplied via a Molex connector, both fans plug into a "Y" adapter to plug into the PWM as a single cable. One thing that would be wanted here is maybe some labeling or markings on the fans so you know which one is which. Although When I pulled the fans off for the first time I stuck a sticky note to each one with its direction and orientation written down.

Alright, here is the REAL information that you guys want.

Right now I am running a Q6600 Intel Core2Quad stock speed at 2.4ghz, with everything set to stock my idle temps are around 20-25 C. Full load- 30-40 c.

I went ahead and stepped my CPU up about 10% (2.4ghz->3.0Ghz) Idle temps changed to 24-35 and full load was about 45-55. Compared to the $20 cooler I had in there previously (idle 35-40, load 50-70-freeze) This is a MAJOR improvement, there may be a newer model of this out now, but I love this cooler. Aside from the fact that it looks pretty radical, it has a decent heft and weight. Do not be worried about your motherboard or the fact that you are hanging a massive box off your cpu slot as the mounting hardware keeps everything distributed and even. The parts supplied will fit a rather large range of CPU sockets from AMD to Intel (775 and up). I am glad I got this heatsink as I will be moving it up to when I upgrade my motherboard/cpu again here soon.

In my honest review I would give this product a 9/10

Pros:

Epic cooling

Great looking

dual fans/better airflow

Instantly noticeable temperature differences.

Cons:

Instruction book is for lack of a better term "friggin retarded"

Wish there was marking on the fans indicating direction of airflow

Only 3 LED color choices. (red, blue, Purple)

Included in this review is an image of the heat sink installed and ready to go!

(Ignore the messy cableness, my cable management sleeving is coming in Friday xD)

Well thats my review, should you buy this? If you are looking for advanced air cooling and frigid temps then I give a full fledged hell yes!

Graphic Card MSI R9 390 GAMING 8 GB

Graphic Card MSI R9 390 GAMING 8 GB MSI’s Twin Frozr V Thermal Designs are equipped with ZeroFrozr technology which was first introduced by MSI back in 2008. ZeroFrozr technology eliminates fan noise in low-load situations by stopping the fans when they are not needed. Compared to other graphics cards, there is no continuous hum of airflow to tell you there’s a powerful graphics card in your gaming rig. This means you can focus on gaming without the distraction of other sounds coming from your PC.

With every new generation of GPUs comes more performance. With every new generation of MSI Twin Frozr we give you less noise and heat!. We’ve listened to all your requests and the new Twin Frozr V is smaller, features stronger fans, generates less noise, keeps your graphics card and its components cooler and matches perfectly with your MSI GAMING motherboard including some funky LED lightning. We’ve spent 18 months on the development of the Twin Frozr V, including field testing in gaming cafés to ensure the cards have the quality and stability to give you the FPS you need.

Advanced Dispersion Blade design generates 19 per cent more airflow without increasing drag for supreme silent performance.

Technical Specification :

• Screen Resolution     : 4096 x 2160 pixels
• Max Screen Resolution  : 4096 x 2160
• Processor                     : 1040 MHz
• Memory Speed             : 6100 MHz
• Graphics Coprocessor     : AMD Radeon
• Chipset Brand               : AMD
• Graphics Card Ram Size : 8 GB
• Card Interface               : PCIe 3.0 x16
• Memory Type                : GDDR 5

Review By :

J. Hahnon 

Style: R9 390X GAMING 8G

This review will be both about the R9 390X in general, and about MSI's implementation of it.

R9 390X

PRO: Great performance on top titles as of Late 2015. Able to do things like almost max Witcher 3 or Crysis on a 1080p monitor @ 60hz, or run CS:GO effortlessly on 1080p @144hz. Expect to max basically any game at 1080p.

CON: Relative to its nvidia competitors, this card eats a lot of power. It's also fairly large in terms of heat generation. You'll need a solid PSU and a good fan/cooler on it, as well as good case airflow. Some people have issues with the drivers, though I ran into no problems.

THOUGHTS: People call this baby a GTX 980 killer, and given how cheap it is relative to the 980, they're not wrong. This fits perfectly into the "around $400-$450 " price range and you get what you pay for. This is probably the most expensive card you can buy while maintaining reasonable performance/price.

