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  1. CPU FAN vs. CPU OPT (When to use which) - CG Director

    Dec 12, 2022 · What is CPU OPT (CPU_OPT)? CPU_OPT, standing for “CPU Optional”, is mainly used when you have more than one fan on your cooler/radiator, and you need someplace to plug it in.

  2. CPU-FAN versus CPU-OPT on motherboards: What's the difference?

    Apr 15, 2024 · The CPU OPT header is an additional connection for special processor cooling accessories, such as specialized coolers with multiple fans or water-cooling components.

  3. CPU_FAN vs. CPU_OPT on Motherboards: What's the Difference?

    Dec 24, 2023 · CPU_OPT (also CPU_FAN2, etc.) stands for "CPU Optional" and is a four-pin fan header for a secondary CPU fan found on large air coolers. CPU_OPT has only three pins on some …

  4. CPU OPT vs CPU FAN: What is the Difference? - Tech Guided

    May 2, 2022 · A motherboard’s 4-pin CPU_OPT (‘CPU Optional’) header is its optional header for plugging in CPU fans. If your CPU cooler uses two different headers, you can plug the main one into …

  5. CPU_FAN vs CPU_OPT: Differences and Best Uses Explained

    Jul 19, 2024 · CPU_OPT stands for CPU Optional Fan. As the name suggests, it is an optional header/connector for additional cooling fans. If you have a large aftermarket heatsink with dual-fan …

  6. CPU_FAN vs. CPU_OPT for AIO; Which is better? - The Windows Club

    Jan 6, 2024 · Selecting the correct cooling system is crucial to seek optimal performance and temperature control for the processors; we have two options here, CPU_FAN and CPU_OPT.

  7. CPU OPT vs. CPU FAN: How Do They Differ? - EaseUS

    Jun 30, 2025 · CPU OPT is a 4-pin header used in some systems to work as a secondary connection for the cooling system. As clear from its name, it is an optional header used for large PC heatsinks or to …

  8. What Does 'CPU_OPT' Indicate on a Motherboard? - techlyq.com

    May 17, 2025 · Alright, so CPU_OPT, short for CPU Optional, is an extra 4-pin spot on your motherboard where you can hook up another fan. It’s usually hanging out near the main fan header, …

  9. CPU_OPT vs CPU_FAN headers: How are they different and which one …

    May 30, 2024 · Let's find out the difference between the CPU_OPT and the CPU_FAN headers, and see which one to connect your CPU cooler to.

  10. CPU_OPT vs. CPU_FAN | Everything Need to Know - TechLatest

    Dec 12, 2025 · The CPU_FAN header is the main control point for your processor’s cooling, while CPU_OPT simply supports extra airflow. Your PC won’t start safely without a fan on CPU_FAN, but it …