Top 12 Heatsinks

Computer components like the CPU, the GPU, and the RAM are responsible for keeping the overall computing experience optimal and efficient. However, with continuous non-stop usage, these parts tend to heat up a lot. When these components are not cooled efficiently, the computer becomes slow and starts to lag. Hence, these components need to be cooled using heatsinks that regulate the temperature and protect them from burnout. Heatsinks perform the cooling functions by diverting the heat away from these devices and dissipating the heat.

Passive Vs. active heat sinks

Heat sinks can be both passive and active. Passive heat sinks are standalone cooling devices that transfer the heat from the component in question directly into the surrounding air. These heat sinks are not assisted by additional cooling devices like fans or water pumps. Active heat sinks are assisted by other cooling devices like fans and water pumps. Passive heat sinks are used in low-end electronic devices that do not require cooling, whereas active heat sinks are used in powerful computers that generate a lot of heat.

Copper Vs. aluminum heat sinks

Copper is the most commonly used heat sink material because copper has excellent heat conducting properties. Since it is an efficient thermal conductor, it draws heat quickly from the devices. However, copper heat sinks are expensive and are heavier.  On the other hand, although aluminum heat sinks are not as efficient in thermal conducting as copper, they are lighter and cheaper than copper heat sinks.

Thermal Design Power (TDP) of the component

The TDP is the measure of how much power the component draws. It is an indirect indication of how much heat the part produces under load. Hence, the higher the TDP, the larger should be the system of heat sink being installed. The choice of heatsink material also depends on TDP.

Categories Simillar to Heatsinks includes Computer Case Fans

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