Cooling

SPCR's Updated 2012 Small CPU Heatsink Test Platform

Cooling | Reference|Recommended
Four previous favorites from Noctua and Scythe run through their paces once again on our updated small CPU heatsink test platform. With Sandy Bridge hardware, the new testbed is closer to contemporary SFF builds.

Recommended Heatsinks

Cooling | Reference|Recommended
Recommended Heatsinks lists SPCR-reviewed top cooling devices for CPUs, VGA and other hot computer parts, ordered by cooling performance and low noise. Latest update on July 10, 2010.

SPCR's 2010 CPU Heatsink Test Platform [Updates: 10 April & 31 May]

Cooling | Reference|Recommended
Our CPU heatsink test platform has been updated with a hotter, more power hungry CPU. Eight of the top heatsinks we tested previously get put through the wringer once again. Some continue to excel while others drop to the wayside.

Anatomy of the Silent Fan

Cooling | Fans|Controls | Reference|Recommended
A distilled summary of fundamental design elements and key factors that affect the acoustic performance of DC axial fans in the role of PC cooling. This information is presented apart from our fan test methodology or actual fan review articles to keep information overload at bay. NOTE: A Postscript Q&A features Dorothy Bradbury, UK fan maven extraordinaire.

SilverStone Argon AR01 & AR03 CPU Coolers

Cooling
A solid mounting system helps the SilverStone Argon AR01 and AR03 direct-touch heatpipe coolers reach elite status among SPCR tested CPU heatsinks.

Noctua NH-U12S Slim Tower Heatsink

Cooling
The NH-U12S is an attempt by Noctua to take everything we like about the larger NH-U12P and cram it into a slimmed down form factor for improve compatibility.

Cooler Master Seidon 240M: Dual Fan Liquid CPU Cooler

Cooling
The Cooler Master Seidon 240M is a self-contained liquid CPU cooler with a dual fan radiator. Though equipped with a very quiet pump, its low noise performance doesn't justify the US$100 price when compared to top air coolers.

Phanteks PH-TC12DX CPU Cooler

Cooling
The colorful Phanteks PH-TC12DX shares the same DNA as the massive dual tower PH-TC14PE, in a more modestly sized single tower body and 12cm fans.

Phanteks PH-TC90LS Mini Cooler

Cooling
The PH-TC90LS is Phanteks' take on a budget, low-profile CPU cooler. The question is whether this basic 45 mm tall heatsink with an thin, open frame fan can truly take the heat.

Thermalright TRUE Spirit 120M CPU Heatsink

Cooling
Bonus Xmas Day review: Thermalright touts the TRUE Spirit 120M as the world's smallest 120mm fan tower cooler. Though it stands only 146mm tall and lacks the traditional Thermalright nickel-plating, it still packs a potent performance punch.

Akasa Euler Fanless Thin ITX Case

Cases|Damping | Cooling
A find by some UK SPCR forum enthusiasts, the Euler is a surprising entry to the fanless thin mini-ITX case arena by a brand not closely associated with either silent computing or cases. Our exclusive review of this small, passively-cooled case from Akasa.

Noctua NH-L9i Low Profile CPU Cooler

Cooling
The Noctua NH-L9i is a high-end miniature CPU heatsink designed with compatibility first and foremost in mind. Measuring just 95 mm x 95 mm across and standing 37 mm tall, it fits in the vast majority of low profile SFF cases.

Zalman CNPS9900DF Dual Fan Flower Heatsink

Cooling
The latest update to the iconic Zalman CNPS9900 series adds more girth and a second fan... in an ultimately futile attempt to get back to the top ranks of CPU coolers.

Prolimatech MK-26 Multi-VGA Cooler

Cooling
The Prolimatech MK-26 is a sprawling nickel-plated GPU heatsink with six heatpipes and enough surface area for two standard 140 mm case fans. It offers excellent performance and cross-compatibility for a premium price.

SilverStone Heligon HE02: Monster Fanless CPU Cooler

Cooling
The SilverStone Heligon HE02 has all the design elements of a superb fanless CPU cooler. It's huge, has wide fin spacing, and its odd asymmetrical design takes advantage of all the space around a typical CPU socket.
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