{"id":31732,"date":"2012-09-10T15:28:38","date_gmt":"2012-09-10T14:28:38","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=31732"},"modified":"2012-10-01T17:39:05","modified_gmt":"2012-10-01T16:39:05","slug":"thermaltake-water2-0-pro-performer-cpu-coolers-vs-noctua-nh-dh14-water-vs-air-in-pursuit-of-5-0ghz-with-ivy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/thermaltake-water2-0-pro-performer-cpu-coolers-vs-noctua-nh-dh14-water-vs-air-in-pursuit-of-5-0ghz-with-ivy\/","title":{"rendered":"Thermaltake Water2.0 Pro &#038; Performer CPU Coolers &#8211; Water vs. Air"},"content":{"rendered":"<p align=\"center\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">\/\/ <![CDATA[\n                           google_ad_client = \"pub-7021221536180758\"; \/* 468x60, created 11\/11\/09 *\/ google_ad_slot = \"1949837292\"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60;\n\/\/ ]]><\/script><\/p>\n<p>We received the\u00a0Water2.0 Pro and Performer CPU watercoolers from Thermaltake for evaluation at the beginning of July and we have had them in two different\u00a0PC systems. Previously we had issues with reaching speeds over 4.8GHz with our <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=29402\">Core i7-3770K<\/a> using our <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=14237&amp;all=1\">Noctua NH-DH14 CPU cooler<\/a>. Now that we are testing faster and faster graphics including <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=28910\">the GTX 690<\/a>, we&#8217;d like to increase the speed of our CPU and this is our adventure in overclocking it further.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Water20Performer2.jpg?resize=345%2C336\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Performer\u00a0(above) is on sale for\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835106188\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835106188', '$47.99 at Newegg.com']);\" >$47.99 at Newegg.com<\/a>\u00a0after a $15 mail-in rebate; the suggested price is $79.99 . The Water2.0 Pro\u00a0(below) is currently at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835106189\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835106189', '$95.99 at Newegg']);\" >$95.99 at Newegg<\/a> after a $15 mail-in rebate and it compares fairly closely\u00a0in price with our <a href=\"http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835608018\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835608018', 'Noctua NH-DH-14 at Newegg for $84.99']);\" >Noctua NH-DH-14 at Newegg for $84.99<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>All three of these CPU coolers are ready for the hottest 6-core Intel CPUs or 8-core AMD FX processors,\u00a0and none of these coolers are considered budget by any means although the Performer is\u00a0currently sale-priced at\u00a0entry-level for watercooling.\u00a0 The Noctua NH-DH14\u00a0is aimed at the higher end of air coolers and we are interested to see the performance of these 3 coolers compared to each other as we try to push our Core i7-3770K to 5.0GHz.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Water20Pro21.jpg?resize=336%2C352\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Thermaltake offers an easy entry into the world of watercooling with the Water2.0 Pro and Performer, both of which are each complete packages that offer everything that you need to cool your overclocked CPU, including thermal interface material already pre-applied.\u00a0 Both Water2.0 units ship with a Thermaltake multi-socket mounting system that has a relatively easy and very straightforward installation. They are also adapted for 1156 and 775 platforms and Intel&#8217;s latest extreme 6-core CPUs as well as AMD socket AM2, AM2+ and AM3\/AM3+ platforms.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31839\" title=\"PRO-ftwMB\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C450\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C450 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB-300x281.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>As important as saving money on hardware is, this editor believes that the choice of a CPU cooler is critical to any PC build. The cooler should never be cheap or retail. Too much depends on it if you value keeping your CPU cool, or especially if you plan to overclock. It is highly recommended that you instead look for sales and use rebates to save money.<\/p>\n<p>This review is not just about \u201cvalue\u201d. If you want to cool a Phenom II X4 or even an X6, a value CPU cooler such as a <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?tag=hyper-n212\">Coolermaster Hyper N 212+<\/a> will suffice. Even Intel Sandy Bridge CPUs such as Core i5 and Core i7 run relatively cool until you begin to push the core speeds up to 4.5GHz or so. Unless you are supplying a relatively high voltage to most CPUs, a budget cooler will work nicely. Even stock heatsinks are evolving to keep up with the hotter running quad-, hex-core and octo-core CPUs.<\/p>\n<p>Intel\u2019s newest Ivy Bridge Core i7 CPUs mark a new and exciting advance in processing power, but they definitely require a higher quality heatsink than for an older Core2Duo or Core2Quad CPUs, or for overclocking our older AMD Phenom II 980 BE X4, especially if you want to cool them without excessive fan noise. Our review sample of the Intel Core i7-3770K requires excellent cooling once you approach 4.4-4.6GHz as its stock clock is only 3.5GHz and 3.7GHz with Turbo on.<\/p>\n<p>The FX series of AMD CPUs almost require watercooling or a high-end air cooler and a very beefy power supply unit (PSU) if you are really serious about <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=28491\">a Bulldozer overclock in excess of 4.4GHz as we were<\/a>.