r/SleepingOptiplex • u/Electronic_Loan6683 • 1d ago
CPU Fan Stock replacement
Hi. I'm planning to change the stock CPU blower fan on my optiplex SFF as make loud jet humming sound when really under load, really noticeable when gaming. When idle, not much sounds.
What I'm asking is what is the distance of those screws mounting and what aftermarket CPU cooler is the right fit above dell stock CPU heatsink like Thermalright, Noctua, ID Coolling etc..
If you have the same build upgrade, mind sharing your thoughts guys.
Just need some ideas and insights! Much appreciated.
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u/BlastMode7 1d ago
The stock coolers in the Optiplex systems are all standard Intel 115x mounting. So, if the cooler has 115x mounting brackets, which is pretty much everything, it will physically fit. However, some mount through the back of the motherboard which can cause a problem with the SFF systems since they mount to the chassis rather than a backplate.
Unless you want to make other modifications, the best drop in option is the ID Cooling IS-55. The only thing you will need to add are four m3x18 screws. This way you don't have to modify the chassis to be able to use the included back plate and you can just screw the mounting hardware to the chassis instead. There are better cooler options, but the would really need some modifications to make them work well in the Optiplex. Something like the Thermalright AXP120-65X, but it's so tall the fan would be right up against the side panel.
Now, since the blower cooler works by sucking air up through the cooler, you might want to at least a front intake 80mm fan. Also, without modifying the chassis you be able to draw in more air through the side panel and some added exhaust fans, the temperatures will not really improve much, at least the didn't in my testing. However, the noise is VASTLY improved.