Installation
The installation is easy as long as you follow the instructions. Typically, the installation on the Intel LGA 1700 socket is more complicated than the AM5 socket because you have to keep in place the backplate while you do the screws. Another thing I noticed is the restricted feedback from the spring screws on the cooler’s base, but you should not be afraid to tighten them all the way. Moreover, you have to remove the center fan to have access to these screws. Don’t expect to find a long Philips screwdriver in the bundle, given the product’s low price. Finally, it would be ideal if the screws mentioned above were of Torx type.
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I think the low cost is because of the location of the company and of their manufacturing site. They can afford to undercut the competition (as any company based in most parts of E/SE Asia should be able to do), especially with China keeping the value of their currency artificially low to keep companies there.
It’s great to have your review since so many people blindly point to the PA120 nowadays for Intel, instead of remembering that it’s not the top Intel air cooler.
Honestly, after so many decades of heatsinks, I think the science is already out there as to optimal fin density, materials, etc. Asking for a ton of money, like Noctua always does after ripping off TR designs all those years ago, is a combination of the high cost of having a German-based company, and greed. It’s like when Linus justified the cost of his screwdriver with 2 years of research when there are better products out there are a fraction of the cost.
I think the only thing that is missing is results from overclocking and/or very hot CPUs. I suspect that the PA120 will not handle the hottest CPUs as well as they did in this test.