Dynatron vs Supermicro: CPU Coolers Compared by Specs
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This dynatron vs supermicro CPU cooler comparison looks at two server-grade options for 2U chassis. Both units target 2U server and workstation environments. They differ in socket support and cooling design. The Dynatron model supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets with an active cooling method. The Supermicro unit fits LGA 1155 and LGA 1156 sockets and uses a passive approach with a fan. You need to match the socket and cooling style to your motherboard.
Key differences
| Aspect | Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler | Supermicro 2U Server CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 115X, LGA 1200 | LGA 1155, LGA 1156 |
| Cooling Method | Active | Passive |
| Fan Speed | not listed | 2800 RPM |
| Noise Level | not listed | 33.5 dBA |
| Mounting Method | not listed | Push-in Pin |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler if
- You use an LGA 1200 or LGA 115X motherboard.
- You prefer an active cooling design with heat pipes.
- You need a cooler for a newer Intel server platform.
Choose Supermicro 2U Server CPU Cooler if
- You use an LGA 1155 or LGA 1156 motherboard.
- You want a cooler with a specified fan speed of 2800 RPM.
- You need a unit with a known noise rating of 33.5 dBA.
Verdict: Choose the Dynatron if your motherboard uses LGA 115X or LGA 1200 sockets. Pick the Supermicro model if you are working with LGA 1155 or LGA 1156 platforms. The decision rests entirely on socket compatibility and whether you need active or passive cooling specifications.
Specs: Dynatron vs Supermicro
socket compatibility
The Dynatron K555 supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets. This broad range covers many modern Intel platforms. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 supports LGA 1156 and LGA 1155 sockets. These are older architectures. You must check your motherboard socket before buying. The Dynatron offers wider modern support. The Supermicro is limited to legacy sockets. Choose Dynatron for newer LGA 1200 boards. Choose Supermicro only for older LGA 1155 systems. Socket support is the first filter for compatibility.
cooling method
The Dynatron K555 is an active cooler. It uses a fan to move air through the fins. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 is listed as a passive cooler in its attributes. However, its features mention a fan speed of 2800 RPM. This suggests it includes a fan despite the passive label. You should verify the exact configuration. Active cooling generally handles higher thermal loads better. Passive designs rely on case airflow. The Dynatron is clearly active. The Supermicro classification is confusing based on the data provided.
bearing type
The Dynatron K555 uses two ball bearings. Ball bearings are durable and handle vibration well. They are common in server environments. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 does not list its bearing type in the provided data. You cannot compare bearing quality directly. Ball bearings often last longer than sleeve bearings. If the Supermicro uses a sleeve bearing, it may wear out faster. The Dynatron gives you a clear spec advantage here. You know what to expect for longevity.
dimensions
The Dynatron K555 measures 94.0 x 87.5 x 67.7mm. This is a larger block. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 is described as 3.6 inches square. This equals roughly 91.4mm. The height is not explicitly listed for Supermicro, but it is a 2U cooler. The Dynatron height is 67.7mm. The Supermicro is likely taller or similar. Both fit in 2U chassis. The Dynatron has slightly more precise metric dimensions listed. The Supermicro dimensions are in inches. Both are compact for server use.
fan noise
The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 lists a noise level of 33.5 dBA at 2800 RPM. This is a specific acoustic measurement. The Dynatron K555 does not list noise levels in the provided data. You cannot compare decibel ratings directly. The Supermicro gives you a clear spec for acoustic performance. 33.5 dBA is moderate for a server fan. The Dynatron might be louder or quieter. You lack the data to judge. If noise is critical, the Supermicro spec is more transparent.
material composition
The Dynatron K555 features a copper base and aluminum fins. It also uses embedded aluminum heat pipes. This combination conducts heat well and dissipates it efficiently. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 does not list its material composition in the data. You do not know if it uses copper or aluminum. Copper bases are superior for heat transfer. The Dynatron gives you clear material specs. You can trust the copper base for thermal performance. The Supermicro materials are unknown.
Which CPU Cooler Suits Your Server Needs
Modern LGA 1200 system builders
You need a cooler for newer Intel platforms. The Dynatron K555 supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets. This active unit uses a copper base and aluminum fins with embedded heat pipes. It fits standard 2U server chassis. The ball bearing design offers reliable operation for continuous server workloads without requiring frequent maintenance.
Older LGA 1155 or 1156 users
Your motherboard uses LGA 1156 or LGA 1155 sockets. The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 is built for these older architectures. It supports Xeon 3400 and Core i3/i5/i7 processors. The push-pin mounting method simplifies installation in tight server environments. This passive design relies on case airflow for thermal management.
