Thermalright ASF-RED AM5 CPU Holder, Corrective Anti-Bending Fixing Frame, AM5 Full-fit Fixed Non-Marking Mounter, AM5 Anti-Bending Contact Frame, CPU Cooler Standard

I have built four AM5 builds now for my home PC's (two 7600x and two 7800x3D) and each time I buy one of these. I dislike the odd design of the 7000 series integrated heat spreader as it is far harder to clean up thermal compound when uninstalling a CPU. I looked into what could help and ended up going with these as a inexpensive very well engineered mounting plate that performs multiple slight benefits. Certainly this isn't needed but for me thanks to the low cost I buy them anyway. 1.) Less thermal compound is true, it doesn't make a perfect seal but compound doesn't get down as far on the cpu making it easier to clean up when moving the CPU to a new build or selling it. 2.) Certainly provides even pressure completely around the CPU unlike factory method where it pushes down at two spots. 3.) Might even help with temps with possibly not flexing the CPU thanks to the even pressure. 4.) It just looks great and in some builds you can actually see this behind the cooler which is a bonus as it looks amazing. None of these are HUGE reasons to buy one but they are nice to have and I plan on buying them when more of my AM4 systems are moved over to AM5. Update: A negative is they don’t clean up well. I am using MX6 compound and it doesn’t wipe off clean off these plates. And not because of the weird AM5 notched cpu design but just the flat surface of these kinda stain almost from compound. Even using 99% rubbing alcohol. Future designs should consider a surface that can wipe 100% clean like the IHS on the cpu that cleans up well. Not a deal breaker but part of the allure of these is a nice look but that goes away the first time you try to clean up compound off of it.

This Thermalright AM5 contact frame is a nicely made little upgrade for an AM5 build. The aluminum construction feels solid, and the included hardware and thermal paste are convenient. I like that it is specifically designed for the AM5 socket and is intended to provide more consistent CPU mounting. It is an inexpensive addition to a new build and a nice accessory to have when putting together an AM5 system.

Installation: Installing an AM5 CPU contact frame is a straightforward process but requires careful handling. You'll need to remove the existing CPU retention bracket from your motherboard, which typically involves unbolting a few screws. Once that's done, the contact frame is placed over the CPU, ensuring a secure and even fit. This simple modification helps improve contact between the CPU and the cooler, optimizing thermal transfer and performance. Lower Temps Allow for Higher CPU Clocks: One of the main benefits of an AM5 contact frame is improved cooling. By enhancing the connection between the CPU and the cooler, the frame helps dissipate heat more efficiently. This leads to lower CPU temperatures, which in turn allows for higher clock speeds without the risk of overheating. Enthusiasts and overclockers often see significant gains in performance as the CPU can maintain peak performance for longer periods. Prevents Bending Due to Even Pressure: A key feature of the AM5 contact frame is its ability to evenly distribute pressure across the CPU. Standard CPU retention brackets can sometimes apply uneven force, which can lead to warping or bending of the CPU. The contact frame addresses this by providing uniform pressure, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring that the CPU maintains a flat, even surface for better cooling and reliability. No Thermal Grease Mess: Another advantage of using an AM5 contact frame is the cleaner application of thermal paste. The even pressure applied by the frame helps prevent the thermal grease from spreading unevenly or seeping out during installation. This results in a more efficient thermal interface between the CPU and the cooler, minimizing mess and improving overall cooling performance without the need for frequent reapplications. Many are Misled By How AM5 Compatible CPUs Utilize Temperature for More Performance: The AMD 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs are designed to operate at higher temperatures to boost performance by utilizing thermal headroom to dynamically increase clock speeds. This allows the CPU to push itself to its maximum potential under load. However, the cooler your CPU runs, the more thermal room it has to sustain higher boost clocks for longer periods, resulting in better overall performance, especially in demanding tasks like gaming and content creation. Instead of focusing on the fact that your CPU temperatures might look the same before and after, pay attention to the MHz (speed) of your CPU. The extra performance you get will depend on the overclock settings you've applied to your CPU. Overall as a beautfily machined $10 budget addon for modern systems, this item serves to be one of the best products that should be in everyone's computer!

Does what’s intended to do, fits very well. AIO and the cpu holder worked great, no overheating of temps and the mounts easy

I recently upgraded my CPU to an AM5 socket, and like many enthusiasts, I was concerned about potential bending and stress on the motherboard due to the heavier cooling solutions commonly used today. Enter the Thermalright ASF-Black AM5 CPU Holder – a corrective anti-bending fixing frame that promises to alleviate these worries. Upon receiving the ASF-Black, I was impressed by its robust construction. The metal frame feels substantial and well-built, instilling confidence that it can handle the weight of even the largest CPU coolers. Installation was a breeze, thanks to clear instructions and a design that perfectly aligns with the AM5 socket. Once installed, the ASF-Black effectively reinforced the motherboard around the CPU socket. I could immediately sense a reduction in flex when mounting my cooler, easing my concerns about potential damage over time. Additionally, the black finish adds a sleek touch to my build, blending seamlessly with the rest of my components. In terms of performance, I've noticed no adverse effects on CPU temperatures or system stability. If anything, the added support provided by the ASF-Black may even contribute to better thermal conductivity by ensuring a secure connection between the CPU and cooler. Overall, I highly recommend the Thermalright ASF-Black AM5 CPU Holder to anyone using an AM5 socket. It offers peace of mind knowing that your valuable components are protected from the stresses of heavy cooling solutions. Well worth the investment for the long-term health of your system.

Perfectly fits around my CPU and the thermal paste is the cherry on top.

Not sure if it gives any passive cooling but it fits well, looks great, but once you put on a AIO its pretty much hidden from view. I used it with my 7700x and B650-P Pro and had it 4 years and both MB and CPU runs like a champ.

This thing is awesome. I don’t think my specific chipset had bending issues anymore- but this thing looks awesome, is super solid, and has kept my cpu safe during moves and general use.

No se puede pedir mas, esta placa es necesaria.

With the AMD cpu been so solid this wont be needed to stop any "bend" unlike the intel but with the notches it will stop your thermal paste going everywhere....if you can get it at a good price it makes everything look more solid and you wonder why with the price of these motherboards why wasn't this something they had already

Araştırdıktan sonra ürünün termal seviyede bir etkisinin olmadığını görsem de(intelde olduğu gibi) AM5 işlemcilerdeki farklı girinti çıkıntılardan dolayı aralara termal macun kaçıyor ve temizlemesi çok zorlaşıyor. Bu ürün tüm işlemciyi çerçevelediğinden dolayı macunu daha sonra temizlemek istediğinizde ya da işlemciyi sökmeniz gereken durumlarda aralara macun kaçmasını engelliyor.

It increases the cooling rate of CPU meaning CPU can operate higher clock at full load

It's a good solution to protect from extra thermal paste , and also for mini itx fan installation especially noctua small fan in a motherboard like rog strix b850 itx.