Zalman CNPS 12X review - Introduction

Zalman over the years has been hard at work placing some very popular CPU coolers on the market. The one that everybody remembers and still is going strong where the initial CNPS (Computer Noise Prevention System) CPU cooler, the copper somewhat rounded "butterfly" based coolers. That model has been the biggest success of all their coolers. Anno 2011 Zalman is still going strong on the concept, though changed and styled different. And just when you think they can't change anything on that design they proof that a top notch new cooler based off that old design can still work out well and look gorgeous.

As such Zalman decided to reintroduce the CNPS 12X model, an updated model hinting to that older design yet now with three fans. The minute you'll see it you know you are looking at high-performance cooling (within the air based cooling segment of course).

The Zalman CNPS 12X comes with Zalman’s heat transfer solution by utilizing ‘composite heatpipe’ technology allowing a Q-Max of roughly 300W, along with a bigger design Zalman claims this cooler to be offering quiet operation and broad compatibility for Intel 2011/1156/1155/1366/775 & AMD AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2.

The product measures 151(L) x 132(W) x 154(H)mm and weighs 1000 grams. It has that rather abnormal silhouette, with two circular fin arrays, on one side you'll spot a fan, but also in-between it. Fans with an 850 to 1200 RPM (rotations per minute) and a sound output of just 24dBA.

Aesthetics wise the 12X got a little TLC as well, the base plate, the heatpipes and the fins themselves come with a nice black nickel plating.

Again, Intel LGA 2011, LHA 775, LGA 1155/1156, LGA 1366 CPUs are supported, as well as socket 754, 939, AM, AM2+ and AM3+ chips from AMD. So today we put that CNPS X12 to the test and the results surprised me. It really really good product. Have a look at it and then let's head onwards to the next page shall we?