Dynatron or MITXPC? CPU Coolers Compared in 2026
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This dynatron vs MITXPC CPU cooler comparison looks at two distinct cooling solutions. Both units are active coolers designed for high-performance computing tasks. The Dynatron K555 is a 2U server cooler with a copper base. The MITXPC A38 is a side-fan aluminum heatsink. They target different socket types and TDP limits. You should choose based on your motherboard socket and chassis constraints. This guide breaks down the key specifications to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler | Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 115X, LGA 1200 | sTRX4, TR4, SP3 |
| TDP Rating | not listed | 280W |
| Base Material | Copper | Aluminum |
| Design Type | 2U Server | Side-Fan Tower |
| Thermal Grease | not listed | Pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler if
- You need a cooler for LGA 115X or LGA 1200 sockets.
- Your case supports 2U server-style height constraints.
- You prefer a copper base for heat transfer.
Choose Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler if
- You have an AMD Threadripper or EPYC processor.
- You need to cool a processor with up to 280W TDP.
- You want pre-applied thermal paste for easier installation.
Verdict: The Dynatron K555 is the practical choice for Intel LGA platforms in server-like cases. The MITXPC A38 is the only option for AMD Threadripper and EPYC sockets. Your socket type dictates the correct hardware.
Dynatron vs MITXPC Spec Analysis
Socket Compatibility
The Dynatron K555 supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets. This makes it suitable for standard Intel desktop processors. The MITXPC A38 targets AMD Threadripper and EPYC platforms with sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 support. These are high-end workstation and server sockets. You cannot use the MITXPC cooler on a standard Intel motherboard. You cannot use the Dynatron on a Threadripper system. The sockets are completely different. Each cooler serves a distinct hardware ecosystem. Your choice depends entirely on your motherboard socket type.
TDP Rating
The MITXPC A38 lists a TDP rating of 280W. This indicates it can handle high heat output from powerful CPUs. The Dynatron K555 data does not list a specific TDP rating. It is a 2U server cooler, which often handles significant heat, but the exact limit is unknown from the specs. Without a number, you cannot compare their thermal limits directly. The MITXPC provides a clear thermal ceiling. The Dynatron relies on its server-grade design for cooling capacity. You need to check other sources for the Dynatron's thermal limit.
Heatsink Material
The Dynatron K555 uses a copper base with aluminum fins and heat pipes. Copper conducts heat better than aluminum. This base helps move heat away from the CPU quickly. The MITXPC A38 is made of aluminum. It uses heat pipes as well. Aluminum is lighter and cheaper but less efficient at heat transfer than copper. The Dynatron has a material advantage for thermal conductivity. The MITXPC is all aluminum. This might affect cooling performance under heavy loads. Copper bases are generally preferred for high-performance cooling.
System Type
The Dynatron K555 is designed for 2U server chassis. It is an active cooler built for rack-mounted systems. It fits in specific server enclosures. The MITXPC A38 is a side-fan cooler. It is designed for desktop workstations or towers. It fits standard PC cases. You cannot put the Dynatron in a regular desktop case. You cannot put the MITXPC in a 2U server chassis. The form factors are incompatible. Your case type determines which cooler you can install. They serve different physical environments.
Dimensions
The Dynatron K555 measures 94.0 x 87.5 x 67.7mm. It is compact for a server cooler. The MITXPC A38 measures 4.69 x 3.11 x 2.56 inches. This is roughly 119 x 79 x 65mm. The MITXPC is wider. The Dynatron is narrower. Both are relatively small. The Dynatron fits in tight server spaces. The MITXPC fits in standard towers. The dimensions affect clearance. You must check your case or chassis for fit. The sizes are comparable but shaped differently. Width and height vary between the two designs.
Which Dynatron or MITXPC Cooler Fits You
Standard Intel desktop builder
Choose the Dynatron K555 if you use an Intel LGA 115X or LGA 1200 processor. This 2U server cooler features a copper base and aluminum fins. Its ball bearing design ensures long-term reliability. The dimensions fit standard server cases, providing stable cooling for your specific socket type.
AMD Threadripper or EPYC user
Select the MITXPC A38 for AMD sTRX4, TR4, or SP3 sockets. It supports up to 280W TDP, handling high-power workstation chips. The aluminum heatsink includes a side fan for direct airflow. Pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease simplifies installation while maintaining efficient heat transfer from the processor to the fins.
High-TDP workstation builder
The MITXPC A38 handles 280W TDP loads effectively. Its side-fan design directs air across the aluminum fins and heatpipes. This configuration suits dense workstation builds where standard tower coolers may not fit. The included thermal grease is ready for immediate use, ensuring optimal contact between the cooler and your CPU.
