Setup and test results …
Configuration …
For our test system we used following configuration:
Intel Core i5-4460 @ 3200 MHz with 0.99 Volt
MSI B85M-E45 Rev. 2.0
2x 4GB DDR3-1600
MSI GeForce GTX960 4GB OC
Cooler Master 500W Silent Pro PSU
Fractal Design Define R5 Case
Windows 7 Ultimate 64 Bit Service Pack 1
For measurement we used following software: Prime95 V28.7 und SpeedFan V4.51
Thermal grease: not specified (supplied)
The ambient temperature was at 20°C.
For silent mode, the fan was fixed to 300rpm, for maximum cooling to 1400rpm. Idle testing was done only running Windows and SpeedFan. Stress testing was done by using small-FFT test of Prime95. Energy saving features have not been deactivated in BIOS/UEFI for testing.
Scythe Kabuto 3 test results …
In comparison to the boxed cooler of the Intel Core i5-4460. The boxed cooler could not be tested in silent mode at high loads, as the temperatures exceed the save operating range quickly.
The sample we tested unfortunately had a fan with grinding noises which were evident during operation at low speeds from close distance. During usual operation the fan starts to be audible at about 900rpm.
The low minimal speed of 300rpm affects the core temperature negatively, but this is only a flaw if you operate the cooler non reflective permanently at minimum speed. An individual fan control curve allows for a silent fan in idle which gets powerful if needed.
In our CPU Cooler Comparison 2016 Part 2 we found the Thermaltake BigTyp Revo as a close competitor. Pricing as well as cooling capacity is very close in both top blow coolers, but the fan speed is more favourable in the Scythe fan.
We explained the differences in measuring CPU temperatures and how to overclock in detail in our Intel Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 OC guide.
Scythe Kabuto 3 result and general impression …