Prolimatech Genesis CPU Cooler Review

We decided to compare the Prolimatech Genesis against 9 other CPU coolers from a variety of price ranges that we have previously had experience with. As the Genesis is supplied without fans but offers compatibility for both 120mm and 140mm fans, we decided to use a pair of Prolimatech’s Blue Vortex 14 fans. They are 140mm fans which operate at 1000 RPM and use a 3-pin connection. For more information on Prolimatech’s Blue Vortex 14 fans, please visit their webpage.

Testing method:

• Stable recorded CPU temperatures from a 15 minute idle test
• Stable recorded CPU temperatures from a 15 minute load test
• The cooler’s fans are set at 100% speed unless otherwise stated
• All tests are repeated to check the consistency and reliability of the results
• Delta temperatures are used in the charts to provide more accurate results
• Maximum recorded noise output at 100% fan speed
• The supplied thermal paste is always used to make the results a fair interpretation of the cooler’s stock performance
• The temperature threshold we set before calling the test a fail is 65^oC above ambient but if the cooler manages to complete more than 75% of the test before rising above the 65^oC delta mark, we allow it to complete the test, provided it is capable
• A +/- 1 degree Celsius margin of error is incorporated by our CPU/GPU temperature recording method
• A +/- 0.1 degree Celsius margin of error is incorporated by our ambient temperature recording method

Test system:

• MSI P67A-GD65
• Intel Core i7 2600K
• 4GB DDR3 1600MHz
• XFX Radeon HD 4870 1GB
• 128GB Kingston SSDnow V100 (OS)
• Corsair TX650
• NZXT Phantom Case
• Supplied Prolimatech thermal paste

Comparison used:

• Phanteks PH-TC14PE
• Corsair H80
• Corsair H100
• Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO
• Enermax ETS-T40-VD
• Thermaltake Frio Advanced
• Noctua NH-D14
• Thermalright Silver Arrow
• Prolimatech Megahalems (with 2 Prolimatech Blue Vortex 14 fans in push/pull configuration)

Software used:

• Windows 7 Professional 64-bit
• HWMonitor
• Prime95