Rosewill RCX-Z2-EX CPU Cooler Review

Published: February 2, 2006

Editor: Amber Lupala

Provider: Rosewill

Conclusion

Since this is a small cooler, as expected I had no clearance issues.No concern with this cooler hitting any of the capacitors, RAM, the Northbridge cooler, etc.After turning it on, I was a little disappointed that there is no LEDs installed on the cooler; it seems like most of today�s coolers add that little stylish touch.

Test System:

AMD 64+ 3200+ S939 Winchester
Biostar T-Force Motherboard
Corsair 1GB ValueSelect PC3200 DDR RAM
GeForce 7600GS
Western Digital 250 GB 7200 rpm harddrive

Idle temperatures were taken running Windows and full loads were taken while running SiSandra�s Burn-in Module.Temperatures (in degrees Celsius) were recorded for 2 fan speeds (high and low), with the results compared with two recently reviewed air coolers: the previously mentioned Rosewill Z3 at high speed and an OCZ Tempest.Ambient temp was about 20C.

2000 MHz Stock Speed:

Results after overclocking to 2200 MHz-

2200 MHz Stock Speed:

As seen in both tests, the Z2 outperformed the OCZ cooler but wasn�t able to match the performance of its bigger brother, no doubt due to the larger form factor and horizontal mounting of the Z3.Nonetheless, this was very respectable performance from a small cooler and is more than adequate for most applications.The fan noise was moderate for a cooler with no fan controller; the large fan wasn�t silent but wasn�t the loudest fan in my build either.

Conclusion:

Once again, Rosewill has demonstrated that they know cooling solutions with the RCX-Z2-EX CPU cooler.This small cooler packs a punch when it comes to cooling performance, and its extremely simple installation make it perfect for the user looking to improve their computer�s cooling ability without dealing with the added hassle of a more sophisticated cooling solution.While it lacks some of the fancy features other coolers provide, this cooler delivers where it matters the most.

Pros:

+ Very easy installation with complete set of accessories
+ Compatible with a wide range of processors
+ Good cooling/sound performance
+ Small form factor with clearance around the cooler

Cons:

- No protective sleeve installed over the cooler base
- No LEDs on the fan