I'm in the process of building a small computer, which will probably spend most of its life as an HTPC. The problem with smaller computers is that they have poor airflow compared to their larger siblings. The primary purpose of this machine will be a media player, with some occasional gaming. I'm leaning toward a Radeon 4670 since it appears that it will allow me to play the games I play at 1920x1080, and costs under $100.
How much of a difference will the VGA cooler make in a small case? I would assume that a cooler that vents air directly out of the case would be the most ideal solution. I also assume that all 4 coolers shown below will sufficiently cool the card. But is it really worth a few extra bucks for a card with a more beefy, venting cooler? And no, I can't justify spending $40+ for an aftermarket cooler for an $80 card.
Thanks for any advice/opinions you have to offer.
How much of a difference will the VGA cooler make in a small case? I would assume that a cooler that vents air directly out of the case would be the most ideal solution. I also assume that all 4 coolers shown below will sufficiently cool the card. But is it really worth a few extra bucks for a card with a more beefy, venting cooler? And no, I can't justify spending $40+ for an aftermarket cooler for an $80 card.
Thanks for any advice/opinions you have to offer.