6 Best Alternatives to the MITXPC Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler (2026)

How alternatives compare to Dynatron

Acogedor SP3 4U Aluminum Server Cooler

The Acogedor SP3 4U Aluminum Server Cooler targets EPYC 7000 workstations in 4U chassis. It shares the SP3 socket compatibility with the Dynatron but swaps compact dimensions for a specialized server form factor. Its dimensions are 3.6 by 5 by 4.7 inches, which differs from the Dynatron’s 4 by 3 by 6 inch profile. You should choose this if you need high airflow in a rack-mounted environment. The Dynatron remains better for small desktop cases where space is tight. Both use aluminum and include fans, but the Acogedor is strictly for server or workstation builds requiring SP3 support.

Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

The Thermalright FC140 Dual Tower offers five heat pipes and dual tower design for Intel and AM4 systems. It lacks SP3 or sTRX4 socket support, so it cannot replace the Dynatron for Threadripper or EPYC builds. Its dimensions are 5.75 by 5.51 by 6.3 inches, making it larger than the Dynatron’s 4 by 3 by 6 inch footprint. You should pick this for high TDP Intel or AM4 CPUs in spacious cases. The Dynatron is the only option here for modern AMD HEDT platforms. This cooler prioritizes thermal capacity over compactness, sacrificing socket versatility for performance on consumer platforms.

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White features six heat pipes and supports AM5, LGA 1851, and LGA 1700 sockets. It does not support SP3 or sTRX4, limiting it to consumer desktops. Its dimensions are 5.31 by 4.92 by 6.18 inches, which is bulkier than the Dynatron’s compact 4 by 3 by 6 inch design. You should choose this for high-performance AM5 or LGA 1700 builds where aesthetics matter. The Dynatron is essential for Threadripper or EPYC users. This cooler offers robust dual-tower cooling for modern Intel and AMD consumer chips but cannot fit the larger server sockets the Dynatron handles.

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual-Tower Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual-Tower Cooler provides six heat pipes for AM4, LGA 1851, and LGA 1200 sockets. It lacks compatibility with SP3 or sTRX4, so it is not suitable for Threadripper or EPYC systems. Its dimensions are 5.31 by 4.92 by 6.18 inches, exceeding the Dynatron’s 4 by 3 by 6 inch compact size. You should select this for standard ATX cases requiring quiet, reliable cooling. The Dynatron remains the correct choice for HEDT platforms. This cooler focuses on performance and silence for desktop CPUs, offering a larger footprint and different socket support compared to the specialized server-focused Dynatron.

StarTech.com 50mm Socket 7/370 Aluminum Cooler

The StarTech.com 50mm Socket 7/370 Aluminum Cooler is designed for legacy Socket 7 and 370 systems. It does not support SP3, sTRX4, or modern sockets, making it incompatible with the Dynatron’s target platforms. Its dimensions are 1.61 by 1.97 by 1.97 inches, significantly smaller than the Dynatron’s 4 by 3 by 6 inch size. You should pick this only for restoring vintage PCs. The Dynatron is built for high-end EPYC and Threadripper processors. This cooler serves a niche historical market, offering minimal thermal performance compared to the Dynatron’s 280W TDP rating and modern server socket compatibility.

Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler supports LGA 1200, LGA 1150, and LGA 1151 sockets. It does not support SP3 or sTRX4, so it cannot cool Threadripper or EPYC CPUs. Its dimensions are 2.4 by 3.7 by 3.7 inches, which is taller and narrower than the Dynatron’s 4 by 3 by 6 inch profile. You should choose this for low-profile Intel builds with strict height limits. The Dynatron is necessary for AMD HEDT platforms. This cooler prioritizes low height for small Intel cases, sacrificing socket versatility and thermal capacity compared to the Dynatron’s robust server-grade design.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler

Best for: small form factor EPYC and Threadripper 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

This is the Dynatron A38, an aluminum side-fan CPU cooler built for AMD EPYC 7000 and Threadripper processors. It covers sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets and handles up to 280W TDP. The heatsink measures 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inches. It includes pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease. You need this if you run high-wattage server CPUs in a small form factor case.

Pros

• Supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets
• Rated for 280W TDP
• Includes pre-applied Shin-Etsu 7762 thermal grease
• Compact 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inch dimensions

Cons

• Single side fan limits cooling surface area
• Aluminum heatsink has lower thermal mass than copper
• No mention of fan speed control options

Good fit if

• You use an AMD EPYC 7000 or Threadripper CPU
• You need a cooler for sTRX4, TR4, or SP3 sockets
• You have a small case with limited height

Skip if

• You use an Intel processor
• You need a dual-tower design for extreme cooling
• You want a copper heatsink for better heat transfer

Verdict: The MITXPC Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler fits EPYC and Threadripper builds in small cases. It handles 280W TDP with a compact aluminum design and pre-applied thermal grease.