MSI's Implementation:

PRO:

* Goods fans. MSI's Twin/Zero Frozr setup provides a lot of cooling, which you will need on an AMD card. Also, since the fans can spin down to zero it's pretty nice.

* Good Stock OC. MSI brings in with 1100MHz Core and 6.1GHz Memory. Even if you leave it completely alone, you have a high-performing card.

* Good port selection. 2x DVI, 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort is just about right for my needs. You can drive several beefy monitors without the needs for converters. Some card manufacturers shy away from the builky DVI ports but not MSI.

* Good card construction. The card is stiff with little sag and the backplate holds it together well and inspires confidence. The rear panel slides in easily and the power connector and CrossFire pins are easy to access.

* MSI Afterburner lets you change clock settings.

CON:

* MSI decided to stick a HUGE cooler on this card and their overclock is turned up to 11. I really like this! But it comes with downsides. This thing NEEDS a case with good airflow, because unlike a reference card, it doesn't include an exhaust. The fan just pushes the air into the heatsink, and it's up to your own case to bring in air and push it out of the case. If you have bad airflow this card is a bad choice.

* Also, since MSI turns the OC up to 11, this thing draws a ton of power. It doesn't matter to me since I have a 650W PSU but they recommend at least that on the box and they're not joking, This guy can get like 300W of power consumption.

* Also it's big, heavy, and takes up room in the case, but that's par for the course for these things.

THOUGHTS: You need good airflow, due to the heat, and since MSI pulls no punches on their OC, this will eat a lot of power. It's worth it, though, and this card is reliable and powerful.

Right now, it's a great buy. It maxes basically every game I've put in front of it, and runs Crysis 3 pretty well at max settings. at 1080p. Since it has 8gb of VRAM it should perform well at 4K, too.

I recommend this card.

Graphic Card MSI GTX 1070 QUICK SILVER 8G OC

Graphic card MSI GeForce GTX 1070 QUICK SILVER 8G OC twin frozr VI thermal design raises the bar of graphics card air cooling. Torx fan 2.0 is the enhanced version of the Patented torx fan technology which generates 22% more Air pressure for better cooling performance while further reducing noise levels. The new fans are equipped with double ball bearings to ensure lasting smooth and silent operation. Connected to the huge heat sink are 8mm copper heat Pipes with a squared shape at the bottom for optimal heat transfer from the solid nickel-plated copper baseplate combined with premium thermal compound x to keep the pascal powerhouse cool.

Technical Specification :

• Graphics Card Interface : PCI-E
• Graphics Card Ram : 8 GB
• Graphics Ram Type : GDDR5
• Hardware Connectivity : PCIE x 16
• Item Dimensions         : 5.51 x 10.98 x 1.65 in
• Memory Bus Width : 256 bits
• Memory Clock Speed : 1,797 MHz

Review By: 

Byziad.mron February 17, 2017

what i think:

good clock speed with no problems, stable and cooler temperature compare to others company's standards, performance always as good as you would expect from 1070 but with a bit more more improve things like [core clock, cooling and noise level] that what makes msi special, what i like about quick silver edition is the look making it compatible with most builds unlike traditional red color and finally no more waiting for limited edition colors.

the good

good overclock ability, temperature average is 67 degree in high load gaming unlike other cards average 7x degree

and this card almost silent while in gaming and high load usage.

the bad

price per performance can be competed and does not justify it compared to cheaper cards (1070)

last words

this not my first MSI GPU and not planned to be the last

good product highly recommended it when the price goes down

Processor 7th Generation Intel Core i7-7700K

Intel Core i7 7700K 7th Gen

Leading the pack is the Intel® Core™ i7-7700K processor. Architected for performance, this processor packs 4 high-performing cores with core base frequency of 4.2GHz and 8MB of cache memory. Kick up the performance even higher with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 to bump the max turbo frequency to an amazing 4.5GHz. Add Intel® Hyper Threading Technology for 8-way multitasking to deliver the performance knockout punch. Not enough? For the enthusiast, this processor is unlocked, you can tweak the performance to its fullest potential.

The new 7th Gen Intel® Core™ desktop processors deliver:

An impressive portfolio of standard and unlocked processors, from Intel® Core™ i7 to Core™ i3, offering levels of performance for a broad range of usages.

