Test Set Up
We tested the Raijintek Aidos CPU Cooler for sound and cooling performance using an i5 LGA1150 set up. We tested two configurations, stock with turbo and over clock with turbo.
- Operating System: Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit SP1
- Processor: Intel i5-4670K
- Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z97M-DS3H
- Graphics: PNY XLR8 GeForce GTX 770
- Memory: 16GB Corsair Vengeance Pro DDR3 2400Mhz
- Drives: 2 x 128GB SSDs OS RAID 0 (SanDisk SSD SATA III 128GB)
- PSU: Corsair HX1000i
- Chassis: MicroCool Banchetto 101 Chassis
Software used for load tests and temperature capture;
- HWiNFO64
- AIDA64 Extreme
We ran the AIDA64 Extreme 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 selected the cache, FPU and CPU tests, so no other component would generate impacting heat during the tests.
Fitting
Installing the Raijintek Aidos CPU Cooler wasn’t difficult. You need to remove the fan and screw the heatsink in place. There are no access issues and it doesn’t clash with the surrounding motherboard and memory. We can’t really say much more about it, it was trouble-free on our mATX Gigabyte GA-Z97M-DS3H.
BIOS Setting
We used the default PWM setting and left it alone!
Sound Level Testing
We used a standard generic digital sound level meter at 15 inches. It is important to note we used the MicroCool Banchetto 101 Chassis for testing which is an open chassis. This means you are hearing the CPU coolers fan unobstructed.
Thermal Paste
We use Arctic MX-2 for all heatsink cooler tests and in fact we use it for all builds, test or otherwise. We run the AIDA64 Extreme stability test as our burn in programme for thermal paste, which allows the paste to spread out and share the love across the mating surfaces. It is worth doing, we noted a drop in throttling after 30 minutes of burn in, and we don’t like throttling!
Results
First, the stock run; We set up a simple stock set up to test the Raijintek Aidos CPU Cooler under normal conditions.
Stock temperatures at Turbo speeds and under a stress test load are respectable.
The Intel i5-4670K is not known as a cooker, and the Aidos handles it well. Next, sound levels and overclocking results.
Raijintek Aidos CPU Cooler Review
Package - 8.4
Performance - 8.9
Price - 10
Consumer Experience - 9
9.1
It is a good little performer, and because its a tall cooler with eight heat pipes, you do have a little more confidence it's not cooking your i5 CPU during heavy sessions. Our overclock test was approximately a 20% overclock, not the greatest, but will give you some headway in gaming and applications, without throttling the CPU due to heat, not bad for £14.99.