CPU Coolers Roundup June 2008

Review Pages

1. Akasa AK-965BL
2. Evercool HPH-9525CU
3. Nexus HOC-9000
4. Nexus XiR-3500
5. Scythe Orochi
6. Scythe Shuriken
7. Scythe Zipang
8. Titan TTC-NK35TZPW
9. Methodology - testbed
10. Results - Price range $0~$30
11. Results - Price range $30+
12. Conclusion

In this second cpu cooler roundup we are had the chance to test several new models that offers very good performance while they were affordably priced. Let's summarize which cpu coolers we tested in this roundup:

Akasa AK-965BL: A very good performer by Akasa priced at just $25. Very easy installation process, low noise with PWM function makes it a good proposal for users who wish to upgrade their cooling efficiency without spending a fortune. Performance is also good even at high RPM and under demanding overclocking conditions.
Evercool HPH-9525CU: A low-height design with copper materials that failed to impress us with its performance. In most cases using the Intel's stock CPU cooler will give you the same results..
Nexus HOC-9000: A product designed for overclockers. Despite its nice design, the cooler showed an average performance. We expected more from a $58 cooler. Users can "mod" this cpu cooler with several stickers but we feel this product needs something more to attract our views.
Nexus HiR-3500: A product that really confused us ...While its design is impressive, its performance was mediocre. The installed fan produces low noise Nexus needs to give us a higher performance, at least for a cooler priced at $65.
Scythe Orochi: A "monster" cpu cooler...You won't believe the overall dimensions of this product until you see it! But does size matter? Obviously yes. The cooler easily competes with other products that include dual fans. If we had to complain about something that would be its rather strange installation method. Anyway if you have $60 to spend and you are looking for a product that will rock your overclocking needs, this can be the perfect match. We feel that two 80mm rotating fans could further improve the performance of this baby, but anyway you are also free to "mod" this cpu cooler.
Scythe Zipang: A low profile product from Scythe mainly addressed for media center computers. Overall, the cooler performed well and we have no problems to suggest it, even it was less exciting than its bigger brother (Orochi).
Scythe Shukerin: A very small cpu cooler that will definitely fit in your PC case, since its height is just 64mm. It managed to outperform Intel's stock cpu cooler, so its a good upgrade for your HTPC.
Titan TTC-NK35TZ-PW: Another product from Titan with very low price. Compared with the Akasa AK-965BL, it performed better in the low fan speed mode tests, even we feel that the Akasa AK-965BL is slightly better.