Intel® Optane™ memory with intelligent software provides performance improvements as well as fast app response times for system acceleration and responsiveness.1

Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 on Intel® Core™ i7 and i5 processors to give that extra burst of performance when you need it.1

Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology1 allows each processor core to work on two tasks at the same time, improving multitasking, speeding up the workflow, and accomplishing more in less time.

Extends DDR4 RAM memory technology in the mainstream, allowing systems to have up to 64GB of memory and high transfer speeds at low power compared to DDR3 (DDR4-2400 MT/s @ 1.2V vs DDR3-1600 MT/s @ 1.5V).

Enhanced full range base-clock settings1 that provide more control, more granularity for overclocking4 your platform - when paired with the Intel® Z270 chipset, that also allows you to tune key aspects of your system including cores, power and memory.

7th Gen Intel® Core™ processor-based desktop PCs are packed with new and enhanced features to deliver amazing experiences that a 5-year old PC can’t handle.

Great VR experiences involve the entire platform not just any one component. Processor, graphics, I/O connectivity, display, audio, are all involved. A high performance processor is key to achieving a balanced platform to make a VR experience great. Attach your premium HMD to an Intel Core i7 or Core i5-based computer and prepare to be amazed.

Gaming experience today extends beyond smooth gameplay. Gaming today is about you and your community. Share your experience by live-streaming or recording, editing and posting your epic highlights. To be at your best, you need the best performance PC, powered by the Intel® Core™ i7 processor that lets you live the ultimate gaming experience.

To play premium movie streams in stunning Ultra HD 4K, you’ll need a computer that supports the latest media technologies. Desktop computers based on the 7th Gen Intel Core processor can support the latest media technologies required to enjoy premium high-quality content:

HEVC 10-bit encode/decode, VP9 10-bit decode for:

    ○  Smooth streaming of premium 4K entertainment

    ○  Full-size screen, immersive viewing experiences with 4K video and 360˚ viewing

    ○  Incredible 4K video creation to share with ease

Support for Rec.2020, delivering wide color gamut (WCG) for lifelike, deeper color

Watch 4K HDR movies with Ultra HD Blu-ray for brilliant clarity and luminance

Intel® Quick Sync Video technology accelerates most video capabilities, allowing users to create and share in real time and multitask without interruption.

Specification :

Performance :

Number of Cores  :4

Number of Threads :8

Processor Base Frequency : 4.20 GHz

Max Turbo Frequency : 4.50 GHz

Cache 8 MB SmartCache

Bus Speed 8 GT/s DMI3

# of QPI Links 0

TDP 91 W

Memory Specifications: 

Max Memory Size (dependent on memory type) 64 GB

Intel® Optane™ Memory Supported ‡ Yes

Memory Types DDR4-2133/2400, DDR3L-1333/1600 @ 1.35V

Max # of Memory Channels 2

ECC Memory Supported ‡ No

Graphics Specifications

Processor Graphics ‡ Intel® HD Graphics 630

Graphics Base Frequency 350.00 MHz

Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency 1.15 GHz

Graphics Video Max Memory 64 GB

4K Support Yes, at 60Hz

Max Resolution (HDMI 1.4)‡ 4096x2304@24Hz

Max Resolution (DP)‡ 4096x2304@60Hz

Max Resolution (eDP - Integrated Flat Panel)‡ 4096x2304@60Hz

DirectX* Support 12

OpenGL* Support 4.4

Intel® Quick Sync Video Yes

Intel® InTru™ 3D Technology Yes

Intel® Clear Video HD Technology Yes

Intel® Clear Video Technology Yes

# of Displays Supported ‡ 3

Device ID 0x5912

User Review By Crafter, USA

I finished my new Kaby Lake build 2 weeks ago using this new 7700K. I have it paired with an MSI Z270 Gaming M7 motherboard, 32GB Corsair Dominator SE 3200mhz (Cas14) Memory, Intel 600p NVMe M.2 Boot Drive, EVGA GTX 1080 FTW Hybrid, and finally being cooled with a Corsair H115i. Everything installed perfectly along with drivers and software, and all the hardware plays seamlessly together.

