Akasa vs StarTech.com: CPU Coolers Compared by Specs
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When you compare the akasa vs startech com CPU cooler options, you are looking at two distinct cooling solutions for different eras of hardware. Both units include a fan and heatsink to manage processor temperatures. However, their target systems differ significantly. The Akasa model supports modern Intel sockets with a higher thermal design power rating. In contrast, the StarTech.com unit is designed for legacy Socket 7 and Socket 370 processors. You must choose based on your specific motherboard compatibility and age of system.
Key differences
| Aspect | Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler | StarTech.com 65x60x45mm Socket 7/370 CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 1200/1151/1150/1155/1156/775 | Socket 7/370 |
| Fan Size | 92mm | 60x65mm |
| TDP Rating | 115W | not listed |
| Base Material | Copper | not listed |
| Fan Control | PWM | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler if
- You need a cooler for a modern Intel LGA 115x or LGA 1200 motherboard.
- You require PWM fan speed control for quiet operation under normal loads.
- You want a heatsink with a copper core base for improved heat transfer.
Choose StarTech.com 65x60x45mm Socket 7/370 CPU Cooler if
- You are building or maintaining a legacy system with Socket 7 or Socket 370.
- You need a compact fan size of approximately 60x65mm for small form factor cases.
- Your motherboard uses a TX3 connector for the fan power supply.
Verdict: The Akasa cooler is the practical choice for modern Intel platforms, offering broad socket support and active PWM control. The StarTech.com unit is strictly for vintage hardware, fitting only older Socket 7 or 370 systems. Match the socket compatibility to your motherboard to ensure the cooler fits.
Akasa vs StarTech Specs Comparison
Socket Compatibility
The Akasa cooler supports modern Intel sockets including LGA 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, and 775. It is designed for current and recent generation processors. The StarTech.com model targets legacy hardware, specifically Socket 7 and Socket 370. This makes the StarTech unit suitable only for very old systems. You cannot use the StarTech cooler on a modern motherboard. The Akasa model offers broad compatibility with Intel platforms from the last two decades. Your choice depends entirely on your CPU socket type.
Fan Size
The Akasa cooler features a 92mm PWM fan. This size is standard for many modern mid-tower cases and provides good airflow. The StarTech.com cooler has a smaller footprint with dimensions of 65x60x45mm. This compact size fits into older, smaller cases or specific legacy chassis. The 92mm fan on the Akasa unit allows for adjustable speed via PWM, which helps manage noise levels. The StarTech unit uses a TX3 connector, indicating a different control method. Larger fans generally move more air at lower speeds, favoring the Akasa design.
TDP Rating
The Akasa cooler is rated for a Thermal Design Power of 115W. This rating indicates it can handle the heat output of high-performance modern CPUs. The StarTech.com product data does not list a TDP rating. Given its small size and legacy socket support, it is intended for low-power processors from the late 1990s or early 2000s. If you are running a modern Intel Core i5 or i7, the Akasa unit is the only viable option. The 115W rating provides a clear benchmark for thermal management capability.
Build Material
The Akasa cooler uses a copper core base with aluminum fins. Copper conducts heat away from the CPU more efficiently than aluminum alone. This hybrid design helps dissipate heat quickly. The StarTech.com model description does not specify the materials used in its heatsink. It is listed simply as a black computer cooling device. The Akasa construction suggests better heat transfer performance. The copper core is a significant factor in cooling efficiency for the Akasa unit.
Weight
The Akasa cooler weighs 12.3 ounces. This weight comes from the copper core and aluminum fins. The StarTech.com cooler weighs 4.8 ounces. This lighter weight is due to its smaller size and likely simpler construction. The heavier Akasa unit may provide better thermal mass. The lighter StarTech unit is easier to handle during installation in tight spaces. Both weights are manageable for standard installation procedures.
Choose the right cooler for your system
Owner of modern Intel desktop computer
You need a cooler for recent Intel processors. This Akasa model supports LGA 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, and 775 sockets. It handles up to 115W TDP with a 92mm PWM fan. The copper core base and aluminum fins provide reliable heat dissipation for current generation CPUs.
Restorer of vintage Socket 370 PC
You are rebuilding an older system with legacy hardware. This StarTech.com unit is designed specifically for Socket 7 and Socket 370 processors. It includes the necessary TX3 connector for compatibility with vintage motherboards. Its compact 65x60x45mm size fits older case designs without modification.
User seeking quiet operation for light tasks
You prefer a cooler that adjusts speed based on CPU load. The Akasa PWM fan runs quietly under normal workloads. It uses a rolling bearing rated for 40,000 hours of service life. This low noise profile suits office PCs or media centers where sound matters.
