Anandtech compares three low-profile HSF
If you’re not planning to use your HTPC as a gaming rig, opting for a full-height chassis is a waste :). Finding the right low-profile HSF to cool the CPU can be a major challenge though… If you’re in that boat, Anandtech has a look at three different height coolers that might make the selection process easier.
Whether the focus of the user is quieter operation or higher thermal performance, there is another factor that can make the purchase of a good cooler complicated: size. Sometimes you cannot just buy the best cooler for the job for the simple reason that it will not fit into the system. This is particularly true for compact and/or narrow cases, especially those meant for ITX systems and horizontal placement. With the majority of typical CPU coolers being tower-type constructs, it is difficult to find one that fits inside compact case designs.