Low noise preference in 2U chassis
You prioritize acoustic performance in a 2U server rack. The Supermicro unit operates at 33.5 dBA. This noise level is manageable for many data center or workstation setups. The passive cooling method reduces fan noise compared to active models. Check your case airflow to ensure adequate heat dissipation for your specific CPU load.
The products compared
Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler
Best for: 2U server builds with LGA 115X/1200
- 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 CPU cooler designed for 2U server chassis. It features a copper base with aluminum fins and embedded heat pipes. The unit measures 94.0 x 87.5 x 67.7mm and uses a dual ball bearing fan. It supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200 sockets. This cooler suits users needing reliable airflow in tight server environments.
Pros
- Dual ball bearing fan for durability
- Copper base with aluminum fins
- Supports LGA 115X and LGA 1200
- Compact 2U form factor
Cons
- Limited to 2U chassis height
- Only supports specific LGA sockets
- No PWM speed control mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a 2U server cooler
- You use LGA 115X or LGA 1200
- You prefer durable ball bearings
Skip if
- You have a standard desktop case
- You use LGA 1700 sockets
- You need silent operation
Verdict: The Dynatron K555 2U Active Cooler is a solid choice for 2U server builds using LGA 115X or LGA 1200 sockets. It offers reliable cooling in a compact package.
Supermicro 2U Server CPU Cooler
Best for: 2U servers with LGA1155/LGA1156 CPUs
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1156, LGA1155
- Fan Speed
- 2800 RPM
- Server Height
- 2U
- Cooling Method
- Passive
- Dimensions
- 3.6 × 3.6 × 3.6 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: Supermicro 2U Server CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This Supermicro unit is a 2U passive cooler designed for 2U UP servers and workstations. It supports LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets, including Xeon 3400 and Core i3/i5/i7 processors. The heatsink relies on a fan running at 2800 RPM. It weighs 1 pound and uses a push-in pin mounting method. You should use it in server environments where space is tight and noise is a concern.
Pros
- Passive cooling design for 2U chassis
- Supports LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets
- Fan speed of 2800 RPM
- Low noise output of 33.5 dBA
- Lightweight build at 1 pound
Cons
- Limited socket compatibility to LGA1155 and LGA1156
- Requires active fan for cooling despite passive heatsink
- Specific to 2U server form factor
Good fit if
- You need a cooler for a 2U server chassis
- You use LGA1155 or LGA1156 processors
- You prioritize low noise in a server environment
Skip if
- You need support for modern sockets like LGA1700
- You are building a standard desktop PC
- You require a cooler without a fan
Verdict: Supermicro 2U Passive CPU Cooler is a specialized solution for 2U server builds using older LGA1155 or LGA1156 CPUs. It fits users who need low noise and compact height in a server rack.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Dynatron 2U Active Server CPU Cooler | Supermicro 2U Server CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 115X, LGA 1200 | LGA1156, LGA1155 |
| Fan Speed | not stated | 2800 RPM |
| Server Height | 2U | 2U |
| Cooling Method | Active | Passive |
| Material | Copper, Aluminum | not stated |
| Dimensions | 6 × 6 × 6 inches | 3.6 × 3.6 × 3.6 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 1 pounds |
| Model | K555 | SNK-P0046A4 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dynatron cooler active or passive?
The Dynatron K555 uses an active cooling method. This means it includes a fan to move air across the heatsink fins. Active cooling generally provides higher thermal performance than passive designs. You should ensure your server chassis has adequate airflow to support the fan operation effectively.
Does the Supermicro cooler have a fan?
No, the Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 is a passive cooler. It relies entirely on case airflow or external server fans to dissipate heat. This design eliminates fan noise from the CPU cooler itself. You must verify that your server environment provides sufficient forced air movement for proper thermal management.
What is the size of the Dynatron cooler?
The Dynatron K555 measures six inches in width, six inches in height, and six inches in length. These dimensions define its physical footprint within a 2U server rack. You need to ensure your chassis has enough clearance to accommodate this cubic shape without obstructing other components.
How heavy is the Supermicro cooler?
The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 weighs one pound. This weight reflects its passive heatsink construction without an attached fan. You should check your motherboard mounting bracket strength to ensure it can support this mass securely. Proper mounting is essential to maintain good thermal contact with the CPU.
Can I use the Supermicro cooler on LGA 1200?
The Supermicro SNK-P0046A4 supports LGA 1155 and LGA 1156 sockets. It does not list compatibility with LGA 1200. You should use the Dynatron K555 if your motherboard uses an LGA 1200 socket. Using an incompatible cooler can prevent proper installation and effective heat transfer.
What materials are in the Dynatron heatsink?
The Dynatron K555 is constructed from copper and aluminum. Copper typically offers better heat conductivity for the base, while aluminum fins help dissipate heat into the airflow. This combination is common in active server coolers. You benefit from efficient heat transfer across the processor surface.