Test Setup
We tested the Scythe Mugen 5 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.
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.
| 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 | Ballistix Sport LT 16GB Red DDR4 2666Mhz Memory Kit |
| Drives | Crucial MX200 500Gb SSD |
| PSU | Corsair HX1000i |
| Chassis | MicroCool Banchetto 101 |
AIDA64’s CPUID showing 3.3Ghz stock and 3.6Ghz Turbo clocks. We used the i7-5820K with some Ballistix Sport LT 16GB Red DDR4 2666Mhz Memory. This is our standardised enthusiasts test rig, with all tests controlled using the same conditions to ensure compatible results.
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 is 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.
Scythe Mugen 5 SCMG-5000 CPU Cooler Review
Package - 8
Performance - 9
Price - 8
Consumer Experience - 8.5
8.4
It's no surprise that we like the Scythe Mugen 5 SCMG-5000 CPU Cooler, we like Scythe in general. The Mugen 5 is a very capable cooler, especially in overclocked conditions, and enthusiasts dream. It's also very quiet, and well put together. If you want to add more cooling, you can add a second fan and try for better overclocks. With that said, you can easily go the other way if you want some very quiet and good cooling.
