Cooler Master Hyper N520 CPU Cooler Review

Testing

Methodology

At Verdis Reviews, we test CPU coolers by booting the PC up into Windows Vista and then taking temperatures in both idle and load states.

The temperatures are taking using Core Temp and averaging the four core temperatures. For idle testing, we simply leave the PC for 30 minutes and then come back and take the temperature readings. For load, we run prime95 for 20 minutes before taking temperature readings once more.

Thermal results will be recorded with the i7 920 CPU @ 2.67GHz (stock) and overclocked to 3.6GHz with Vcore and QPI voltages of 1.35V.

Finally, noise is that final factor that is tested; however, at Verdis Reviews, we are not yet at the stage where we can use high tech sound equipment and therefore, noise testing is left to the human ear – not the most scientific but it gives a good impression of how noisy the cooler is.

Ambient temperature was 18 degrees and a number of coolers were used for comparison purposes.

Results

The results would appear to correlate with the N520 fitting into the “all-rounder” category with it placed about mid range. The real high end coolers are able to knock a few extra degrees but eh N520 is not too far behind.

Again, under overclocked settings the hyper N520 does fall away and is able to match the same temperature as the NH-U12P at full load which is impressive indeed.

Noise
Obviously with dual fans, the noise outputs are going to be greater than with a single fan. However, they are not very audible and although at close range they are quite noticeable, when combined amongst other case fans they do not stand out.

Cost
Retailing at a shade under the £30, the Hyper N520 proves to be an excellent cooler without breaking the bank.