StarTech.com 85x70x50mm Socket 478 CPU Cooler Fan - CPU Cooler with Heatsink & TX3 Connector (FAN478), Black
Bottom line: The StarTech.com 85x70x50mm Socket 478 CPU Cooler Fan: Socket 478 and Socket 423 support keeps Pentium 4 era builds running; main trade-off: aluminum-only fin stack trails copper-core coolers on heat transfer.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Socket 478 and Socket 423 support keeps Pentium 4 era builds running
- ✓ 60mm ball bearing fan rated for longer life than sleeve bearing units
- ✓ Closely spaced aluminum fins increase heat dissipation surface area
- ✓ TX3 connector plugs straight into vintage 3-pin motherboard headers
Cons
- ✗ Aluminum-only fin stack trails copper-core coolers on heat transfer
- ✗ 60mm fan size tends to run louder than modern 92mm or 120mm coolers
- ✗ No Socket 370, LGA 775, or modern socket mounting included
- ✗ Sparse spec sheet omits fan RPM, noise level, and airflow ratings
Manufacturer description
This Socket 478 CPU cooler is a combination CPU fan and heatsink that's designed to provide optimal CPU cooling at a great price. The CPU cooler features a reliable 60mm ball bearing fan that provides excellent airflow, and a built-on aluminum heatsink designed with closely spaced fins to help increase heat dissipation and in turn provide a cooler operating environment for the CPU. Saving time and hassle, the cooler can be installed in minutes, through simple mounting on the mainboard.
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored StarTech.com 85x70x50mm Socket 478 CPU Cooler Fan using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro cpu coolers & fans category. StarTech.com's retro cpu coolers & fans lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for retro cpu coolers & fans of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Key Features
- Processor cooler
- (Socket 423
- Socket 478)
- aluminum
Full Specifications
| Brand | StarTech.com |
|---|---|
| Model | FAN478 |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Dimensions | 85x70x50mm |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Noise Level | 36 Decibels |
| Part Number | FAN478 |
| Material Type | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 20.18 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Power Connector Type | 3-Pin |
| Warranty Description | 1 year warranty |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1150 RPM |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 3.35"L x 2.76"W x 1.97"H |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00065030790130 |
Ready to buy?
StarTech.com 85x70x50mm Socket 478 CPU Cooler Fan - CPU Cooler with Heatsink & TX3 Connector (FAN478), Black is vintage hardware; the used and vintage market on eBay carries most of the live inventory. Prices and condition vary by seller and move in real time, so we link the live listing rather than quote a cached price. It also has an Amazon listing — check it for current price and availability. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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