\u00a0 In fact, AMD also uses Asetek-built\u00a0liquid coolers for their FX series just as Thermaltake has done with its Water2.0 series.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/02\/WC-1.jpg?resize=384%2C252\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>\u00a0Heat is drawn away from the CPU by the\u00a0watercooler&#8217;s heatsink and is transferred by a liquid that is pumped through\u00a0flexible tubes\u00a0up into the array of hi-grade aluminum fins for dissipation in a radiator. Two large 120mm fans spin &#8211; one on each side of the radiator work together in a \u201cpush-pull\u201d configuration &#8211; blowing\u00a0cooling air through the radiator\u00a0to cool the\u00a0CPU-heated liquid which is cycled\u00a0for as long as the PC is on.<\/p>\n<p>However, the main question we want to answer is, are Thermaltake&#8217;s Water2.0 CPU coolers able to beat the air-cooling of our current Noctua flagship\u00a0cooler which allows us to clock our Core i7-3770K confortably to 4.8GHz?\u00a0 What about air-cooling vs. watercooling\u00a0regarding\u00a0convenience, safety, and ease of installation?\u00a0 We feel that after spending months with each cooler, we can give you some answers.<\/p>\n<p>Before we compare theseWater2.0 watercoolers to each other and to the flagship Noctua air-cooler, let&#8217;s unbox, install, and test them individually using <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ocbase.com\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.ocbase.com\/', 'OCCT 4.1 ']);\" >OCCT 4.1 <\/a>as an extreme test to load all the cores of our CPU\u00a0to 100%.\u00a0 This thermal torture test\u00a0produces far more extreme temperatures\u00a0than you will ever\u00a0find in gaming and it is a great test of thermal stability.<\/p>\n<p><!--pagetitle: Introduction--><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: The Specifications, Unboxing &#038; Installation--><\/p>\n<h2><strong>The Specifications, Unboxing and Installation<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The\u00a0Water2.0 Pro and Performer\u00a0coolers each arrive in a cardboard box packed with everything necessary to cool any modern CPU that you may buy. These coolers are \u201cuniversal\u201d \u2013 engineered to fit any modern Intel or AMD CPU\u2019s cooling needs \u2013 overclocked or stock. Here are the Water2.0\u00a0differences between the Pro and the Performer as compared from Thermaltake&#8217;s site:<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31765\" title=\"COMPARISON\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/COMPARISON.jpg?resize=465%2C629\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/COMPARISON.jpg?resize=465%2C629 465w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/COMPARISON-221x300.jpg 221w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The main difference is the thickness of the radiators; the Pro has a much larger cooling surface area due to its being nearly two times thicker than the Performer.\u00a0 First we will unbox the\u00a0Water2.0 Pro\u00a0CPU cooler.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Thermaltake Water 2.0 Pro<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Thermaltake Water2.0 Pro is designed for overclocking and it is engineered to easily fit any modern socket as it is held securely in place using a custom Thermaltake backplate to fit your motherboard. The fans are PWM and managed by the BIOS from 1200-2000 rpm.<\/p>\n<p>Here is the\u00a0Pro box that advertises its features at retail emphasing\u00a0its universal mounting system and durable pump and large radiator.\u00a0 Thermaltake describes it&#8217;s liquid cooling system (LCS) as &#8220;dazzles the performance&#8221;:<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31748\" title=\"Pro-box\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-box.jpg?resize=480%2C410\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-box.jpg?resize=480%2C410 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-box-300x256.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">No refill of the liquid is ever needed.\u00a0 The box also displays its features on the other side as it is sold at retail.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProOBV.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31845\" title=\"BOXProOBV\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProOBV.jpg?resize=480%2C353\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProOBV.jpg?resize=480%2C353 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProOBV-300x220.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Here are the Pro&#8217;s features from <a href=\"http:\/\/thermaltakeusa.com\/Product.aspx?C=1444&amp;ID=2116\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/thermaltakeusa.com\/Product.aspx?C=1444&amp;ID=2116', 'Thermaltake&#8217;s site']);\" >Thermaltake&#8217;s site<\/a>:<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<table style=\"width: 820px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"5\" cellpadding=\"0\" align=\"center\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<div>\n<div align=\"left\"><strong>Powerful\u00a0and Robust\u00a0 Pump Maximizes the Liquid Cooling Circulation. No Refill Needed. <\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> High performance Copper base plate accelerates the heat conductivity.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> High reliability low profile pump provides quick liquid circulation lowering the temperature.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> Pre-filled coolant reduces the liquid replenishment hassle.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> Low evaporation tube decreases the loss of coolant effectively.