Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink vs Supermicro Fan SNK-P0051AP4 4U Active: Spec Comparison
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This supermicro 2u server heatsink vs fan snk p0051ap4 4u active comparison examines two cooling solutions from the same manufacturer. Both units are designed for Intel Xeon processors and use active cooling methods. They differ significantly in physical design and target server form factors. One is built for compact 2U+ systems, while the other suits larger 4U enclosures. You need to match the cooler to your specific socket type and chassis height to ensure proper fit and airflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink | Supermicro SNK-P0051AP4 LGA2011 Active Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Server Height | 2U+ | 4U |
| Socket Compatibility | LGA2011 or LGA1356 | LGA1150 & LGA1155 |
| Compatible CPU | Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 Series | Xeon E3-1200/v2/v3 Family |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 2 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink if
- You are installing a cooler in a 2U+ server chassis.
- Your system uses an Intel Xeon E5-2600 or E5-2400 series processor.
- Your motherboard supports LGA2011 or LGA1356 sockets.
Choose Supermicro SNK-P0051AP4 LGA2011 Active Cooler if
- You have a 4U active server enclosure.
- Your system uses an Intel Xeon E3-1200/v2/v3 family processor.
- Your motherboard requires LGA1150 or LGA1155 socket compatibility.
Verdict: Choose the SNK-P0048AP4 if you need a high-density solution for 2U+ servers with Xeon E5 processors. Select the SNK-P0051AP4 if your chassis is 4U and you are using Xeon E3 series CPUs. The correct choice depends entirely on your server height and specific CPU socket requirements.
Specs: 2U Heatsink vs 4U Active
socket compatibility
Product A supports LGA2011 and LGA1356 sockets, making it suitable for Intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 series processors. Product B lists LGA1150 and LGA1155 in its features, though its attributes also mention LGA2011. This creates a conflict in the data for Product B. If you need LGA1356 support, Product A is the clear choice. Product B appears targeted at the E3-1200 family. You must verify the exact socket for your specific CPU before purchasing either unit to avoid compatibility issues.
system type
Product A is designed for 2U+ UP, DP servers, indicating it fits in standard dual-processor server chassis. Product B is labeled as a 4U Active UP solution. The 4U form factor requires significantly more vertical space than the 2U design. You cannot install Product B in a 2U server chassis. Conversely, Product A may not utilize the full potential of a 4U slot. Your server rack height and internal clearance dictate which unit fits your hardware configuration.
weight
Product A weighs 10 pounds, which is substantial for a server heatsink. Product B weighs only 2 pounds. The lighter weight of Product B reduces the stress on the motherboard socket and mounting points. This is important for long-term stability in high-vibration environments. The heavier Product A requires robust mounting infrastructure. You should consider the structural integrity of your server board when deciding between the heavy 2U unit and the lightweight 4U active cooler.
compatible device
Product A targets Intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 series CPUs, which are typically higher power processors. Product B supports the Intel Xeon E3-1200/v2/v3 family, which generally has lower thermal design power. If you are cooling a high-performance dual-processor server, Product A is the intended solution. Product B is optimized for single-processor workstations or entry-level servers. Match the cooler to your CPU's power requirements for adequate thermal performance.
mounting method
Product A uses screws and springs for both square and narrow ILMs, including specific brackets in the box. Product B uses a back plate and springs with screws, including bracket BKT-0028L. Both use spring-loaded mechanisms, which help maintain even pressure on the CPU. However, the specific brackets differ. You must ensure the included brackets match your motherboard's ILM type. The mounting hardware for Product A seems more versatile for different ILM styles.
Which supermicro cooler fits your server?
Dual socket server with older E5 CPUs
Choose this unit if your system uses dual processors. It supports LGA1356 and LGA2011 sockets, covering the E5-2400 and E5-2600 series. The 2U+ height fits compact server chassis. It uses screws and springs for secure mounting on square and narrow ILMs. This heavy 10-pound cooler is built for dense, high-performance dual-socket environments.
Single socket server with E3 processors
Select this model for single-processor systems using Xeon E3-1200 series chips. It targets LGA1150 and LGA1155 sockets. The 4U active design includes a dedicated cooling fan for enhanced airflow. It weighs only 2 pounds, making installation easier. The copper base and aluminum fins with heat pipes provide efficient thermal transfer for lighter workloads.
Budget-conscious admin for single CPU builds
This option is lighter and simpler for single CPU setups. It weighs 2 pounds compared to the 10-pound alternative. The 4U form factor allows for better air circulation in spacious cases. It includes a front-side fan for active cooling. The included back plate and springs simplify installation for standard LGA1150 or LGA1155 motherboards.
The products compared
Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink
Best for: Xeon E5 servers in 2U+ chassis
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA2011 or LGA1356
- Server Height
- 2U+
- Compatible Device
- intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 Series
- Mounting Type
- Screws & Springs
- System Type
- Server
- Weight
- 10 pounds
View on Amazon: Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink Affiliate link
This Supermicro heatsink is built for 2U+ server chassis. It uses screws and springs for mounting on LGA2011 or LGA1356 sockets. It supports Intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 series CPUs. The unit weighs 10 pounds. It includes specific brackets for square and narrow ILMs. You should choose this if you need a dedicated cooling solution for these specific server platforms.
