Test Setup
We tested the Phononic HEX 2.0 using our standard i7 LGA2011-v3 setup. We test two configurations, stock at 3.3Ghz/3.6Ghz with Turbo and overclocked at 4.4Ghz. We keep the CPU Turbo setting enabled for both stock and overclocked configurations, however this would only be in effect with the stock test due to the way we overclocked the CPU using the multiplier.
| Test Platform | i7 LGA2011-v3 |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro 64-bit |
| Processor | Intel i7-5820K |
| Motherboard | Asus Rampage V Extreme |
| Graphics | MSI GTX 970 GAMING Twin Frozr V |
| Memory | 16Gb Crucial Ballistix Sport DDR4 2400Mhz @2666Mhz |
| Drives | Crucial BX100 500Gb SSD |
| PSU | Corsair HX1000i |
| Chassis | MicroCool Banchetto 101 |
The Intel i7 LGA2011-v3 and i7-5820K setup is a high end setup that will stress the CPU cooler under stock and overclocked load conditions. We also record idle temperature and sound performance.
We use a standardized set of software for both load test and temperature capture;
- HWiNFO64
- AIDA64 Engineer
We ran the AIDA64 Engineer stability test in 30 minute batches and recorded the results. We used the Core Max result as there was typically a variance across the cores of a couple of degrees.
We only select the cache, FPU and CPU tests, so no other component would generate impacting heat during the tests. We always “run in” our CPU cooler installations, essential to maximizing the performance of the cooler before testing begins.
BIOS Setting
We used the default PWM setting for all CPU cooler testing on the Intel X99 platform.
Sound Level Testing
We used a standard generic digital sound level meter at 15 inches. It is important to note we use the MicroCool Banchetto 101 Chassis for testing which is an open chassis. This means you are hearing the CPU coolers fan unobstructed. If you place any fan or cooler in an enclosed chassis, the results should be quieter in most situations.
Phononic HEX 2.0 Thermoelectric CPU Cooler Review
Package - 8.5
Performance - 7.5
Price - 6.5
Consumer Experience - 8.1
7.7
If you have a compact set up and you want cutting edge cooling technology, there isn't a better choice. If you are looking for a straight replacement for your Noctua NH-D15 on your X99 build, then it's probably not. Either way, the Phononic HEX 2.0 Thermoelectric CPU cooler is the best implementation of a TEC we have ever seen, and if you are building a small form factor system, this needs consideration.