Thermaltake
www.thermaltakeusa.com
We used one of Thermaltake’s Water 3.0 closed-loop CPU coolers in a previous build (the Clark Kent, another Haswell-based rig), so we were confident going in that the Water 3.0 Pro could provide the cooling performance necessary to effectively overclock the PAX Predator. As it turns out, our confidence was well-placed, as we easily pushed our Core i7-4770K to 4.4GHz without creating any undue heat.
This closed-loop CPU cooler comes with a 120mm radiator and two PWM fans that operate at speeds ranging from 1,000 to 2,000rpm, automatically adjusting their speed based on the CPU’s temperature and load. That means you get the performance you need when you need it and quiet operation when you don’t, without any micromanaging on your part.
The Water 3.0 Pro’s included Thermaltake fans feature double curve blades that are designed to deliver high air pressure at low noise levels; they are rated for a maximum airflow of 99cfm (at 2,000rpm) and a noise level of only 20dBA.
The Water 3.0 Pro’s aluminum radiator is 49mm (1.93 inches) thick.
This comparatively deep unit provides a large cooling surface to dissipate heat from the coolant. The Water 3.0 Pro is built with a reliable heatsink/ pump unit that boasts a full copper plate for optimal heat conduction. The pump itself is capable of operating at 2,900rpm, thus effectively moving the coolant and continuously cooling our Intel Core i7-4770K.
The Water 3.0 Pro can handle more than just Haswell processors. It works with a wide variety of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 2011/ 1366/1155/1156/1150 and AMD FM1/ FM2/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2 sockets.
Installation is easy, too. Just attach the Intel or AMD mounting bracket onto the heatsink/pump unit and lock it in place with the retention ring. Next, insert the appropriate screws into the mounting bracket. Finally, find the Intel or AMD backplate and screw the mounting bracket to the backplate.
We installed the radiator into the 120mm rear exhaust in our case. The radiator is sandwiched between the two fans, providing an optimal pushpull configuration.
Its easy setup makes the Water 3.0 Pro a joy to install, and its support for a wide variety of CPU sockets means we could use it with just about any modern processor. Best of all, its deep radiator and quiet, effective brace of fans get the job done with no mess or fuss. CPU heat will not be a problem for the PAX Predator.
Materials: Copper (waterblock), aluminum (radiator); Fans: 2 120mm fans (1,000-2000rpm);
Pump speed: 2900rpm; Pump power: 12V; Warranty: 3 years