CPU Cooler Replacement Fan Question

jhirales

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Aug 8, 2013
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Hi I'm thinking about going with the Xigmatek Dark Knight II CPU Cooler over the Hyper 212 Evo but have been reading reviews on it saying the stock fan on it makes too much noise at higher rpm's and was wondering what would be a good replacement fan to replace the original and if their is any extra benefit using in a push/pull configuration. Only requirements is it must be a 4 pin fan and have a blue led on it if possible to match my Cougar Dual X 120mm Blue LED Case Fans scattered throughout my build.

Some noise is okay on them but as long as they don't sound like a jet's taking off then I'm fine with it as well. Also will the dark knight II fit in my Corsair 500r without touching or interfering with my side panel fans of choice whether they'd be a 200mm Bitfenix Spectre Pro or dual 140mm Cougar Dual X fans? And one last thing if it does fit fine is the dark knight ii compatible with haswell z87 boards? :} Thanks.
 
According to reviews, the Xigmatek should be quieter than the Hyper212 EVO. Xigmatek includes cushioning rubber mounts, and includes extra ones for push-pull if you want it.
If you like, you might choose the less-expensive Gaia, which is also superior to the Hyper212 EVO:
http://www.techreaction.net/2011/07/07/review-xigmatek-gaia-sd1283/7/
http://www.techreaction.net/2011/11/27/review-cooler-master-hyper-212-plus/4/

Unlike the Hyper212 EVO (ignore the URL; it IS the EVO they tested), the Gaia never throttled, although it wasn't always the coolest depending on the fan used. Both got awards, but if you factor in the price, the Gaia wins hands down. The review articles describe some of the alternate fans that might be used.