To compare the Zalman’s performance, we compared them to a Vantec AeroCool, a copper-aluminum hybrid. Temperatures were monitored using an onboard Winbond chip through Motherboard Monitor 5. The idle temperature reading was taken after the system sat for 5 minutes. Load was simulated using 3dMark2001 in an endless loop for at least 10 minutes. Any minor temporary peaks were ignored and instead used the highest average temperature.
Since Zalman intends their products to run in silent mode, we tested all heatsink fans running at full rotation, and then throttled down using the included FanMate silencer. It must be noted that the Zalman’s high speed is around 2400rpm, compared to the AeroCool’s high of 5600rpm. The Zalman is almost silent even running at full speed, and the AeroCool still gives off some noise when throttled down to the minimum of 3500rpm.
Test platform
- Intel Pentium 4 2.53GHz
- AOpen AX4PE Max motherboard
- AOpen GeForce4 Ti4200
- 1024MB DDR333 memory
- Chenming Aluminum case (with side panel open)
Conclusion
The Zalmans are able to disperse more heat than the AeroCool, and still be quieter than a whisper, even when running at full speed. The monstrous surface area does it’s job well. Even the Aluminum-Copper hybrid outperforms other AlCus with only a fraction of the noise. As mentioned previously, users concerned about the weight of the cooler should consider the AlCu model. Others who want best of class cooling without the windtunnel should pick of the Zalman CNPS7000-Cu. This Copper cooler is the real hero here, being able to achieve the lowest temperatures while maintaining good airflow and low noise. Both of these heatsinks receive a well-deserved 9 out of 10, and the OCmodshop seal of approval!
Pros
- Looks very cool when installed
- Excellent cooling efficiency
- Very quiet operation in all modes
- Excellent machining quality
- Included FanMate
Cons
- May not fit on your motherboard
- High price ($39 for the AlCu, and $45 for the copper)