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> The high-tech sealed circulation system prevents leaking issue.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<div><strong>Thicker Radiator Benefits from the Larger Cooling Surface.<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> Powerful fan blows the heat of radiator out to the chassis to maximize cooling performance.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> Dual Automatic Adjustable 120mm PWM Fans maximize the cooling performance and tranquility.<br \/>\n<strong>\u00b7<\/strong> PWM control function fan (1200~2000rpm) automatic adjust the fan speed according to CPU temperature, minimize overheating possibility.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td valign=\"middle\">\n<div><strong>Universal Socket Compatibility<\/strong><br \/>\nUniversal socket support:<br \/>\nIntel: LGA2011, LGA1366, LGA1156, LGA1155<br \/>\nAMD: FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Here are its specifications:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProSPECS.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31846\" title=\"BOXProSPECS\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProSPECS.jpg?resize=480%2C764\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProSPECS.jpg?resize=480%2C764 480w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXProSPECS-188x300.jpg 188w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProSPECS.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31764\" title=\"ProSPECS\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProSPECS.jpg?resize=372%2C663\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProSPECS.jpg?resize=372%2C663 372w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProSPECS-168x300.jpg 168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 372px) 100vw, 372px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\">The cooler and its accessories are safely packaged within\u00a0a smaller inside box\u00a0that cradles the contents for\u00a0shipping.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31740\" title=\"PackingPro\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PackingPro.jpg?resize=480%2C459\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PackingPro.jpg?resize=480%2C459 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PackingPro-300x287.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/div>\n<p>Thermaltake instructions although brief are easy to follow if you have experience with water.\u00a0 If not, you might want to consult a Youtube walkthrough.\u00a0 Perhaps Thermaltake might consider including a CD or DVD with an installation video.<\/p>\n<p>Here is everything out of the box.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31749\" title=\"ProUnboxed\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProUnboxed.jpg?resize=480%2C448\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProUnboxed.jpg?resize=480%2C448 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProUnboxed-300x280.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">There are common parts and also parts included specifically for Intel and AMD CPUs.<\/p>\n<p>We had no difficulty following\u00a0the instructions for installing a\u00a0watercooler on either an Intel or AMD CPU platform but we were already used to working with an Asetek liquid cooling system as AMD uses a similar Astek-designed cooler for their FX series of CPUs.. <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31744\" title=\"Pro-2\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-2.jpg?resize=480%2C493\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-2.jpg?resize=480%2C493 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-2-292x300.jpg 292w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-2-997x1024.jpg 997w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Above is our Thermaltake Water2.0 Pro out of the box and ready for assembly and\u00a0installation.\u00a0Below is another view of the radiator and cooling tubes.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31743\" title=\"Pro-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-1.jpg?resize=480%2C503\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-1.jpg?resize=480%2C503 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-1-285x300.jpg 285w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-1-976x1024.jpg 976w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">The fans work in a push-pull configuration and they screw directly to the radiator.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31738\" title=\"Assembled-pro\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Assembled-pro.jpg?resize=480%2C542\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Assembled-pro.jpg?resize=480%2C542 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Assembled-pro-265x300.jpg 265w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Assembled-pro-906x1024.jpg 906w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Here are all of the accessories for use in any Intel or AMD system.\u00a0 We would have liked to see another Y-adaptor as not many motherboards have more than one CPU fan header.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31737\" title=\"Accessories-Pro\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Accessories-Pro.jpg?resize=480%2C238\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Accessories-Pro.jpg?resize=480%2C238 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Accessories-Pro-300x149.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>\u00a0Before we install our Pro, let&#8217;s look at the Water2.0 Performer.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Water2.0 Performer<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Water 2.0 Performer is identical to the Pro except for a thinner radiator.