The 3D cooler can keep the CPU as cool as 54°C (just over 129°F). Such cool operation, however, requires a fan speed of nearly 4,000 RPM, which creates a remarkably high noise level of 49.1 dB(A). At these noise levels, intense concentration on work is impossible.

Mirror polish: the contact surface on the Rocket cooler

At a lower fan speed setting of 2,300 RPM the fan runs at a noticeably quieter 44.9 dB(A). Of course, performance drops greatly as well - the CPU runs at 61°C (nearly 142°F).

Gigabyte Rocket retail packaging