So I'm building my first computer for my kids birthday next month and I'm totally overwhelmed. I spent like 1500 bucks on an Intel setup but then I saw a video about these contact frames. It looks like a little metal square that goes over the chip. The guy said it stops the cpu from bending or something? I have no idea if that's a real thing that happens or if I'm just being paranoid because I dont want to break my expensive parts. Are these things actually worth the money for a beginner or should I just stick to what came in the box? I really dont want to mess this up...
Honestly, the bending issue is a real thing with those LGA1700 sockets, tho it sounds like marketing hype. I have used the Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black CPU Contact Frame on my last few builds and I have no complaints at all. It is a very methodical way to ensure your chip stays flat without spending a fortune. For about 10 dollars, it is a massive relief for your budget compared to the 40 dollar versions. Im really happy with the results every time because the temperatures stay consistent and it feels way more secure than the stock lever. Just be careful not to overtighten the screws... basically it is cheap insurance for your expensive parts. Totally worth the small extra step during your build to save your hardware in the long run.