MITXPC Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler vs MITXPC Dynatron 1U Passive Copper: Spec Comparison
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The mitxpc dynatron aluminum side fan CPU cooler vs dynatron 1u passive comparison highlights two distinct cooling approaches. Both units use high-quality Shin-Etsu thermal compound and target high heat dissipation for specific server-grade processors. The main difference lies in their design and target hardware. One is an active aluminum tower for AMD Threadripper and EPYC sockets. The other is a passive copper solution for 1U servers using Ampere Altra processors. You need to match the cooler to your specific socket and airflow requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler | Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | sTRX4, TR4, SP3 | LGA4926 |
| Cooling Type | Active (with fan) | Passive |
| Heatsink Material | Aluminum | Copper with vapor chamber |
| Max TDP Rating | 280W | 250W |
| System Type | Desktop/Workstation | 1U Server |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler if
- You need a cooler for AMD Threadripper or EPYC processors.
- Your system requires active airflow to manage up to 280W of heat.
- You are building a workstation rather than a 1U server chassis.
Choose Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler if
- You are using an ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T Ampere Altra motherboard.
- Your 1U server chassis lacks space for a side-mounted fan.
- You prefer a copper heatsink with a vapor chamber for passive cooling.
Verdict: Choose the Dynatron A38 if you are cooling AMD Threadripper or EPYC CPUs and have room for a fan. Select the Dynatron W5 only if you are running Ampere Altra processors in a 1U server without internal airflow. These products serve completely different hardware ecosystems.
Spec Comparison: Dynatron A38 vs W5
socket compatibility
The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets. This covers AMD Threadripper and EPYC processors. The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler supports the LGA4926 socket for ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T Ampere Altra systems. You must match the cooler to your specific processor socket. These two products target entirely different hardware platforms. One is for AMD server chips. The other is for ARM-based server chips. You cannot use either cooler on the other platform. Your choice depends entirely on which socket your motherboard uses.
heat dissipation
The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler has a TDP rating of 280W. The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler supports up to 250 watts of heat dissipation. The aluminum side-fan model handles slightly higher thermal loads. This difference is small but notable for high-end builds. Both units are rated for serious server workloads. You should ensure your cooling solution meets or exceeds your processor's thermal design power. The A38 offers a modest advantage in maximum supported heat output. The W5 is sufficient for its specific 250W target.
system type
The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler is a tower-style cooler with a side-mounted fan. It requires case space for its 4.69 x 3.11 x 2.56 inch dimensions. The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler is designed for 1U server chassis. It has a low profile height of 1.09 inches. You need a server rack or specific 1U case for the W5. The A38 fits in standard ATX or micro-ATX cases with adequate clearance. Your case form factor dictates which cooler you can install. One is for tower cases. The other is for blade servers.
material and build
The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler uses an aluminum heatsink with heat pipes. The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler uses copper fins and a vapor chamber. Copper generally offers better thermal conductivity than aluminum. The vapor chamber in the W5 spreads heat efficiently across the base. The A38 relies on traditional heat pipes within an aluminum block. Both use high-quality Shin-Etsu thermal grease. The W5 material choice suits its passive, high-density design. The A38 material is standard for its active tower design.
fan configuration
The Dynatron A38 Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler includes a side-mounted fan. Active cooling helps move air through the aluminum fins. The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler is a passive air CPU cooler. It has no built-in fan. It relies on case airflow or server chassis fans. You must ensure your system provides adequate airflow for the passive unit. The A38 brings its own cooling mechanism. The W5 depends on your existing system fans. This affects noise levels and airflow requirements significantly.
Which CPU cooler fits your server
Threadripper or EPYC user needing active cooling
You need to cool AMD Threadripper or EPYC processors. This aluminum cooler supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets. It handles up to 280W TDP with a side fan. The Shin-Etsu 7762 grease is pre-applied. Its dimensions fit standard cases. You get active airflow for high heat loads on these specific AMD platforms.
ASRock Rack Ampere Altra 1U server builder
You are building a 1U server with an ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T board. This copper cooler supports the LGA4926 socket. It uses a vapor chamber for efficient heat transfer. It handles up to 250W of heat dissipation. The passive design fits low-profile 1U chassis constraints. The Shin-Etsu X23-8079-2 compound is pre-printed for easy installation.
User prioritizing copper vapor chamber for 1U
You require a passive solution for a 1U server chassis. This unit features copper fins and a vapor chamber for rapid heat spread. It is designed for the LGA4926 socket. It supports up to 250W TDP without moving parts. The compact height fits tight spaces. The pre-printed thermal compound ensures consistent contact with the processor.
