The SilverStone Argon AR07 Cooler Review: Tower Cooling on a Budget
by E. Fylladitakis on June 9, 2017 9:00 AM EST- Posted in
- Cases/Cooling/PSUs
- SilverStone
- Cooler
Thermal Resistance VS Sound Pressure Level
During our thermal resistance vs. sound pressure level test, we maintain a steady 100W thermal load and assess the overall performance of the coolers by taking multiple temperature and sound pressure level readings within the operating range of the stock cooling fans. The result is a graph that depicts the absolute thermal resistance of the cooler in comparison to the noise generated. For both the sound pressure level and absolute thermal resistance readings, lower figures are better.
As expected, the Argon AR07 is no match for its significantly more expensive rivals, which can deliver better thermal performance at any comparable noise level, plus their operating range usually allows them to reach noise levels that are below the AR07’s capabilities. However, on the other hand, the Argon AR07 is more than a match for the slightly cheaper and simpler Cooler Master EVO 212. Both coolers have about the same operating range in terms of noise output, but the Argon AR07 is capable of much better thermal performance across the entirety of this range. At higher noise levels, the Argon AR07 is much closer in terms of thermal performance to the premium products of the range rather than to the budget-oriented EVO 212.
Facebook
Twitter
RSS
32 Comments
View All Comments
DanNeely - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
An impressive result for the price. Assuming sufficient room in the case and sustained availability; I think this might replace the 212 as my default recommendation for anyone looking for an affordable replacement for an Intel stock cooler either for performance or because the pushpins on the latter are throwing the installer for a loop.ImSpartacus - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
Yeah, I LOVE when I see reviews of the real products that people actually buy.A >$100 CLC review is neat, but most people are better served by funneling that extra money into their components and getting a cheaper cooler.
FreckledTrout - Saturday, June 10, 2017 - link
FYI: The Cryorig H7 already is the replacement for the good ole standby Cooler Master EVO 212. The H7 is quieter, cools better, and mounts easier than the EVO 212. The H7 is my default recommendation. The AR07 could be right in there although but I would need to see the H7 pitted against it.Hurr Durr - Sunday, June 11, 2017 - link
>Hive Fin™>Jet Fin Acceleration™
>Jet Fin Acceleration System™
Cooler made by lawyers. Literally.
alchemist83 - Sunday, June 18, 2017 - link
You read that in a review right? ''EVO 212 replacement''. So did I. Cryorig do sell some great kit, dont have the cleareance or cooling power of my Macho Rev.B at the same price.Arbie - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
I'd look at the Scythe Mugen 5 instead. It is $12 more than the AR07 but is shorter and cools much better - nearly as well as the Noctua tested here. I just got one and am very pleased with the quality, fit, and performance.djayjp - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
Very useful these cooler reviews. Keep it up!Rocket321 - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
My case specs list 165mm maximum cooler size. Not sure if I trust this with only 2mm of clearance! Still, seems like a great competitor to the Evo.Rocket321 - Friday, June 9, 2017 - link
It looks like the highest point of the fan extends slightly above the tip of the heatpipes. Can anyone confirm the 163mm height includes the fan?tonyou - Sunday, June 11, 2017 - link
According to SilverStone, 163mm includes the fan:http://www.silverstonetek.com/product.php?pid=621