OCZ Gladiator Max CPU Cooler Review

Introduction

With the introduction of Intel’s latest range of processors – the i7 series – thermal solutions manufactures have been caught between two minds: to create a new cooler which is better able to counter the 130W TDP of these new processors or to create a mounting mechanism for an existing CPU cooler in their range to allow it to fit the LGA1366 motherboards.

OCZ took the decision to do the later and created the Force II support brackets for the Gladiator Max. The cooler follows popular tower format design utilises a single 120mm fan but will this be enough cooling for the high heat-producing i7 920? Let’s find out…

OCZ’s Take on the Gladiator Max

Combining a distinctive stacked fin array, heat-pipe direct touch (HDT) design, and a large low-noise fan, the Gladiator series is built to take on the cooling challenges of today’s most powerful processors and ensure your system functions at its peak.

Utilizing the proven performance of the latest HDT design, the Gladiator series has direct contact with the processor using four copper heat pipes to ensure the most rapid heat transfer. The unique “folded” fin configuration also helps maximize surface area while maintaining a compact form factor.

Engineered to aggressively dissipate heat produced by high-speed CPUs, the Gladiator series can tackle any challenge in the overclocking arena. These coolers run quiet courtesy of a large fan mounted with anti-vibration rubber connectors to reduce excess noise, perfect for a media centre or office desktop where silence is a top priority. The versatile and user-friendly Gladiator series is compatible with AMD AM2/939/754/755 and Intel 775 sockets and can be installed quickly and easily by end-users at all skill levels.

Features

• H.D.T. (Heat-pipe Direct Touch) Technology
• 4 Pure Copper Wall Heat Pipes allow for superior heat transfer
• Anti-vibration rubber design for noise reduction
• Light weight aluminium fins
• 120mm highly efficient PWM fan
• Ultra-Quiet 19-26 dBA
• Easy to install: LGA775 push-pin/ K8 & AM2 tool-less clip

Specifications

• For Sockets AMD 754/755/939/940/AM2, Intel LGA775
• 4 Pure copper heat pipes for superior heat dissipation
• Pure Aluminium alloy fins for ultimate durability

Fan Specs:

• Size: 120mm x 120mm x 25mm
• Weight: 780g (with fan)
• Rated Voltage: 12V DC
• Fan Speed: 800-1500RPM
• Noise Level: 19.6 – 26.4 dBA
• Bearing type: Rifle
• Life Expectancy: 40,000 hours
• Connector: 4-pin with PWM

Dimensions:

• Heatsink: (L)63 x (W)120 x (H)165mm