\u00a0 The Pro is approximately 150mm x 120mm x 49mm thick, while the Performer&#8217;s radiator is\u00a0nearly half as thick at\u00a027mm.<\/p>\n<p>Before we install the Thermaltake Water2.0 Performer, let&#8217;s look at its box. This time\u00a0the slogan\u00a0emphasizes value as, &#8220;the most valuable all-in-one liquid cooler&#8221;.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31741\" title=\"Perf-box\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Perf-box.jpg?resize=480%2C398\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Perf-box.jpg?resize=480%2C398 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Perf-box-300x248.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The other side of the box advertises its features.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfOBV.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31847\" title=\"BOXPerfOBV\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfOBV.jpg?resize=480%2C358\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfOBV.jpg?resize=480%2C358 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfOBV-300x223.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Performer is packed identically to the Pro and all of the accessories and parts are the same.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31739\" title=\"Packing-perf\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Packing-perf.jpg?resize=480%2C359\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Packing-perf.jpg?resize=480%2C359 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Packing-perf-300x224.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0features are shared between the\u00a0Water 2.0 units and here\u00a0are the specifications for the Performer from <a href=\"http:\/\/thermaltakeusa.com\/Product.aspx?C=1444&amp;ID=2115#Tab1\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/thermaltakeusa.com\/Product.aspx?C=1444&amp;ID=2115#Tab1', 'Thermaltake&#8217;s site:']);\" >Thermaltake&#8217;s site:<\/a><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31766\" title=\"PerfSPECS\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfSPECS.jpg?resize=374%2C667\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfSPECS.jpg?resize=374%2C667 374w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfSPECS-168x300.jpg 168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 374px) 100vw, 374px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31848\" title=\"BOXPerfSPECS\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfSPECS.jpg?resize=480%2C716\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfSPECS.jpg?resize=480%2C716 480w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/BOXPerfSPECS-201x300.jpg 201w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>The Water2.0 Performer is identical to the more expensive Pro except for the thinner radiator.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31742\" title=\"PerfUnboxed\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfUnboxed.jpg?resize=480%2C382\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfUnboxed.jpg?resize=480%2C382 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PerfUnboxed-300x238.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The thermal interface material is preapplied.\u00a0 It is very convenient for the first time, but you will need to buy more paste if you ever decide to remove your cooler as you cannot reuse the old paste effectively.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31745\" title=\"Pro,-rad,-fans\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-rad-fans.jpg?resize=480%2C327\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-rad-fans.jpg?resize=480%2C327 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Pro-rad-fans-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Both coolers are very similar, but the\u00a0Water2.0 Pro\u00a0on the\u00a0right is definitely made for cooling hotter CPUs by having a thicker radiator than the Performer&#8217;s (left).<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31747\" title=\"ProandPerf-SbyS\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-SbyS.jpg?resize=480%2C310\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-SbyS.jpg?resize=480%2C310 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-SbyS-300x193.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Both coolers sport\u00a0smooth copper\u00a0surfaces that contact the CPU and they\u00a0use the\u00a0same\u00a0mounting system and parts.\u00a0 Their contact surface is quite smooth but not as polished as the Noctua\u00a0NH-DH14, for\u00a0example.\u00a0 You may find yourself using the more traditional method of spreading the thermal interface material with a gloved finger or a credit card rather than using the &#8220;grain of rice&#8221; method.<\/p>\n<p>We used the Arctic Silver 5\u00a0(AS5) compound\u00a0after using\u00a0Thermaltake&#8217;s\u00a0pre-applied thermal interface material only once.\u00a0\u00a0You cannot reuse thermal material once its bond is broken and it must be removed and new material replaced.\u00a0\u00a0Other Thermal\u00a0Interface Compounds (TIMs) may be more effective at cooling, but AS5 is a decent thermal compound and it is very easy to apply.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31746\" title=\"ProandPerf-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-1.jpg?resize=480%2C243\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-1.jpg?resize=480%2C243 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ProandPerf-1-300x151.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>To cool well, there has to be a great contact surface.