This article covers Thermalright Intel(サーマライト) 第12.

Overview

The Thermalright Intel LGA1700 Anti-Bending Buckle is a precision-machined aluminum alloy contact frame designed to address the warping issue common with Intel's 12th-gen (Alder Lake) and 13th-gen (Raptor Lake) CPUs. The stock Independent Loading Mechanism (ILM) applies uneven pressure along the long edges of the CPU substrate, causing a slight bend that can degrade thermal performance and long-term reliability. This buckle replaces the ILM's load plate, distributing pressure evenly across the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS). Measuring just 54x70x6mm and weighing only 20g, it's a compact, easy-to-install accessory that comes with an L-shaped screwdriver and a 2g tube of TF7 thermal paste. Priced around ¥3,200 (roughly $22 USD), it's an affordable upgrade for any LGA1700 builder, especially those using high-end chips like the Core i9-13900K or i7-13700K.

Compatibility Guide

This buckle is exclusively designed for Intel LGA1700 sockets, supporting both 12th-gen (Alder Lake) and 13th-gen (Raptor Lake) processors. It is compatible with all mainstream LGA1700 motherboards from brands like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock, but clearance around the socket area should be verified before installation. Some motherboards with large VRM heatsinks or capacitors near the socket (e.g., ASUS ROG STRIX Z690 series, MSI MPG Z690 CARBON) may interfere with the buckle's frame. The buckle does not affect CPU cooler mounting in most cases, but because it slightly alters the CPU's height, you should ensure your cooler's base plate makes full contact after installation. Large air coolers and AIO pump heads are particularly sensitive to height changes, so double-check the mounting pressure.

Product Info

Released in 2022, the Thermalright LGA1700 Anti-Bending Buckle quickly became a staple accessory for enthusiasts building on Intel's 12th/13th-gen platforms. It occupies a niche between entry-level and mid-tier troubleshooting accessories, offering a practical fix for a known design flaw. The frame is CNC-machined from aluminum alloy with an anodized finish, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance. The package includes the buckle, an L-shaped hex driver, and a 2g syringe of TF7 thermal paste (thermal conductivity ~12.8 W/mK). Warranty coverage is typically one year from the manufacturer. The buckle is available in black and silver; this review covers the black variant.

Best Use Cases

High-end LGA1700 CPU users (Core i9-13900K, i7-13700K): These processors generate significant heat and are more prone to warping. The buckle helps maintain a flat IHS, improving thermal transfer and reducing hotspot temperatures by 3-5°C on average, as reported by many users. Overclockers and heavy workload users: If you run long rendering sessions or intensive gaming, the buckle ensures consistent contact between the CPU and cooler, reducing the risk of thermal throttling and instability. The temperature headroom gained is especially valuable when pushing voltage for overclocking. First-time LGA1700 builders: Many newcomers are unaware of the ILM warping issue. Installing this buckle from the start prevents future temperature surprises and ensures a smooth build experience. The installation is straightforward, making it beginner-friendly. Who should NOT buy: Users on non-LGA1700 sockets (LGA1200, AM4, AM5) cannot use this product. Also, if your current CPU temperatures are already acceptable and you don't plan to overclock, the buckle may be unnecessary. However, for long-term reliability, preventive installation is still worthwhile.

Things to Consider

While the buckle effectively counters CPU warping, it is not a universal solution. Some motherboards may have clearance issues with the buckle's frame, especially those with tall VRM heatsinks or capacitors near the socket. Installation requires care to avoid damaging the socket pins; the included L-key is easy to use but torque control is manual. Overtightening can damage the CPU or socket. The buckle does not directly improve cooler performance—it only ensures a flatter contact surface. Competing products from Thermalright itself (e.g., the LGA1700-BCF) and other brands offer similar functionality, but this model strikes an excellent balance between price and build quality. If your CPU already runs cool and stable, the upgrade may not yield noticeable benefits. Users who have already lapped their CPU or are unconcerned about warping can skip this accessory. ## FAQ
Q: Can I use this buckle with Intel 14th-gen (Raptor Lake Refresh) CPUs? A: Yes, physically, because 14th-gen also uses LGA1700. However, Thermalright officially lists compatibility only for 12th and 13th gen, so use at your own risk. Some users have reported success, but official support is not guaranteed. Q: How much temperature improvement can I expect? A: User reports typically show a 3-5°C drop in CPU temperatures under load, but results vary dependi

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: Thermalright
  • Brand: THERMALRIGHT(サーマルライト)
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B0B5Q34SZ1
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.