Pros
- Mounts securely with screws and springs
- Compatible with LGA2011 and LGA1356 sockets
- Includes brackets for square and narrow ILMs
- Designed for Intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 series
Cons
- Heavy at 10 pounds
- Limited to specific server sockets
- No fan included in this passive heatsink
Good fit if
- You are building a 2U+ server chassis
- You use Intel Xeon E5-2600 or E5-2400 CPUs
- You need mounting for square or narrow ILMs
Skip if
- You need a compact desktop cooler
- You use consumer desktop sockets like LGA1700
- You require a complete fan and heatsink combo
Verdict: Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink LGA2011 is a heavy, socket-specific solution for Xeon E5 servers. It fits 2U+ chassis needing LGA2011 or LGA1356 support.
Supermicro SNK-P0051AP4 LGA2011 Active Cooler
Best for: 4U server builds with LGA1150/1155 sockets
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1150, LGA1155
- Material
- Copper Base, Aluminum Fins, Heat Pipes
- Server Height
- 4U
- Cooling Method
- Active
- Dimensions
- 7.48 x 4.72 x 5.51 inches
- Mounting Type
- Back Plate, Springs, Screws
View on Amazon: Supermicro SNK-P0051AP4 LGA2011 Active Cooler Affiliate link
This Supermicro unit is a 4U active cooler designed for Intel Xeon E3-1200 processors on LGA1150 and LGA1155 sockets. It uses a copper base with aluminum fins and heat pipes, paired with a front-mounted fan. The assembly weighs 2 pounds and measures 7.48 inches wide. It includes a back plate and spring mounting hardware. This setup suits specific server builds requiring active cooling for these older Xeon platforms.
Pros
- Active cooling with integrated fan
- Copper base for heat transfer
- Includes mounting back plate and springs
- Compatible with LGA1150 and LGA1155 sockets
Cons
- Large 4U form factor limits case options
- Heavier at 2 pounds
- Older socket compatibility
Good fit if
- You need a 4U active cooler for LGA1150 or LGA1155
- You are building a server with Intel Xeon E3-1200 processors
- You have a chassis that accommodates large heatsinks
Skip if
- You require LGA2011 socket support
- You need a compact 2U cooler
- You are using modern LGA1700 or AM5 platforms
Verdict: Supermicro 4U Active CPU Cooler fits specific 4U server builds using LGA1150 or LGA1155 sockets. It provides active cooling for Intel Xeon E3-1200 processors but does not support the LGA2011 sockets found in other listings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink | Supermicro SNK-P0051AP4 LGA2011 Active Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA2011 or LGA1356 | LGA1150, LGA1155 |
| Material | not stated | Copper Base, Aluminum Fins, Heat Pipes |
| Server Height | 2U+ | 4U |
| Cooling Method | not stated | Active |
| Compatible Device | intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2400 Series | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 7.48 x 4.72 x 5.51 inches |
| Mounting Type | Screws & Springs | Back Plate, Springs, Screws |
| System Type | Server | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Fan |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 2 pounds |
| Model | NA | SNK-P0051AP4 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the Supermicro 2U heatsink and the SNK-P0051AP4 fan?
The primary difference is the server chassis height and socket support. The 2U heatsink targets LGA2011 and LGA1356 sockets for Xeon E5 processors. It weighs 10 pounds. The SNK-P0051AP4 is designed for 4U builds. It supports LGA1150 and LGA1155 sockets. It weighs only 2 pounds. You must match the cooler to your specific server height and CPU socket type.
Can I use the SNK-P0051AP4 in a 2U server chassis?
No, you cannot. The SNK-P0051AP4 is a 4U active cooler. It measures 4.72 inches in height. A standard 2U chassis has a maximum height of approximately 1.73 inches. This cooler will not physically fit. You need a low-profile solution like the 2U heatsink for compact server racks.
Which cooler supports the LGA1356 socket?
Only the Supermicro 2U Server Heatsink supports LGA1356. The SNK-P0051AP4 lists LGA1150 and LGA1155 compatibility. While its attributes mention LGA2011, the 2U unit explicitly covers LGA1356. This makes the 2U heatsink the correct choice for older dual-socket Xeon E5 systems using that specific socket.
How much does the SNK-P0051AP4 weigh?
The SNK-P0051AP4 weighs 2 pounds. This is significantly lighter than the 2U heatsink, which weighs 10 pounds. The lower weight reflects its smaller aluminum fin stack and integrated fan design. It is easier to handle during installation in larger 4U server frames.
Does the SNK-P0051AP4 include a fan?
Yes, the SNK-P0051AP4 includes a fan. It is classified as an active cooling solution. The product attributes explicitly list a fan as a feature. This fan provides airflow over the heatsink fins to cool Intel Xeon E3-1200 processors effectively in 4U server environments.
What are the dimensions of the SNK-P0051AP4?
The SNK-P0051AP4 measures 7.48 inches in width, 5.51 inches in length, and 4.72 inches in height. These dimensions are designed for 4U server chassis. Ensure your server has sufficient clearance for this footprint and height before installation.
Is the 2U heatsink suitable for LGA1155 processors?
No, the 2U heatsink is not suitable for LGA1155. It is designed for LGA2011 and LGA1356 sockets. The SNK-P0051AP4 supports LGA1155. You must verify your CPU socket type before purchasing. Using the wrong cooler will prevent proper mounting and cooling.