CPU Cooler Charts 2008: Part 4

Features
By Daniel Schuhmann
published

Xigmatek XP S964: You Get What You Pay For

The Xigmatek XP S964 uses a heatpipe design similar to that of the HDT S1283, but it lacks the direct-touch technology. The cooler includes four heatpipes that conduct heat to aluminum cooling fins cooled by a 92 mm fan.

Pushpins hold the cooler in the motherboard. The pushpin arrays are attached to the cooler with four screws. Since the motherboard does not have to be removed from the case, installing the cooler takes only a few minutes.

The XP S964 performs almost as well as its bigger brother. Under full load, it cooled our quad-core processor to 70.5 °C. It was rather loud, though, producing a noise level of 44.2 dB(A). When the CPU idled, temperature dropped to 39.5 °C with the fan reaching a very low noise level of 37.3 dB(A).

The XP S964 costs about $30.

cpu heatsink cooler

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CPU100% LoadIdle
Temperature70.5 °C39.5 °C
Noise44.2 dB(A)37.3 dB(A)
Fan Speed2,750 RPM1,500 RPM
Weight600gRow 3 - Cell 2
Intel Compat.LGA775Row 4 - Cell 2
AMD Compat.AM2/AM2+939/940

Daniel Schuhmann
66 Comments Comment from the forums
  • Proximon
    Interesting review! Good to see so many factors presented so well. Someone needs to build a data base for what cooler fits in which case and MB though... I understand there are some problems with the Xigmatek blocking Dimm slot 0 when placed correctly for dual-core, on some boards... If so would likely apply to other 120MM coolers.
    Reply
  • kelfen
    Interesting, It is pretty cool how you kept track of the data :)
    Reply
  • Hehe, this review makes me feel great, I bought this cooler about three months ago, for about $30 after rebate on Newegg, and its good to see I made not only the right choice, but the BEST choice POSSIBLE, as far as my bang for my buck!
    Reply
  • Ogdin
    That xigmatek gets even better when you put a decent fan on it too.
    Reply
  • leo2kp
    I use the Thermaltake Big Typhoon and I never see it anymore on charts, but I understand it to be nearly as good as the Zalman 9700LED. My CPU idles at 30C and sits at 50C fully loaded (1st gen E6600 @ 3GHz), although I am using an upgraded fan. Anyway, I think the Big Typhoon should have been tested too =D
    Reply
  • 00mike000
    who agrees that toms hardware should make a CPU and or VGA coolers chart to go in the chart section would be a great way to compare the majority of coolers out there
    Reply
  • JPForums
    The temperatures are a bit higher than my experiences would suggest. However, they seem to be consistent so there is really no issue. It's probably just a difference in how the temperatures are measured and the calibration of my equipment. Still it would be interesting to see the variation in temperatures measured using several different methods.

    I agree with mike, CPU/VGA cooler charts would be useful.
    Reply
  • martel80
    JPForumsThe temperatures are a bit higher than my experiences would suggest. However, they seem to be consistent so there is really no issue. It's probably just a difference in how the temperatures are measured and the calibration of my equipment. Still it would be interesting to see the variation in temperatures measured using several different methods.I agree with mike, CPU/VGA cooler charts would be useful.Calibration of equipment? Several different methods? Dude, match the room temperature in the first place. LOL
    Reply
  • schwally
    I put a scythe fan in mine that runs at a higher rpm, and nearly inaudible decibels. Keeps it cooler and quieter. My one problem with the cooler is the push pins. I know they sell the backing seperate, but it would be nice if it was all one. Anywho...
    Reply
  • truehighroller
    I think the Thermalright extreme would beat them all why is it not used here?
    Reply