The products compared
Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler
Best for: Compact Threadripper and EPYC workstations
- 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 Dynatron A38 is an aluminum side-fan cooler designed for Threadripper and EPYC processors. It supports sockets sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 with a 280W TDP rating. The unit measures 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inches and includes pre-applied Shin-Egetsu 7762 thermal grease. You should choose this if you need a compact active cooling solution for high-power workstation CPUs in a small form factor build.
Pros
- Supports sTRX4, TR4, and SP3 sockets
- Handles up to 280W TDP
- Compact 4.69 by 3.11 by 2.56 inch dimensions
- Includes pre-applied Shin-Egetsu 7762 thermal grease
Cons
- Aluminum heatsink material conducts heat less efficiently than copper
- Side-fan design limits compatibility with tall RAM modules
- Single fan configuration may be noisier at high loads
Good fit if
- You use a Threadripper or EPYC processor
- You need a cooler under 3 inches in height
- You require support for multiple workstation sockets
Skip if
- You prioritize maximum thermal performance over size
- You have tall RAM sticks that block side fans
- You need a passive cooling solution
Verdict: The MITXPC Dynatron A38 Aluminum CPU Cooler fits users who need a compact, high-TDP active cooler for Threadripper or EPYC builds. It works well for small form factor workstations where space is tight but power output is high.
Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler
Best for: 1U Ampere Altra server builds
- 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 1U server cooler built for the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T with an Ampere Altra LGA4926 socket. It uses a copper vapor chamber to handle up to 250W of heat dissipation. The unit measures 4.72 by 3.23 by 1.09 inches and weighs 1.14 pounds. Shin-Etsu X23-8079-2 thermal compound is pre-applied. It suits users who need high-density cooling in a low-profile chassis without fans.
Pros
- Copper vapor chamber design for efficient heat transfer
- Supports 250W TDP for high-performance server CPUs
- Pre-applied Shin-Etsu X23-8079-2 thermal compound
- Low 1.09-inch height fits compact server racks
Cons
- Passive design requires strong case airflow
- Limited to LGA4926 socket compatibility
- No fan included for active cooling
Good fit if
- You are building a 1U server with the ALTRAD8UD-1L2T motherboard
- You need a passive cooler for an Ampere Altra processor
- You have a case with high static pressure fans
Skip if
- You use a desktop socket like LGA1700 or AM5
- You need a cooler that works without case fans
- You are building a standard ATX desktop PC
Verdict: The MITXPC Dynatron W5 1U Copper Vapor Chamber Cooler is a specialized passive solution for 1U servers using the LGA4926 socket. It fits users who need reliable heat dissipation for Ampere Altra chips in a low-profile environment.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler | Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | sTRX4, TR4, SP3 | LGA4926 |
| TDP Rating | 280W | 250W |
| System Type | not stated | Server |
| Server Height | not stated | 1U |
| Material | Aluminum | Copper |
| Features | Fan | Vapor Chamber |
| Dimensions | 6 × 4 × 3 inches | 3.23 × 4.72 × 1.09 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 1.14 pounds |
| Model | A38 | W5 |
| Color | not stated | Copper |
Frequently asked questions
Which cooler works with AMD Threadripper?
The MITXPC Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler supports SP3 sockets, which includes Threadripper and EPYC processors. It is designed for active cooling in compact workstations. The passive copper unit only supports LGA4926, making it incompatible with AMD socket types. Choose the aluminum model for your Threadripper build.
Does the Dynatron 1U cooler have a fan?
No, the Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler is a passive solution. It relies on chassis airflow rather than an integrated fan. The aluminum side-fan model includes a fan for active cooling. You must ensure your server case provides sufficient airflow for the passive unit to function correctly.
What is the height of the Dynatron W5?
The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler measures 1.09 inches in height. This low profile fits into 1U server chassis. The aluminum side-fan cooler is taller at 3 inches. Check your case clearance carefully if you are building a small form factor workstation.
Which material is used in the passive cooler?
The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler uses copper as its primary material. It also features a vapor chamber for efficient heat transfer. The side-fan alternative uses aluminum. Copper offers higher thermal conductivity, which is beneficial for passive dissipation in server environments.
Can I use the passive cooler for EPYC?
No, the Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler supports only the LGA4926 socket. It is intended for Ampere Altra processors. For EPYC processors, you need the Dynatron Aluminum Side-Fan CPU Cooler, which supports the SP3 socket. Using the wrong socket type will prevent installation.
How heavy is the Dynatron W5?
The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler weighs 1.14 pounds. This weight helps stabilize the unit in a server rack. The aluminum side-fan model does not list a weight in the provided data. Consider the weight when planning your server chassis mounting options.
Which cooler is better for a 1U server?
The Dynatron 1U Passive Copper Server Cooler is designed specifically for 1U server builds. Its low height and copper construction suit high-density environments. The aluminum side-fan model is taller and better for compact workstations. Match the cooler to your chassis form factor for the best fit.