\u00a0 The block used for contacting the CPU is made from a single solid piece of metal:<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31826\" title=\"COPPERblock\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/COPPERblock.jpg?resize=260%2C200\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Thermaltake describes their &#8220;Skived Fin&#8221; technology\u00a0as the process of combing special cutting tools and a controlled shaving technique to produce a\u00a0heat-sink from a\u00a0single block of material.\u00a0 This\u00a0technology\u00a0facilitates a higher\u00a0heat transfer compared to fins soldered onto\u00a0a\u00a0cold plate.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Installation<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The installation of the Performer and the Pro are identical and pretty straightforward.\u00a0 The cooler head needs to be prepared.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-begin.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31833\" title=\"ring-begin\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-begin.jpg?resize=480%2C280\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-begin.jpg?resize=480%2C280 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-begin-300x174.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The supplied holding\u00a0rings\u00a0are universal and\u00a0the one\u00a0used for Intel\u00a0is assembled with parts that must be put together exactly right to fit your particular CPU.\u00a0 Refer to the installation guide to be sure it is correct.\u00a0 The parts are all easily identified and the installation is not difficult.\u00a0 Here it is ready for installation on a LGA 1155 platform.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-final.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31834\" title=\"ring-final\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-final.jpg?resize=480%2C371\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-final.jpg?resize=480%2C371 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ring-final-300x231.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Next the cooler head has to be prepared.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Clipready.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31835\" title=\"Clipready\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Clipready.jpg?resize=480%2C584\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Clipready.jpg?resize=480%2C584 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Clipready-246x300.jpg 246w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Here it is ready to be screwed into the motherboard&#8217;s waiting new backplate.\u00a0 However, before we do that, the radiator needs to be installed.<\/p>\n<p>First the fans have to be screwed into the radiator and you can use only one fan if you choose for quietness.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2install.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31832\" title=\"ready2install\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2install.jpg?resize=480%2C289\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2install.jpg?resize=480%2C289 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2install-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Next the question is where you want to have your radiator installed and do you want the fans to intake air from the outside or from inside of the case.\u00a0 A good location at the back of the case uses the Water2.0 radiator to replace the exhaust fan.\u00a0 Instead, we chose the top of our Overseer RX-I&#8217;s case\u00a0for both motherboard installations as it was very convenient for us.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/top-installation.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31836\" title=\"top-installation\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/top-installation.jpg?resize=480%2C360\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/top-installation.jpg?resize=480%2C360 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/top-installation-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In\u00a0our case, cool air is drawn in from the front of the\u00a0Overseer RX-I\u00a0and also in through\u00a0its side case\u00a0panel opening (although optional, we installed a 240mm fan), and the hot radiator heated air is exhausted\u00a0from\u00a0the top of the case.\u00a0 If the end user reverses the fans to draw fresh air in from the top of the case, make sure to use a dust filter and also make sure that the case that you use can handle this kind of airflow (below).\u00a0 The only disadvantage with our choice of location is that we needed to move our optical drive down two slots to accomodate the radiator.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31837\" title=\"radinstall-ftwMB\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/radinstall-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C360\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/radinstall-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C360 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/radinstall-ftwMB-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Next\u00a0the Water2.0&#8217;s backplate\u00a0needs to be prepared.\u00a0 We are using an Intel 1155 LGA platform and we used the correct Thermaltake-supplied backplate\u00a0by installing the proper\u00a0nuts into the holes provided for 1155.\u00a0 The instructions are quite clear and the backplate is well-marked for use with any CPU.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31827\" title=\"1155-backplate\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate.jpg?resize=384%2C337\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate.jpg?resize=384%2C337 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate-300x262.