Noisy Desktop computers? A big no, as they are very annoying for users intent to watch movies, have online meetings, play games, edit content or simply browse the web. A lot of things are responsible for generating unwanted noise, and not every computer can be made silent like others depending on the use case. Moving parts of PC such as fans causes noise as they are aiming to cool down the temperature. Including CPU coolers, and power supply fans. In addition to this, vibration is also a primary reason for causing noise
If you are experiencing the same problem, and want to build a quiet desktop computer, this is a must to read detailed guide to building a peaceful computer. Stay tuned.
Optimal Component Selection for Noise Cancellation in Your Desktop Computer
To build a quiet PC, selecting the right components is key to success. Here is a complete list of parts that are responsible for creating noise, and how to choose the appropriate parts that don’t sound annoying.
Cases – Get the Right Chassis to Make a Big Difference
There are an array of cases in the market that are specifically design silent PCs. These casing usually come with padded side panels and solid front and top panels which are very helpful in damping the noise inside the box. Additionally, such cases also have rubber feet for elevation and rubber pads under moving components, ensuring more stability and reducing the risk of vibration. There are heaps of bands like Corsair, FSP and more, providing multiple options to provide such features at very affordable prices.
Fans – Cool the Whole PC the Right Way
Case fans are another significant component that adds noise to PCs. Thus, its must to choose a fan that doesn’t make noise. The Noctua Cooling company is one of the world’s most favourite brands, as they offer products that can easily run in a semi-passive mode, stopping at 0% Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). However, the fans come in three types of connectors. PWM controls them and its also capable of rotating fans at much lower speeds. Users need to avoid connecting fans with a Molex connector, as they are three-pin headers, which you can control through adjusting the power supply, which is not so effective. Go for PWM-controlled fans that will complement the silent case too.
CPU Cooler – An Essential Way to Reduce Noise
The main source from where the noise comes for most computers is the CPU cooler. If your PC is making noise on the stock cooler, consider getting it upgraded with a more efficient one. AiO water cooling system is an option to keep the noise level down, but it often leads to additional sound coming from the pump, as well as from fans pushing air through the radiator. However, in terms of cost, noise and cooling performance, an air cooler with a much larger fan is an ideal option if it fits into the case. Top-of-the-line air coolers with 140mm fans generate noise levels between 19-23dB, comparatively lesser than others.
Custom Cable – Organise Wires Innovatively
The unorganised cables in the PC case often come in front of fans which results in decreasing airflow, increasing the heat and thus making the noise. Thus, while building a silent PC users need to ensure that the cables are placed appropriately while keeping the fans exposed, to work them properly. Hence, the more airflow, the when heat is less and ultimately, noise is controlled. Use velcro loops, cable routing and zip ties, you can easily manage the wires and keep the airflow path open.
SSD vs HDD Noise – Avoid Optical Disks and Mechanical HDD
When writing or reading disks, a DVD drive can make a bit of noise and there is not something you can do to eliminate it, but one thing you can do is choose wisely. One option is to use an external USB optical drive, which is not a viable solution, but one can put it further away from the padded surface, reducing vibrations.
Mechanical hard drives too make noise as they have tens of moving parts inside them, however, you can go for slower RPM drives which create comparatively less noise. However, SSDs are perfect drives for a quiet PC as they don’t have any moving parts, and thus make no noise.
Graphics Card Fans – Go for Big or None
High-performance pre-built gaming PCs require a lot of power to run which results in the generation of increased heat levels, thus requiring more fans to cool down the machine. There is nothing gamers can do if they are running heavy graphics games, but there are many top-tier fanless GPUs in the market that have zero to little fan action when the temperature is below a certain level. Moreover much like the ODb PSU becomes unusable if the PC is running anything heavier than browsing over the web, so integrating large coolers is a better way to keep the noise low, consider dual or even triple graphics card fans as a better option.
Additional Tips for Whisper-Quiet PCs
In case you have already built the pc of your dreams, and looking for ways to lessen the noise, here are some of the essential tips you can follow:
- From the BIOS, you need to adjust fan curves. This will empower you to customise the speed of the fans and make them spin at an adjusted temperature level. However, if you want to make your computer completely silent, you can set the speed to the lowest possible option, depending on your hardware settings.
- Replace the existing fans with the ones having anti-vibration or mounting pads. In case if your fans are running at max speed, these pads will absorb the vibration or excess noise effectively.
- Don’t underestimate the power of high-quality cable management. If you mishandle wires, they will for sure block the air ventilation, hence, heating up the system quickly, which will result in more noise. Thus, ensure your vents are clear, and wires are managed properly.
Final Thoughts
Building a silent desktop PC requires a combination of best component selection, strategic layout, and proper noise management techniques. From choosing quiet fans and CPU coolers to investing in a high-quality, sound-dampened case and SSD storage, each element plays a crucial role in reducing noise.
Additionally, opting for passive cooling or fanless power supplies, using vibration-dampening mounts, and managing airflow can further minimise acoustic disturbances. That were our tips with them, you can create a powerful yet whisper-quiet PC that offers a more comfortable and distraction-free computing experience.
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