CPU Cooler Charts 2008: Part 4

Coolink has licensed the design of the NH-U12F from Noctua, selling it as the“Silentator”. The fan itself, however, is a proprietary development.

The cooling performance of the Silentator is marginally better than that of its competitor from Austria. This is the result of the fan running 200 RPM faster. The drawback is that this cooler is slightly louder, which can be distracting in a home theater or office.

Even running at a low speed the Silentator performs well. It cooled our quad-core processor to a constant temperature of 74 °C. The fan is barely audible inside the case.

We didn’t like the fact that Coolink does not include all the attachments for the various sockets. You have to buy a specific version of the cooler for either socket 775, socket 939/754/940 or AM2/AM2+. Each version is specific to one socket only. Should you ever switch to another socket, you’ll be forced to buy another cooler. Noctua’s solution is much more elegant - all elements necessary for mounting are included. On the other hand, its lower price is a clear argument in favor of the Silentator. At around $55, it is significantly less expensive than its Austrian competition. Also, the Silentator weighs much less due to its much lighter fan.

cpu heatsink cooler

cpu heatsink cooler

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CPU100% LoadIdle
Temperature 12V69 °C36 °C
Temperature 5V73.5 °C38.5 °C
Noise42.1 dB(A)38.5 dB(A)
Fan Speed1,600 RPM600 RPM
Weight664gRow 4 - Cell 2
Intel Compat.LGA775Row 5 - Cell 2
AMD Compat.AM2/AM2+939/940

  • 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