I retired my 5 year old Ivy Bridge i5 3570K that was running at 4.5ghz, and this has been a significant upgrade for gaming. I have this 7700K clocked currently at 4.9ghz, with 1.32V. and XMP enabled. This chip doesn't even break a sweat at this speed. Even under full 100% load in the Intel torture test software, temps haven't exceeded 70C. But just keep in mind, I'm running an H115i cooler with Corsair ML140 fans. Your results may vary depending on your cooling solution.

I'll echo what others have stated in other reviews here and other sites, if you're already on a Skylake CPU, going with a Kaby Lake wouldn't be much of an upgrade....unless you're simply looking for higher overclocking potential (which is certainly here with these new CPUs). Most people doing new builds with these Kaby Lake chips are coming from older Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge builds.

If you're considering building a new gaming PC, this is the CPU to get right now. It is extremely fast, and over clocks like a champ while still maintaining relatively cool temps.

Mainboard ASUS PRIME Z270-A LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI DVI M.2 USB 3.1 Z270 ATX

Ready for 7th generation Intel Core processors, the Prime Z270-A delivers maximum performance with customizable style. 5-Way Optimization provides intelligent auto-tuning and dynamic fan calibration, AURA Sync RGB lighting and 3D printing mounts customize your build, while Dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Type-A/C deliver maximum transfer speeds.

Using 5-Way Optimization to automatically tailor overclocking profiles to your unique build, the Prime Z270-A delivers 1-click overclocking and dynamic system cooling for maximum OC performance. Known for its Artic White highlights, the Prime series motherboards combine beauty and power into a totally redefined gaming experience.

Dedicated 3D mounts on the motherboard makes fitting 3D-printed parts easy. Using the same screws as M.2 drives and standard motherboard mounting holes, you can easily add nameplates, cable covers, or an M.2 fan holder in a matter of moments.

Specification :

• Memory Slot 4 x DIMM; Max. 64GB DDR4
• Maximum Capacity 3866MHz (OC)
• Graphics Output HDMI/DP/HDMI
• PCIe 3.0 x16  2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (@x16 or x8/x8) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (max. @x2)
• M.2 1 x 22110 (PCIe 3.0 x4 & SATA) 1 x 2280 (PCIe 3.0 x4)
• USB 2 ports @ PCIe 3.0 x2 Rear: 1 * Type-A + 1 *Type-C
• ASUS Aura Sync RGB Lighting  Yes (with 1*Aura RGB Strip Header)

Review By :

CCHon

Style: Z170-A

DISCLAIMER: I purchased the Z170-AR, the same exact model as the Z170-A except for a lack of onboard analog video ports.

Setup:

I'm currently running this motherboard with an Intel Boxed Core I5-6600K 3.50 GHz, 6 M Processor Cache 6 for LGA 1151 (BX80662I56600K) to replace my 4-year-old i3-2100.

Accessories:

Inside of the box ASUS includes the usual accessories, including 3 SATA cables, manual, and I/O shield. Also included is an SLI bridge, as the board is certified for dual-SLI in an x8/x8 configuration, and a screw for the M.2 slot, a CPU installation tool, and a Q-connector.This CPU installation tool is supposed to make installing the CPU easier; I happily dropped my CPU in without it, but perhaps new builders would be interested. The Q-connector is a single connector that makes front-panel connection much easier to plug in: Simply plug all those tiny cables into this connector, then plug the entire block onto the header.

Design:

When choosing a new motherboard, I was torn between this motherboard and the similarly priced, very aesthetically pleasing MSI Z170A Krait. A few factors made me choose this board:

1. The right-angled SATA ports, which means that I can utilize all of the SATA ports even with two long video cards extending past the PCI-E slot

2. The inclusion of a USB Type-C connector, which can provide up to 100w of power through USB PD (the MSI only includes a Type-A connector

3. Previous experience with Asus' hardware and software.

Overall the board looks really great installed into my (sort of) black and white themed system. There is a white LED trace light on the left side to highlight the PCB separation of the audio section which can be turned on and off in the BIOS. One thing that you must pay attention to: If you have a case such as my NZXT S340, with a fan on the back with very little clearance from the I/O ports, you may need to remove the white decorative shield which is covering the I/O section of the board. The expansion slot spacing is perfect for my dual-CrossfireX system, with one slot of space in between the two cards, and adequate spacing between the top of the card above and my rather large CPU air cooler (Cryorig H7). The motherboard includes plenty of fan options, including two CPU fan headers (CPU_FAN and CPU_OPT, note CPU_OPT cannot be voltage controlled), 4 chassis fan headers, and 1 pump header, for water coolers. I'm not a particularly big fan of the position of the chassis fan headers, particularly the two that are positioned on the left side of the motherboard, far from any grommets or cable management holes in most cases. Other than that, not too much else to say here; an adequate amount of SATA, USB 2.0, and USB 3.0 headers are provided for any normal user.

