Not too long ago Zalman introduced their all new CNPS X10 series of high-performance CPU coolers. A little while ago they already launched the fourth product coming from that line, the X10 Performa, a silent yet good performing CPU Cooler with PWM Fan, suited for Intel Socket 1366/1156/775 and AMD AM2/3 processors.

As the name already indicates the Performa should perform and typically that means a pricy product as hey .. it is Zalman, the make the best coolers in the world and that costs money to make, distribute and sell.

None the less, Zalman also took  note of the global crisis and is very aware of the fact that not everybody can spend 80 EUR on a CPU cooler these days. With that in mind the went back to the drawing board, trying to uphold the quality standards their other cooler have, then came up with a new design, stripped away the more flashy and gimmicky items and bingo, a new child was born, a more budget-minded version of the say CNPS 10X Extreme, the Performa.

So when you look at the product, you'll say  .. dude .. that's just another heatpipe based cooler. Zalman does however have a few tricks up their sleeves, as we'll show you today. Have a peek at the  product tested today and then lets head onwards into the review.