In our first review for be quiet! we found the Dark Rock Pro 2 to be an excellent product, can the same be said of the Shadow Rock TopFlow?
It certainly can. TopFlow is an exceptional top-down CPU cooler which has good build quality along with a secure mounting system which can be relied upon. When used on the Intel Sandy Bridge-E platform stock performance is very competitive, nearing that of respectable dual-tower coolers. Unfortunately when the frequency is nudged up to a substantial overclock the gap in temperature increases and TopFlow falls behind.
During normal operation the Shadow Wings 135mm PWM cooling fan is quiet at 800RPM (53%) and presents no annoyances, at 1500RPM (100%) the fan is noticeable but is by no means a disruption so the noise levels emitted from TopFlows cooling fan is testament to its silence which will please those who demand silence.
Priced at a mere £35 the Shadow Rock TopFlow is one of the most affordable top-down solutions, other rival options are positioned £10-15 more making our cooler under review a likely option for enthusiasts with less space inside their computer chassis.
Shadow Rock TopFlow is an impressive top-down CPU cooler which delivers on build quality, visual appearance, silence and even affordability. If you are looking for a good CPU cooler and require something which is low-profile then the TopFlow should be considered for the short-list.
Pros
+ Pleasing to the eye
+ Good build quality
+ Quiet cooling fan
+ Secure mounting system
+ Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for substantial overclocks
+ Pleasing to the eye
+ Good build quality
+ Quiet cooling fan
+ Secure mounting system
+ Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for substantial overclocks
Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net.