Software:

I've had a good amount of previous experience using ASUS' UEFI BIOS. Here ASUS includes plenty of features, such as fan control via 3-pin voltage control and 4-pin PWM and options for setting fan curves, and an auto-tuning utility to find the settings for each individual fan. This goes hand in hand with ASUS' AI Suite software, which can provide the same tweaking functionality within Windows.

Overclocking:

On the lower right of the board is a TPU dip switch, which is on the "off" position by default. Setting it to the first setting (TPU I, for air coolers) will enable an approximately 4.3 Ghz overclock. Using ASUS' built-in Five-way Optimization feature to generate an automatic overclock and fan tuning, I was able to push the CPU up to 4.7 Ghz with the click of a button. After some manual tweaking I eventually settled on a 4.6 Ghz overclock at 1.360v. This motherboard has no problems delivering higher voltages to enable higher overclocks.

Conclusion:

Overall the ASUS Z170-A/AR is no doubt my first choice Z170 motherboard in its price range in respect to its wide range of functionality and flexibility. Before this purchase I'd never spent more than $100 on a motherboard, but in my opinion it was well worth the purchase.

CPU Cooler Cooler Master RR-910-HTX3-G1 130-Watt 92mm Hyper TX3

Cooler Master RR-910-HTX3-G1 130-Watt 92mm Hyper TX3 CPU Cooler for 775/1156/AMD/AM2/AM3.

Cooler Master’s Hyper TX series has evolved alongside with today’s demanding mainstream CPUs. Cooler Master now releases a milestone product the Hyper TX3, Cooler Master’s first-ever air cpu cooler that is compatible with Intel LGA 1156 socket. The Hyper TX3 also re-release the original and effective direct contact heat-pipe design to ensure excellent heat dissipation.

Product Features :

• Flexible mountings for multiple sockets

• Maximum compatibility with CPU wattage of over 130W TDP. Three direct contact heat-pipes with aluminum fins provide excellent heat dissipation.

• Optional second fan may be installed to increase cooling performance.

• 92mm PWM fan with wide RPM range and anti-vibration rubber pads.

• Silent CPU cooler with 17 dB-A at minimum speed.

Technical Details :

• Brand Name: Cooler Master

• Model: RR-910-HTX3-G1

Review By Stephen Jensen (Frisco, TX) :

Is this the best cooler money can buy? Of course not, it's $20. But is this probably the best value cooler w/o spending $50+? I'd be hard pressed to find a better one. My basic setup: AMD Athlon II X4 630 (2.8 Ghz mild overclock for now to 3.2 Ghz), MSI mb, 2 GB DDR2 ram, XFX ATI 5750. With the stock heatsink and fan at this O/C my idle temp was ~ 32-34 C, at load around 52-54 C. Not a difficult install, instructions are terrible but for an AM2+, AM3 chip it's quite easy with no tools, and do NOT have to remove the motherboard from the case (can not speak for Intel chips), just takes a little common sense although the thermal grease supplied is pretty bad (like rubber cement). Anyways after the TX3 was in place my idle temps are now at 22-24 C and at load 36-38 C. I'd say for a $20 cooler that isn't too loud, that's a pretty good result.

Review By Unicorn (The Woods) :

I've recently built an AMD Athlon II 425-based computer (a certain regional electronics retailer well-known for their CPU or motherboard combos made an offer I could not refuse. What I paid for the CPU works out to less than forty dollars.) Naturally, and like most other people who choose to assemble their own PCs, I could not resist the allure of overclocking. Of course, stock cooling solutions are adequate for... well, cooling the CPU at stock settings. Since all modern CPUs have great overclocking potential but get quite hot when doing so, I wanted to upgrade my cooler.