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>We did not like the plastic backplate as tightening the cooler head screws down snugly deformed the plastic and made it difficult to reuse it for another installation.\u00a0 It\u00a0may have been better\u00a0if Thermaltake\u00a0had\u00a0used a metal backplate and another method to prevent overtighting of the cooler screws.<\/p>\n<p>As a tip, don&#8217;t use the entire double stick tape provided by Thermaltake as shown below.\u00a0 Rather cut it in half as it is only used to hold the backplace against the motherboard when the screws are tightened down from the other side.\u00a0 Using\u00a0the entire piece\u00a0makes it very difficult to remove.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31828\" title=\"1155-backplate-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate-1.jpg?resize=384%2C337\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate-1.jpg?resize=384%2C337 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/1155-backplate-1-300x263.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The plastic backplate is placed over the motherboard&#8217;s CPU backplate as shown below and the mounting screws project all the way through the motherboard.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-backplateside.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31829\" title=\"MB-backplateside\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-backplateside.jpg?resize=384%2C469\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-backplateside.jpg?resize=384%2C469 480w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-backplateside-245x300.jpg 245w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Water2.0&#8217;s CPU cooler head is then placed over the motherboard so that the screws can be tightened down snugly to the Thermaltake backplate.\u00a0 Just don&#8217;t overtighten the screws\u00a0or you will damage the\u00a0soft plastic of the backplate!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-CPUside.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31830\" title=\"MB-CPUside\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-CPUside.jpg?resize=480%2C426\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-CPUside.jpg?resize=480%2C426 480w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/MB-CPUside-300x266.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Here it is about to be installed again\u00a0into our EVGA Z77 FTW motherboard.\u00a0 We removed the old paste and applied a fresh thin coat of AS5.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2instal-ftwMB.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31831\" title=\"ready2instal-ftwMB\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2instal-ftwMB.jpg?resize=600%2C450\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2instal-ftwMB.jpg?resize=600%2C450 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/ready2instal-ftwMB-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Here it is fully installed into our\u00a0ECS motherboard with a GTX 690 &#8211; notice how much room there is around it.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31839\" title=\"PRO-ftwMB\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C450\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C450 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/PRO-ftwMB-300x281.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Now check out the lack of room with a Noctua NH-DH14 installed in the same full tower\u00a0case.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Noctua-ftwMB.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-31840\" title=\"Noctua-ftwMB\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Noctua-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C409\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Noctua-ftwMB.jpg?resize=480%2C409 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Noctua-ftwMB-300x255.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Using a bulky air cooler such as the Noctua NH-DH14, there is almost no room to access the connectors at the top of the motherboard, the cooler barely clears the video card and you have to remove a fan (and your video card) to insert DDR3 into a slot.\u00a0 Watercooling absolutely wins as far as roominess and\u00a0convenience goes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Noise<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Thermaltake fans do a fine job of keeping the radiator and the liquid cool at regular rpm.\u00a0 However, when the cooler is under load the fans spin up and you can hear them.\u00a0 In contrast, the Noctua NH-DH14 is much quieter even under full load.<\/p>\n<p>The Water2.0 wins for convenience and the Noctua air cooler wins in the quietness department.\u00a0 Let&#8217;s head over for the test to see which cooler is more effective in keeping our Core i7-3770K cool above 4.8GHz.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: Test Configuration &#038; OCCT--><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Next page...\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-includes\/js\/tinymce\/plugins\/wordpress\/img\/trans.gif?w=720\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><strong>The Test<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We have been living with the\u00a0Water\u00a02.0 Pro\u00a0inside our\u00a0Overseer RX-I\u00a0for many weeks and we love it for all of our needs including extreme CPU overclocking.\u00a0 Almost any decent aftermarket cooler will allow one to clock the Core i7-3770K to 4.4GHz but then as voltages increase, so do the cooling needs and starting at about 4.6GHz-4.8GHz requires a high-end cooler.