This is one of the few cooler round-ups done using an Intel processor. Most roundups are based on AMD's Socket A processors. AMD has been the overclocker's choice because of the ability to unlock the multiplier and the infamous AXIA core which is highly overclockable.

But there are still plenty of Intel users like me. And AMD boards have been plagued with inaccurate temperature readings because of its external thermistor. This can create false readings. Even external thermistors like the Senfu thermometer give misleading results when used with socker coolers like the Thermoengine because the fan is actually cooling the thermistor, instead of the processor!

So, the coolers in this roundup will be tested using an Intel processor, with its on-die sensor. This will give the most accurate reading. I will be using Senfu Thermometer to monitor the room temperature and the CPU temperature will be recorded using Motherboard Monitor 5.

Test Setup

   
Other stuffs are pretty irrelevant. So, they are not listed here.

Most of the socket coolers in the market can be used with both Socket A and Socket 370 motherboards. Here are the coolers covered in this roundup :-

Alpha PEP66
Global WIN FOP38
Global WIN WBK32
Global WIN WBK38
Kanie Hedgehog 238-M
OP Experimental Cooler
Taisol CGK742092
Thermalright SK-6
Thermaltake SuperOrb
Thermaltake Volcano II

Malaysia has a hot climate with ambient temperature ranging from 28 to 35°C. That's HOT!!! So, the results will be very useful for those who want to know how well these coolers perform during summer, if you are not from Malaysia.

The tests were done during the night, when the ambient temperature is stable at around 30.0ºC to 30.5ºC. The ambient temperature is monitored constantly using the Senfu thermometer.

The objective of my test methodology is to simulate a condition as similar to that experienced by many people out there. All the testing was done inside my casing with all the case fans turned on except for the GlobalWin FA420 (which is on the back of the Voodoo3). All the coolers were tested as is - No modification like lapping, bending the clips, etc. were done.