The products compared
Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler
Best for: older Intel CPUs needing quiet cooling
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1200/1151/1150/1155/1156/775
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- TDP Rating
- 115W
- Material
- Copper
- Features
- Fan
- Dimensions
- 3.74 × 3.74 × 2.44 inches
View on Amazon: Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This Akasa cooler uses a copper base and aluminum fins to handle up to 115W TDP. The 92mm PWM fan adjusts speed based on CPU load. It fits LGA 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, and 775 sockets. You get easy installation with pushpins. This unit is designed for quiet operation during normal workloads.
Pros
- Copper core base for efficient heat transfer
- 92mm PWM fan for automatic speed control
- Rolling bearing rated for 40,000 hours
- Pushpin mounting for easy installation
Cons
- 92mm fan size limits maximum airflow
- No support for LGA 1700 sockets
- Heatsink height may interfere with RAM
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly cooler for older Intel sockets
- You prioritize quiet operation over maximum cooling power
- You want simple pushpin installation without tools
Skip if
- You use an LGA 1700 processor
- You have a high-TDP CPU exceeding 115W
- You need a low-profile design for small cases
Verdict: Akasa Copper Core 92mm CPU Cooler is a reliable option for users with older Intel platforms who need quiet, adequate cooling for 115W processors.
StarTech.com 65x60x45mm Socket 7/370 CPU Cooler
Best for: Socket 7 and Socket 370 retro builds
- Socket Compatibility
- Socket 7/370
- Features
- Fan
- Weight
- 4.8 ounces
View on Amazon: StarTech.com 65x60x45mm Socket 7/370 CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This StarTech.com cooler is built for legacy Socket 7 and Socket 370 processors. It measures 65x60x45mm and weighs 4.8 ounces. The unit includes a fan and uses a TX3 connector. It is designed for older systems requiring specific socket compatibility. You should choose this if you need a direct replacement for vintage hardware. It does not fit modern LGA or AM sockets.
Pros
- Supports Socket 7 and Socket 370
- Compact 65x60x45mm dimensions
- Includes TX3 connector
- Lightweight 4.8 ounces
Cons
- Limited to legacy Socket 7/370
- Small 65x60mm fan size
- No PWM support listed
Good fit if
- You are upgrading a Socket 370 system
- You need a TX3 connector
- You require a compact 65x60mm cooler
Skip if
- You have a modern LGA or AM socket
- You need high airflow for high TDP
- You require PWM fan control
Verdict: StarTech.com 65x60mm Socket 370 Cooler fits only Socket 7 and Socket 370 builds. It serves as a functional replacement for vintage motherboards needing a TX3 connection.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler | StarTech.com 65x60x45mm Socket 7/370 CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 1200/1151/1150/1155/1156/775 | Socket 7/370 |
| Fan Size | 92mm | not stated |
| TDP Rating | 115W | not stated |
| Material | Copper | not stated |
| Features | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 3.74 × 3.74 × 2.44 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces | 4.8 ounces |
| Model | AK-959CU | FAN370PRO |
| Size | not stated | 65x60x45mm |
| Color | not stated | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Which CPU cooler is better for an older Intel platform?
The Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler is the better choice for older Intel systems. It supports sockets like LGA 775 and LGA 1200, making it versatile for various generations. This model is designed to provide quiet cooling for processors with up to 115W TDP. In contrast, the StarTech.com unit is limited to legacy Socket 7 and 370, which restricts its use to vintage builds.
Does the Akasa cooler support modern Intel sockets?
Yes, the Akasa cooler supports modern Intel sockets. It is compatible with LGA 1200, LGA 1151, LGA 1150, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, and LGA 775. This wide range of compatibility allows it to work with current and recent generation processors. You can rely on this unit for newer platforms without needing a different heatsink for each socket type.
What is the StarTech.com cooler best used for?
The StarTech.com cooler is best used for retro builds involving Socket 7 and Socket 370 motherboards. It serves as a functional replacement for vintage systems that require a TX3 connection. Its small 65x60x45mm size fits older cases, but it is not suitable for modern CPUs. This unit is ideal if you are maintaining or restoring legacy hardware.
How heavy is the Akasa CPU cooler?
The Akasa 92mm Copper Core CPU Cooler weighs 12.3 ounces. Its dimensions are 3.74 inches in width and length, with a height of 2.44 inches. This weight and size profile is manageable for standard desktop cases. The copper core material helps dissipate heat efficiently while keeping the overall mass reasonable for mounting on older or lighter motherboards.
Is the StarTech.com cooler made of copper?
The provided specifications do not list the material for the StarTech.com cooler. It only specifies the color as black and the size as 65x60x45mm. The Akasa model, however, explicitly uses a copper core. If you require a copper heatsink for better thermal conductivity, the Akasa option is the clear choice based on the available data.
Can I use the StarTech.com cooler on an LGA 1151 socket?
No, you cannot use the StarTech.com cooler on an LGA 1151 socket. This unit is designed exclusively for Socket 7 and Socket 370. It lacks the mounting hardware and physical fitment required for modern Intel platforms. For LGA 1151 processors, you must choose the Akasa cooler, which explicitly lists this socket in its compatibility range.