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look at our setup:<\/p>\n<h2><strong>The Setup and the Test <\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Test Configuration<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Intel Core i7-3770K (stock, 3.5GHz\/3.7GHz withh Turb0) overclocked up to 5.0GHz<\/li>\n<li>EVGA Z77 FTW\u00a0(latest beta BIOS, PCIe 3.0 specification; CrossFire or SLI 16x + 16x using PLX chip).<\/li>\n<li>8\u00a0GB Kingston DDR3-PC1866 RAM at 1866MHz (4\u00d72 GB in dual-channel supplied by Kingston)<\/li>\n<li>GeForce GTX 690 supplied by Nvidia<\/li>\n<li>500 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.2 hard drive<\/li>\n<li>ToughPowerXT 775 W power supply (supplied by Thermaltake)<\/li>\n<li>Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Pro Universal Cooler (supplied by Thermaltake)<\/li>\n<li>Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Performer\u00a0Universal Cooler (supplied by Thermaltake)<\/li>\n<li>Noctua NH-DH14 Universal CPU cooler (supplied by Noctua)<\/li>\n<li>Overseer RX-I\u00a0full tower case (supplied by Thermaltake)<\/li>\n<li>Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Compound<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Test Configuration \u2013 Software<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>GeForce WHQL\u00a0305.37 Driver; high quality filtering and optimizations off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Windows Vista 64-bit SP1; very latest updates<\/li>\n<li>DirectX latest.<\/li>\n<li>All games are patched to their latest versions.<\/li>\n<li>Highest quality sound (stereo) used in all games.<\/li>\n<li>Vista 64, all DX10 titles were run under DX10 render paths<\/li>\n<li>OCCT 4.1<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><strong>The Test<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>First we tested our idle temperatures.\u00a0 The Performer was unable to reach 5.0GHz as it started to get rather warm at 4.8GHz when .1325V was added.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31735\" title=\"IDLE-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/IDLE-1.jpg?resize=482%2C447\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/IDLE-1.jpg?resize=482%2C447 482w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/IDLE-1-300x278.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 482px) 100vw, 482px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>For our load test, we ran OCCT for at least ten minutes and recorded the highest temperature reported by a single core at maximum load.\u00a0 From 3.5GHz to 4.2GHz we used no additional voltage and then added +.025V with each +100MHz of core clockspeed increase until we reached +.1325V at 4.8GHz, +.1375V at 4.9GHz and +.1425V at 5.0GHz!\u00a0 <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-31736\" title=\"LOAD-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/LOAD-1.jpg?resize=423%2C779\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>It appears that 5.0GHz is not attainable with our level of cooling with either the Pro or the Noctua cooler under OCCT&#8217;s thermal torture test.\u00a0 We needed over 1.425V to achieve stability and the temperatures quickly rose to 105C and thermal throttling.\u00a0 The Pro was able to keep our CPU cool longer than the Noctua, but 4.9GHz was all we could achieve\u00a0needing +.14V<\/p>\n<p>The Performer did well until about 4.8GHz but at 4.9GHz it required .025V more for stability\u00a0than either the Noctua or Pro cooler.\u00a0 We saw it run OCCT for about 5 minutes before the temperature spiked to 105C and our CPU throttled.\u00a0\u00a0 The Noctua fits in-between the Pro and the Performer in terms of cooling efficiency in our test and the Pro definitely won the cooling contest at 4.9GHz.\u00a0 The Performer kept our CPU cooler than the Noctua until about 4.5GHz but needs the Pro&#8217;s thicker radiator if it is going to cool above 4.8GHz.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s head for our conclusion<\/p>\n<h2><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: Conclusion--><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>When it comes to cooling your overclocked hot Intel or AMD CPU efficiently and quietly, Thermaltake is the company to turn to.\u00a0 Just as we previously\u00a0saw\u00a0aftermarket aircoolers\u00a0quietly eclipse the stock cooler and the Noctua NH-DH14 silently pass the budget coolers, we see the\u00a0Water2.0 Pro\u00a0surpass our Noctua&#8217;s maximum cooling ability.<\/p>\n<p>If you have a Core i7 or\u00a0FX\u00a0CPU\u00a0that you really want to push to its maximum overclock, the Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Pro\u00a0may be for you. If you want to save money and have less demands on your cooler, the\u00a0Water2.0 Performer\u00a0is an excellent cooler and it is more efficient at cooling than even the more expensive Noctua cooler until about 4.5GHz. Thermaltake&#8217;s\u00a0Water2.0 Performer\u00a0and\u00a0Pro come highly recommended by this reviewer!<\/p>\n<h2>Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Pro<\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Pros: <\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The\u00a0Pro is a great watercooling solution for overclocking almost any modern Intel or AMD CPU near its\u00a0limits\u00a0and it beats our\u00a0best air cooler, the flagship\u00a0Noctua NH-DH14\u00a0in cooling performance.<\/li>\n<li>The Pro is a complete self-contained compact\u00a0liquid system that never needs refilling<\/li>\n<li>Everything is included for installation including thermal compound.