We should start off by saying that none of the other heatsinks we tested had 80mm fans. Then again none of the heatsinks we compared the Zalman CNPS3100 to even remotely resembled the it. When it comes to cooling, there are no rules, so let the comparisons begin! Looking first at the results of our tests with the small copper die template we can see that the Zalman was able to come in on top of every other heatsink, with the Blizzard S370-L off by just a few degrees or so.

The Globalwin, and Thermaltake heatsinks came runner-up with the vantec, coolermaster and neng tyi following. The Zalman had one of the quietest fans of all the heatsinks we looked at, and also one of the most unique mounting methods.

All in all it was a very solid performer in the larger copper die template tests as well. Here it posted one of the higher temperatures of all the heatsinks tested, which emphasizes its strengths in the smaller copper die template tests all the more. Now lets take a look at the rise above ambient temperature results.

When viewing the results of our synthetic tests it becomes clear exactly where the Zalman CNPS3100 places. The Zalman ekes out the number one spot in this comparison on the small interface die with its typical socket and fan design. The Zalman comes in next by a degree or so on the large copper die template.

Conclusion:

Zalman have managed to take a very unique concept which they have patented and produce a cooling solution with the goal to reduce the amount of noise produced by a computer. While designing primarily for this goal, they have also managed to manufacture a heatsink which can stand up to some very serious cooling duties. This is not a quiet heatsink for lightweight processors, but rather an extremely quite heatsink and fan solution capable of competing with the best heatsinks on the market today.

The GlobalWin WK-38 with its powerful and very noisy fan is less of a performer then the Zalman CNPS3100, which in the normal mode where all our tests took place, produced less sound then the power supply.

The lure of a pure copper design, coupled with the perfectly flat, and razor-smooth base of this machine milled finish indicates the level of quality devoted to this cooling solution. It is rare to see a truly unique cooling platform available to consumers these days, and it is even much more of a pleasure to see one so carefully designed, built and though out.

The CNPS3100 is an excellent choice for any computer where noise may be a concern. At about $40USD, it comes equipped with a 80mm fan, copper fins, and a small amount of thermal compound. So long as your case will allow the mounting of the fan over the processor, you can use this heatsink. If you're looking for a quiet cooling solution, look towards the Zalman CNPS3100.