The Best MITXPC CPU Coolers in 2026: 2 Picks

Quick picks

Our 2 picks

1 Best overall

Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler

Best for: Threadripper and EPYC builds

Socket Compatibility

sTRX4, TR4, SP3

TDP Rating

280W

Material

Aluminum

Features

Fan

Dimensions

6 × 4 × 3 inches

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The Dynatron A38 is an aluminum heatsink with side fan support for Threadripper and EPYC processors. It handles up to 280W TDP. The unit measures 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inches. It includes pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease. This cooler suits users needing broad socket compatibility in a compact form factor.

Pros

• Supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets
• Rated for 280W TDP
• Pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease
• Aluminum heatsink with side fan

Cons

• Aluminum construction limits heat dissipation compared to copper
• Side fan design may restrict airflow in tight cases
• Dimensions are 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inches, which may not fit all small form factor cases

Good fit if

• You need a cooler for Threadripper or EPYC processors
• You require support for up to 280W TDP
• You want pre-applied thermal grease for easy installation

Skip if

• You prefer copper heatsinks for better thermal performance
• You need a top-down fan design for better case airflow
• You have a case with limited height clearance below 2.56 inches

Verdict: Dynatron A38 Aluminum CPU Cooler is a practical option for Threadripper and EPYC builds needing 280W TDP support in a compact aluminum design.

2 Best server

Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler

Best for: 1U server builds with ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T

Socket Compatibility

LGA4926

TDP Rating

250W

System Type

Server

Server Height

1U

Material

Copper

Features

Vapor Chamber

View on Amazon: Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler Affiliate link

This is a passive air cooler built for 1U server chassis. It uses a copper vapor chamber to handle up to 250W of heat dissipation. The unit measures 4.72 by 3.23 inches and stands just 1.09 inches tall. It comes with Shin-Etsu X23-8079-2 thermal compound pre-printed on the base. You should choose this if you need a low-profile solution for an ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T Ampere Altra system.

Pros

• Copper vapor chamber construction
• Supports up to 250W TDP
• Pre-printed Shin-Etsu X23-8079-2 thermal compound
• Fits 1U server height constraints

Cons

• Passive design requires external case fans
• Limited to LGA4926 socket compatibility
• Only supports specific ASRock Rack motherboard

Good fit if

• You are building a 1U server chassis
• You use an ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T motherboard
• You need to dissipate up to 250W of heat

Skip if

• You need active fan integration
• You use a different socket type
• You require a standard desktop cooler

Verdict: Dynatron W5 1U Copper Vapor Chamber Cooler is a specialized passive cooler for 1U servers using the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T motherboard. It fits users who need to manage 250W of heat in a tight 1.09-inch height constraint.

Specifications side by side

The MITXPC lineup at a glance

You can choose between two distinct design paths. The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler supports SP3 sockets and fits Threadripper or EPYC builds. It measures 4 by 3 by 6 inches and handles 280W TDP in a practical aluminum tower. This option suits desktop builders who need active cooling in a compact space. It includes a fan for direct airflow. The Dynatron W5 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler targets 1U server racks. It uses a copper vapor chamber and measures 4.72 by 1.09 by 3.23 inches. This passive unit manages 250W of heat without moving parts. It fits tight server chassis where airflow is limited. Choose the aluminum tower for general desktop use. Select the copper vapor chamber for specialized 1U server environments.

Who MITXPC Coolers Suit

MITXPC targets two specific niches with its current range. You can choose between a compact side-fan aluminum cooler for desktop workstations or a passive copper vapor chamber unit for 1U servers. The lineup spans from the 1.09-inch height of the W5 server cooler to the 6-inch length of the A38 desktop model. This spread leaves gaps for standard ATX tower coolers or RGB lighting options. If you need a low-profile solution for a Threadripper build or a silent passive cooler for a 1U rack, this brand fits. Otherwise, you may need to look elsewhere for different form factors.

How to Choose the Right MITXPC Cooler

1. Match the Socket

   You must verify socket support before buying. The Dynatron A38 is built for SP3 sockets, which are used by Threadripper and EPYC processors. This compatibility ensures the mounting hardware aligns with your motherboard's holes. If you are using a different socket type, this specific model will not fit. Check your CPU's official socket specification to confirm it matches the cooler's listed compatibility. Using the wrong cooler can lead to installation failures or poor thermal contact. Always double-check the socket list in the product specifications.

2. Check TDP Limits

   Ensure the cooler can handle your processor's thermal design power. The Dynatron A38 supports up to 280W TDP, which is necessary for high-end desktop workstations. If your CPU generates less heat, this cooler will still work but may be overkill. Conversely, if your CPU exceeds this limit, the aluminum fins may not dissipate heat fast enough. Look for the TDP rating in the product details. Matching the cooler's capacity to your CPU's power draw ensures stable temperatures under heavy loads without unnecessary noise or size.

3. Consider System Type

   Your case and use case dictate the cooler style. The Dynatron W5 is designed specifically for 1U server builds. It is a passive unit, meaning it has no fan. This makes it ideal for environments where silence is critical or where case fans provide airflow. It is not suitable for standard desktop gaming PCs. If you are building a compact workstation, the side-fan A38 is a better choice. Identify whether you need active cooling or passive dissipation based on your system's airflow and noise requirements.

4. Measure Height Constraints

   Physical dimensions are critical in small form factor builds. The Dynatron W5 has a height of just 1.09 inches, fitting into tight 1U server chassis. The Dynatron A38 is larger, measuring 3 inches in height. You must measure your case's internal clearance to ensure the cooler fits. If you choose the A38, ensure there is enough room for the side fan. If you choose the W5, ensure your case supports such low-profile units. Exceeding height limits will prevent the side panel from closing or cause hardware interference.

5. Evaluate Material Choice

   The construction material affects heat transfer and weight. The Dynatron A38 uses aluminum, which is lightweight and cost-effective. The Dynatron W5 uses copper, which conducts heat more efficiently but is heavier. Copper is often preferred for passive cooling in servers due to its thermal properties. Aluminum is practical for active cooling where weight is a concern. Consider the trade-off between thermal performance and physical weight. Your choice should align with the cooler's intended role, whether it is a high-performance desktop unit or a specialized server component.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• mitxpc dynatron aluminum side fan CPU cooler vs dynatron 1u passive
• mitxpc dynatron a38 aluminum CPU cooler review
• best PC cases for CPU Cooler
• minorsonic aio CPU cooler alternatives