Do I need a heatsink and fan?

[Chowder Head]

I'm looking at doing a basic computer build for my first time. The proccessor I'm going with is a AMD X2 3800, but I don't know if it includes a heat sink and fan, or not. Probably a stupid question but I'm new at this.

If it comes with one, at what point would I need to get a better one? If I overclock a lot of stuff or something?

Thanks all, sorry for the dumb questions, lol.

 

[_Korruption_]

You need one. If you get the Retail package of the X2 3800, you'll get a basic heatsink-fan combination.

You might want one for lower noise, lower temperatures, aesthetics, the list goes on.

 

[sumofatguy]

if your gonna oc, maybe try a 3rd party heatsink like the xp-120/90 or something. i have a zalman 7000b alcu and it works fine for ocing a bit

 

[Chowder Head]

You need one. If you get the Retail package of the X2 3800, you'll get a basic heatsink-fan combination.

You might want one for lower noise, lower temperatures, aesthetics, the list goes on.

Oh okay, so it does indeed come with one?
I believe I'm looking at the retail package. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16819103562

Probably is the retail but it wouldn't hurt to be absoulty sure.

Would someone know at which point would I be better off going with a better, aftermarket one? I would like to overclock some parts once I really understand what I'm doing and was wondering if the one that comes with the processor can handle the cooling job or not.

If I would be better off with an aftermarket version, I'll do some research on here. I've been on forums long enough to know that rule, lol.

Thanks guys!

 

[tsuehpsyde]

Oh okay, so it does indeed come with one?
I believe I'm looking at the retail package. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16819103562

Probably is the retail but it wouldn't hurt to be absoulty sure.

Would someone know at which point would I be better off going with a better, aftermarket one? I would like to overclock some parts once I really understand what I'm doing and was wondering if the one that comes with the processor can handle the cooling job or not.

If I would be better off with an aftermarket version, I'll do some research on here. I've been on forums long enough to know that rule, lol.

Thanks guys!

Yes, that does include a heatsink. It's not great, but it'll do until you get more curious with your hardware. When that becomes the case is entirely up to you.

Full Folding Ahead!

 

[Decker87]

One last suggestion: Try some mild overclocking with the stock HSF (Heatsink+Fan) first. That way, when and if you upgrade, the difference will be more easily seen.