The products compared
Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler
Best for: LGA 115X/1200 2U server builds
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 115X, LGA 1200
- Server Height
- 2U
- Cooling Method
- Active
- Material
- Copper, Aluminum
- Dimensions
- 6 × 6 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The Dynatron K555 is an active 2U server-grade cooler designed for LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets. It features a copper base with aluminum fins and embedded heat pipes for efficient heat transfer. The unit measures 94.0 x 87.5 x 67.7mm and uses a dual ball bearing fan. This compact, dense heatsink suits users needing reliable cooling in tight or server-style builds.
Pros
- Copper base with aluminum fins and embedded heat pipes
- Dual ball bearing fan for durability
- Compact 94.0 x 87.5 x 67.7mm dimensions
- Compatible with LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets
Cons
- Limited to LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets
- 2U server form factor may not fit standard cases
- No mention of fan speed control or noise levels
Good fit if
- You need a compact, dense heatsink for LGA 115X or LGA 1200
- You are building a server or 2U-compatible chassis
- You prioritize copper base heat transfer over aesthetic RGB
Skip if
- You use AM4, AM5, or Intel LGA 1700 sockets
- You require a low-profile cooler for standard ATX cases
- You need adjustable fan curves or silent operation specs
Verdict: Dynatron K555 2U Active Cooler is a specialized heatsink for LGA 115X and LGA 1200 users in 2U chassis. It offers solid copper-aluminum construction but lacks socket flexibility and noise data for general desktop use.
Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler
Best for: Compact Threadripper and EPYC builds
- Socket Compatibility
- sTRX4, TR4, SP3
- TDP Rating
- 280W
- Material
- Aluminum
- Features
- Fan
- Dimensions
- 6 × 4 × 3 inches
View on Amazon: Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The MITXPC A38 is an aluminum CPU cooler designed for Threadripper and EPYC processors. It supports sockets sTRX4, TR4, and SP3. The heatsink handles up to 280W TDP. It includes a side fan and pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease. The unit measures 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inches. It suits users needing a compact solution for high-end desktop platforms.
Pros
- Supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets
- Rated for up to 280W TDP
- Includes pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease
- Compact dimensions of 4.69 x 3.11 x 2.56 inches
Cons
- Aluminum heatsink material offers lower thermal conductivity than copper
- Side-mounted fan design may restrict airflow in tight cases
- Limited socket support excludes mainstream AM4 and LGA1700 platforms
Good fit if
- You use a Threadripper or EPYC processor
- You need a cooler under 3 inches in height
- You want pre-applied thermal grease for easy installation
Skip if
- You use an AM4 or LGA1700 motherboard
- You require a copper base for maximum cooling performance
- You need a top-down fan orientation
Verdict: MITXPC A38 Aluminum CPU Cooler fits Threadripper builders who need a low-profile cooler for sTRX4, TR4, or SP3 sockets. It works well for systems under 280W TDP where case clearance is tight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler | Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 115X, LGA 1200 | sTRX4, TR4, SP3 |
| TDP Rating | not stated | 280W |
| Server Height | 2U | not stated |
| Cooling Method | Active | not stated |
| Material | Copper, Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Features | not stated | Fan |
| Dimensions | 6 × 6 × 6 inches | 6 × 4 × 3 inches |
| Model | K555 | A38 |
Frequently asked questions
Which cooler is better for Intel LGA 1200?
The Dynatron K555 is the better choice for Intel LGA 1200 processors. It is explicitly designed for this socket and fits into 2U server chassis. The MITXPC A38 does not support Intel sockets, making it incompatible with your system.
Does the MITXPC A38 work with AMD Threadripper?
Yes, the MITXPC A38 supports AMD Threadripper platforms. It is compatible with sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets. This makes it a suitable option for high-end workstation builds requiring low-profile cooling for these specific AMD processors.
What is the size of the Dynatron K555?
The Dynatron K555 measures 6 inches in width, 6 inches in height, and 6 inches in length. These dimensions define its footprint and clearance requirements. You must ensure your 2U chassis can accommodate these specific physical constraints.
Is the MITXPC A38 made of copper or aluminum?
The MITXPC A38 is constructed from aluminum. Unlike the Dynatron K555 which uses copper and aluminum, this unit relies solely on aluminum for its heatsink structure. This material choice affects its weight and thermal conductivity compared to copper alternatives.
Can I use the Dynatron K555 in a standard desktop case?
The Dynatron K555 is designed for 2U server builds. It may not fit in standard desktop cases due to its specific form factor and socket limitations. It lacks the socket flexibility needed for general desktop use outside of LGA 115X and LGA 1200.
What is the best use case for the MITXPC A38?
The MITXPC A38 is best for compact Threadripper and EPYC builds. It is ideal for systems under 280W TDP where case clearance is tight. Its side-fan design allows for low-profile installation in space-constrained high-performance workstations.