Xigmatek Prime SD1484 Review

Conclusion:

Between the Xigmatek Prime SD1484 and the recently reviewed NZXT Havik 120, two very similar coolers, it seems that we have determined that the numbers are more of a mixed bag than anything else. In both idle tests, we have a match on performance but we see a clear indication that the Xigmatek Prime SD1484 performs a little bit better under load in comparison to the previously-tested NZXT Havik 120. This may be due to the direct-contact heatpipes being a little more efficient than a solid base, or maybe 140mm fans versus 120mm ones. Nevertheless, the results are clear — even if its only by a couple of degrees C — though this is where the extra cost for the Xigmatek Prime SD1484 is justified.

One thing that I did want to point out is that even though there are a lot of similar features between this cooler and the NZXT Havik 120, the designs are not connected. After speaking with NZXT at CES this year, I had a chance to bring up my observations. Coincidentally, Xigmatek and NZXT chose the same OEM/vendors for certain components which explains a lot of the similarities.

Out of the box, the Xigmatek Prime SD1484 is a cooler that offers very good performance at a pretty good price point. In a 2-fan configuration, the performance from this cooler came close to the Noctua NH-D14 which is and will be a good benchmark for quite a long time. Of course, adding an additional fan will cost some extra money but it will help the performance even more. For a price of $64.99, this cooler is a great option for an upper-middle end solution that can handle just about any heat load at even "more than modest" overclocks.

Pros:

• Direct contact heatpipe base
• Knife-edged fins reduce airflow resistance through cooler
• 2-point clamping force applies even pressure over CPU die
• Compatible with Socket 2011 systems out of the box

Cons:

• Only one fan included