2 Best premium

Acogedor SP3 4U Aluminum Server Cooler

Best for: EPYC 7000 SP3 server workstations

Socket Compatibility

SP3

Fan Speed

3800 RPM

System Type

Server, Workstation

Material

Aluminum

Features

Fan

Dimensions

4.7 × 3.6 × 5 inches

View on Amazon: Acogedor SP3 4U Aluminum Server Cooler

This Acogedor cooler is built for AMD EPYC 7000 series processors using the SP3 socket. It features an aluminum heatsink and a fan that spins at 3800 RPM. The unit measures 3.6 by 5 by 4.7 inches. It is designed for 4U servers and workstations. You should use this if you need high airflow for specific server hardware rather than standard desktop cooling.

Pros

• High fan speed of 3800 RPM for strong airflow
• Compatible with SP3 socket for EPYC 7000 series
• Aluminum fin construction for efficient heat dissipation
• 4-pin PWM fan connection for speed control

Cons

• Very small physical size limits desktop compatibility
• High 3800 RPM speed may be loud in quiet spaces
• Designed only for server workstations, not consumer PCs

Good fit if

• You are building a 4U server with an EPYC 7000 CPU
• You need a replacement cooler for an SP3 socket system
• You prioritize maximum airflow over noise levels

Skip if

• You are using a standard desktop motherboard
• You need compatibility with consumer sockets like AM4 or LGA1700
• You require a quiet cooling solution for a home office

Verdict: Acogedor SP3 Aluminum Server CPU Cooler is a specialized component for EPYC 7000 servers. It fits only users who need SP3 socket compatibility and high airflow in a 4U chassis.

3 Best 5 heat pipes

Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

Best for: High TDP Intel and AM4 systems

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1150, LGA1200, LGA1700

Cooler Height

160 mm

Heat Pipes

5

Tower Design

Dual-Tower

Fan Size

120 mm, 140 mm

TDP Rating

275 W

View on Amazon: Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

The Thermalright FC140 is a dual-tower CPU air cooler featuring five 8mm heat pipes with AGHP technology. It includes a 140mm fan and a 120mm fan, delivering up to 95.5 CFM of airflow. The unit supports AM4, AM5, and LGA1700 sockets. It fits cases over 210mm wide and clears RAM up to 62mm tall. This cooler suits users needing high TDP handling.

Pros

• Dual-tower design with 5 heat pipes
• TDP rating of 275W
• Includes 140mm and 120mm PWM fans
• AGHP technology for heat pipe efficiency

Cons

• Limited to AM4 and Intel sockets, no AMD TR4/SP3 support
• Requires case width greater than 210mm
• RAM clearance limited to 62mm height

Good fit if

• You need a cooler for high TDP processors
• You have a mid-tower or full-tower case
• You use AM4 or LGA1700 sockets

Skip if

• You require TR4 or SP3 socket support
• Your case width is under 210mm
• Your RAM height exceeds 62mm

Verdict: The Thermalright FC140 Dual Tower Air Cooler offers robust cooling for Intel and AM4 systems. It is best for builders with spacious cases who need to manage high thermal loads.

4 Best budget

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White

Best for: High-performance AM5 and LGA 1700 builds

Cooler Height

157 mm

Heat Pipes

6

Tower Design

Dual-Tower

Fan Size

120 mm

Fan Speed

1500 RPM

Lighting

ARGB

View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White

This dual-tower air cooler uses six 6mm pure copper heat pipes and a sintered base to move heat efficiently. It includes two 120mm PWM fans that push up to 66.17 CFM of airflow while staying under 25.6 dB. The offset design clears memory modules, and the white aluminum finish fits modern builds. It supports AM5, AM4, and Intel LGA 1700 sockets.

Pros

• Six 6mm pure copper heat pipes with AGHP technology
• Dual 120mm PWM fans providing up to 66.17 CFM airflow
• Offset asymmetric tower design for memory clearance
• ARGB lighting on the TL-C12W fans

Cons

• 157 mm height may not fit in smaller cases
• 1.02 kg weight requires sturdy motherboard support
• White finish may clash with black-themed builds

Good fit if

• You need strong cooling for AM5 or LGA 1700 CPUs
• You have a mid-tower case with at least 160 mm clearance
• You want ARGB lighting that matches a white theme

Skip if

• Your case supports only single-tower coolers under 150 mm
• You prefer a silent black cooler without RGB effects
• You are building in a compact mini-ITX chassis

Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White delivers robust dual-tower cooling for high-end AM5 and LGA 1700 processors. It suits builders who prioritize thermal performance and white aesthetics over compact size.

