Zalman CNPS10X Extreme CPU Cooler

Product(s): Zalman CNPS10X Extreme
Provided By: Zalman
Price: Find Lowest Price Online

Introduction: 

Today we've got the newest cooler from the Zalman lineup on the bench, the CNPS10X Extreme CPU Cooler. Now before we get too far, let's make the obvious observation about the CNPS10X Extreme, which is that is looks nothing like other Zalman coolers that we've see in the past which are traditionally a more uniquely shaped cooler when compared to manufacturers. The CNPS10X cooler had adopted the popular heatpipe tower cooler design, but there are a couple features that Zalman had included that are unique to the CNPS10X cooler.

In the next section we'll take a closer look at the CNPS10X Extreme and its features.

First Impressions:

The CNPS10X Extreme cooler is a hefty competitor, weighing in at 920 grams and making it one of the heavier coolers we've ever tested. You're definitely going to want to make sure you've got enough room in your case before you pickup this cooler, but in most full or mid-tower cases it should all fit in, just don't be surprised when it won't fit into your mini HTPC case.

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Box (Front)

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Box (Back)

 

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Side View

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Rear View

 

So right away you can see that the CNPS10X is a pretty standard design when compared to most other "bigger" coolers available. The CNPS10X has a nice black-pearl nickel plating which gives it a nice darker look.

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Side View

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Top View

 

Right away we also notice something on the top of the cooler, which is the fan controller which will allow you to switch back and forth between Auto and Manual fan speeds. This is a very nice feature as most coolers available are either PWM (auto) or manual, but Zalman has decided to include the option to switch back and forth if you want to.

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Fan Controller

Now as you can see in the pictures, the fan controller slides in and out of the top of the cooler and if you want to move the controller to the outside of our case or move it to a move convenient location you will be able to thanks to the fan controller extension cable. This is some forward thinking by Zalman because chances are good that you aren't going to want to be opening up your case just so you can switch fan modes.

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Fan Controller

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Fan Controller Removed

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Fan Controller (w/ Extension Cable)

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Side View

 

The accessories included with the CNPS10X Extreme are pretty standard and should include everything you need to get the cooler installed on pretty much any different socket. Also included with the accessories is a full tube of the new Zalman ZM-STG2 thermal paste.

Zalman CNPS10X Extreme - Accessories