<\/li>\n<li>It is relatively easy to install into a full tower and it takes up much less space than a bulky air cooler<\/li>\n<li>Parts are well marked and the instructions are clear and well written although a DVD would be a good idea for watercooling novice builders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The fan noise is noticeable under load.<\/li>\n<li>The backplate is soft plastic and easily deformed<\/li>\n<li>Warranty is one year<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2>Thermaltake\u00a0Water2.0 Performer<\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Pros: <\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li>The Performer is a great watercooling solution for overclocking almost any modern Intel or AMD CPU at a budget price and it does not compromise quality.\u00a0\u00a0 The only difference between the Pro and the Performer is their radiator&#8217;s thickness.\u00a0 It was able to keep our CPU running stable at 4.8GHz.<\/li>\n<li>It is priced at only $48 (at Newegg) after a $15 mail-in rebate!<\/li>\n<li>The Performer is a complete self-contained compact liquid system that never needs refilling<\/li>\n<li>Everything is included for installation including thermal compound.<\/li>\n<li>It is relatively easy to install into a full tower and it takes up much less space than a bulky air cooler<\/li>\n<li>Parts are well marked and the instructions are clear and well written although a DVD would be a good idea for watercooling novice builders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The fan noise is noticeable under load.<\/li>\n<li>The backplate is soft plastic and easily deformed<\/li>\n<li>Warranty is one year<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><strong>The Verdict<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>There you have it. <strong>Thermaltake&#8217;s\u00a0Water2.0 Pro\u00a0<\/strong>is an excellent no-compromise\u00a0all-in-one quiet cooler for a reasonable price considering its build, ease of installation, and all-inclusive package. It is well-deserving of our \u201cEditor\u2019s Choice\u201d award and it cools our own overclocked hot-running Ivy Bridge i7-3770K. Highly recommended!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-14291\" title=\"Editor's-Choice\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/editors-choice.jpg?resize=120%2C201\" alt=\"Editor's-Choice\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Thermaltake&#8217;s\u00a0Water2.0 Performer<\/strong>\u00a0is different from the Pro by virture of\u00a0a\u00a0thinner and thus less expensive radiator.\u00a0 For it&#8217;s budget price, it is an excellent\u00a0value watercooler that will allow you to get a high overclock &#8211; in our case,\u00a0effectively the same 4.8GHz that our much more expensive Noctua NH-DH14 achieved.\u00a0\u00a0The Performer also\u00a0comes highly recommended for its superb bang-for-buck cooling and it deserves our Great Value award.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/t3.gstatic.com\/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRxfBInukmNMVXQcYJY0wCMOdhHwRU0JTDjOyJ9ndAkl47y1hm2mW-KUQ\" alt=\"\" width=\"120\" height=\"200\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Our next article will be published this week and it will be a &#8220;mystery card&#8221; mega review.\u00a0 After that, you can expect a Kingston SSD evaluation comparing two enthusiast-level\u00a0HyperX SSDs to their consumer-oriented V<em>now <\/em>200 series versus hard disk drive on our Ivy Bridge platform.\u00a0 There is a lot coming from us at ABT!\u00a0 Make sure to join us on our forum for great discussions and you can even\u00a0help us direct future evaluations.<\/p>\n<p>Happy Gaming!<\/p>\n<p>Mark Poppin<\/p>\n<p>ABT Senior Editor<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Please join us in our <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/abt\/index.php\">Forums<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Become a Fan on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142', 'Facebook']);\" >Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Follow us on <a href=\"http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech', 'Twitter']);\" >Twitter<\/a><\/p>\n<p>For the latest updates from ABT, please <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?feed=rss2\">join our RSS News Feed<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Join our Distributed Computing teams<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Folding@Home \u2013 Team AlienBabelTech \u2013 164304<\/li>\n<li>SETI@Home \u2013 Team AlienBabelTech \u2013 138705<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1', 'World Community Grid \u2013 Team AlienBabelTech']);\" >World Community Grid \u2013 Team AlienBabelTech<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=31732\"><img decoding=\"async\" align=top title=\"Author: Mark Poppin\" src=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/Ttwater2.0IMAGElink.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":32029,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2533,7814],"tags":[5790,189,5791,5308,3377,5789,3704,1152,5513,5509],"class_list":["post-31732","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-abt-news","category-articles","tag-air-vs-water","tag-cpu-cooler","tag-liquid-cooling-system","tag-noctua-nh-dh14","tag-occt","tag-performer","tag-pro","tag-thermaltake","tag-water2-0","tag-watercooling"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31732","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31732"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31732\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32029"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31732"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31732"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31732"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}