Despite its name, the StarIce cooler from Asus does not deliver subzero temperatures. To keep the CPU cool more than just marginally, the device has to spin for all it's worth. This makes a racket, which we think is too much. Then there's the whistling from the cooler at low speeds, which is not exactly conducive to concentrated work.

What we did find positive were the numerous fan control options that Asus offers with this cooler.

It has to be said that its design is interesting. Modders looking for an unusual CPU cooler will be happy with the StarIce. Those who aren't put off by the awful noise get good cooling performance for money.

However, $49 is a hefty price to pay, considering its performance.