Introduction:

    Recently, myself and a friend who builds customized computers were discussing the finer points of good cooling when we ended up discussing ideas as to what makes a good CPU cooler. We started comparing all of the important features that must be built in to the cooler's design. That includes things like its installation methods, fabrication materials, aesthetics, and performance.

With Intel returning us to a cooler climate with the successes of the much cooler and efficient Core 2 series, performance doesn't necessarily carry the decision weight it use to carry. A good example would be driving in to your local PC store and comparing what kinds of coolers they have on the shelf. My local Frys carries top end coolers, many middle of the range coolers, and even dirt cheap coolers. Even with the obvious elite coolers up on the shelves there were several people more buying the middle range based on looks and price, versus buying the top end coolers. And there were more people buying the cheap ones as well due to price. And I'm sure most of them were ill-informed for whatever reason.

The one question I still hear while buyers look around deciding what to buy is, "Do I have to remove the motherboard?" If it's a very capable performance cooler, then the answer is most likely going to be yes as it was with 4 out of 5 standing in line at Frys. That answer was followed by a short sigh and a comment saying they wished there were decent coolers that offered a better method.

If you've been reading our site then you probably know that a couple coolers have come through that required the standard Intel installation method, or offered a similar more secure method involving a top mounted bracket with pins. No screws or tools were required and installation was quicker than even the default Intel cooler. Here on the test bench I have the SunbeamTech Contact Core Freezer. It's aimed at finding a happy medium between performance coolers and installation methods.

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