5 Also great

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual-Tower Cooler

Best for: Standard ATX cases and high-performance CPUs

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851

Cooler Height

157mm

Heat Pipes

6

Tower Design

Dual-Tower

Fan Size

120mm

Fan Speed

1500 RPM ± 10%

View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual-Tower Cooler

This dual-tower air cooler uses six pure copper heat pipes and a pure copper base for efficient heat transfer. It includes two 120mm PWM fans that move up to 66.17 CFM of air while staying under 25.6 dB. The offset design fits most graphics cards. It supports major Intel and AMD sockets, making it a practical option for standard desktop builds.

Pros

• Dual-tower aluminum heatsink with six 6mm heat pipes
• Includes two 120mm PWM fans for strong airflow
• Pure copper base and sintered heat pipe technology
• Offset design clears most first-slot graphics cards
• Supports AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700/1851 sockets

Cons

• 157mm height may not fit smaller cases
• Fans are not included in all color variations
• No RGB lighting on the standard black model

Good fit if

• You need strong cooling for high-end CPUs
• You have a standard ATX or mid-tower case
• You want quiet operation under 26 dB

Skip if

• You are building in a small form factor case
• You need RGB lighting on the cooler itself
• You require support for older TR4 or SP3 sockets

Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual Tower offers reliable cooling for standard desktops. It fits users who prioritize performance and quiet operation over compact size or aesthetic lighting.

6 Also great

StarTech.com 50mm Socket 7/370 Aluminum Cooler

Best for: Restoring legacy Socket 7 and 370 systems

Socket Compatibility

Socket 370, Socket 7

Fan Size

50 mm

Color

Black

Material

Aluminum

Features

Fan

Dimensions

1.97 × 1.61 × 1.97 inches

View on Amazon: StarTech.com 50mm Socket 7/370 Aluminum Cooler

This StarTech.com unit is a small aluminum heatsink with an integrated fan. It measures 50mm by 50mm by 41mm and weighs 8 ounces. The cooler supports Socket 7 and Socket 370 processors. Its compact 1.61 by 1.97 inch footprint makes it suitable for tight spaces. You should use this for legacy systems requiring specific socket compatibility.

Pros

• Supports Socket 7 and Socket 370
• Aluminum heatsink construction
• Compact 50mm fan size
• Integrated fan included

Cons

• Very small 50mm fan limits airflow
• Limited to older Socket 7 and 370 CPUs
• Small heatsink surface area reduces cooling capacity

Good fit if

• You need a replacement for a Socket 7 system
• You are repairing a legacy Socket 370 machine
• You require a very small 50mm form factor

Skip if

• You have a modern AMD or Intel CPU
• You need high cooling performance for gaming
• You require compatibility with current socket types

Verdict: StarTech 50mm Socket 7 CPU Cooler is a niche component for vintage hardware. It fits users restoring old Socket 7 or 370 PCs who need a direct replacement.

7 Also great

Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler

Best for: Low-profile Intel builds with height limits

Socket Compatibility

LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151

Tower Design

Low-profile

Fan Size

92mm

Material

Aluminum

Features

Fan

Dimensions

3.7 × 2.4 × 3.7 inches

View on Amazon: Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler

This low-profile air cooler uses an aluminum extrusion heatsink and a 92mm fan. It supports Intel sockets LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151. The 4-pin PWM fan allows for speed control. The unit measures 3.7 by 3.7 by 2.4 inches. It fits cases with limited height. You get simple installation for Intel builds.

Pros

• Aluminum extrusion heatsink design
• 92mm 7-bladed PWM fan
• Supports LGA 1200 and older Intel sockets
• Compact 3.7 inch height

Cons

• Only supports Intel sockets
• Smaller 92mm fan may be louder than 120mm options
• Limited to low-profile use cases

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 4 inches tall
• You have an Intel LGA 1200 or 1151 socket
• You want a simple aluminum heatsink

Skip if

• You use an AMD socket
• You need high-end gaming performance
• You prefer larger 120mm or 140mm fans

Verdict: Thermaltake 92mm Low-Profile Aluminum CPU Cooler fits small Intel cases where height is restricted. It works for basic cooling needs on LGA 1200 or 1151 motherboards.

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Frequently asked questions