Performance
With all three coolers tested we can see some pretty predictable results. The X31 is nearer the bottom of the chart, just behind the Cooler Master Nepton 140XL. The X41 is on par with the Corsair H75 and be quiet! Dark Rock 3 and the X61 just beats out the Noctua NH-D15. These results are pretty much what I expected, as there is 5c difference between the X31 and X41 and 1c difference again to the X61, although I suspect the X61 will reap bigger gains in the overclocked test.
Interestingly the X31, X41 and X61 clocked along side each other in our sound tests. The X41 and X61 are predictably the same given they both feature two of the same fans. The X31 is 1dBa louder at idle, but it does feature slightly cheaper model fans, but all three are still whisper quiet overall.
The results once again are pretty much what I expected, wit the X61 being one of the best coolers we’ve ever tested, the X41 is about on par with the Silverstone TD04, making it one of the best 140mm radiators we’ve ever tested and the X31 is fairly average, sitting along side the Zalman Reserator and GamerStorm Lucifer.
Amazingly, the X61 came top of our acoustic tests, showing that it was very quiet indeed and that is likely due to the variable speed pump doing its job. The X31 and X41 didn’t favour so well, but they’re pretty much where you would expect a 140mm/120mm radiator to be.
This is using the new Asetek mounting kit that debuted with the H105, I love it. I wish I could buy extras to replace my existing Asetek-based AIO coolers.
Interesting, well written review!
Two minor points:
– the graphs would be so much easier to read if you would highlight the product(s) discussed in the current review
– some “Stock Delta Temps” are suspect, e.g. the result for the Enermax Liqtech 120 seems wrong