After some searching, I found the Cooler Master Hyper TX3. In keeping with the philosophy of my build (buy the product at the point where performance just about stops increasing linearly with the price), I made the purchase, and the product arrived at my doorstep a few days later. Cooler Master has elected to use plastic blister packaging for the Hyper TX3. It was easy to open, and required no scissors, which is a refreshing change from most packaging of this type. 

I received the universal version of the cooler, meaning my version of the TX3 supports Core 2 as well as Core i5, along with pretty much all Athlon 64s and above (Athlon 64, Athlon 64 X2, Athlon II, Phenom, Phenom II.) The cooler does not require installation of a motherboard backplate for use. Since this is a smaller cooler, it uses Intel's standard push-pins or AMD's clips to remain secure. Cooler Master has apparently revised the TX3 recently; previous versions used a clip to secure the 92 mm fan to the heatsink. This clip received VERY mixed reviews (Yes, I do mean VERY - some reviews were absolutely glowing while others had the deepest contempt I have ever seen. Okay, maybe the reviews were not that extreme, but I did see a lot of love and a lot of hate.) The new fan retention mechanism is made of plastic. The fan is secured to the plastic mount with screws, and the mount itself snaps onto the cooler. Rubber pads are used to dampen fan vibrations. Also, this revision apparently makes the gap in between the heatpipes and aluminum smaller, which is always a welcome change.

The TX3 comes with one 92 mm fan, but comes with all the necessary accessories required for attaching a second 92 mm fan for a push-pull configuration. Cooler Master also included a tube of thermal paste, which is a nice touch, though I elected to use Arctic Silver 5 instead. I did search online to see how good Cooler Master paste is, and although it is not as good as AS5, it does easily beat the thermal pads that come default with many heatsinks.

Now, as for installation... I can only comment on AMD. Installing the TX3 was not as easy as the stock heatsink, as the TX3 is larger, leaving less room for your hands to maneuver. Additionally, I chose to go with a micro ATX case and motherboard, leaving me even less room. Whereas the push-pins for Intel are attached solidly to the heatsink by screws, the clips for installation into AMD-based systems are only secured when you finish installing the heatsink. Before installation, the clips are kept in place mostly by gravity. They're also two pieces, so when you're fumbling around in a small space trying to install the TX3, you might bump a clip off the heatsink.

This cooler is about 140 mm tall, according to my measurements, so it'll fit into any standard ATX-width case with millimeters to spare. I've seen some comments (complaints?) about the TX3 using a 92 mm fan as opposed to a 120 mm fan. For a cooler in this price range, I am not sure if those complaints are valid. Remember, the stock AMD fan uses a 60 mm fan and spins at over 3000 RPM. I'm going to guess Intel uses something very similar. This cooler is 92 mm and spins at 2800 RPM maximum. Beats stock, yeah?

As for the part everyone cares about. Performance beats stock, of course. Keep in mind I am using a micro ATX case. Also, I'm providing CPU temperatures, not core temperatures. The diodes used for monitoring core temperatures are not accurate at lower temperatures. They're built into the CPU for throttling (they save your CPU from becoming an expensive key chain holder.) Idle temp stock is 38 to 40 degrees Celsius, depending on time of day. TX3 is able to do 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Full burn from Prime95, stock reaches 71 degrees Celsius, while the TX3 keeps it under 53. I've since overclocked my CPU from 2.7 GHz to 3.41 GHz. Max temp I've seen in Prime95 is now 58. Not bad for $20. Your results will vary depending on what thermal paste you use, how well you've installed the cooler, whether or not you overclock and how much you overclock, how well air flows in your case, what else you have in your case (buff graphic car) and so on.

Well, I'm happy. Great cooler. You can buy this and be unhappy at the small stuff like how the part of the heatsink that makes contact with the CPU isn't perfectly flat, but you have to remember this is a budget cooler, and also a perfectly flat heatsink is just a means to an end. You buy a heatsink because it cools better than stock, not because it has a perfectly flat surface. A perfectly flat surface might cool better, but then again, how much better? Remember, this cooler has direct contact heatpipes, so there is going to be some gaps. The heatpipes and the aluminum also have different coefficients of thermal expansion, so maybe the surface does get more flat when it's in use ;p. Also, does a "nonsmooth" direct contact cooler beat a mirror-finish non-direct-contact cooler? Think about it!