Zalman CNPS10X Flex CPU Cooler Review

Conclusion

We can honestly say that we went into this review with a fair amount of trepidation. On the one hand, we had our somewhat less than optimal experiences with the CNPS10X Extreme fresh in mind but on the other, we were extremely curious about what the “Flex” version would bring to the table. We knew the foundation of the CNPS10X family was generally solid so the groundwork was definitely there for a wide range of high performance products which weren’t saddled with the Extreme’s issues. However, what we can now say is that the CNPS10X Flex indeed succeeded beyond our wildest fantasies and is easily one of the best all round coolers out there.

With the exception of extreme overclocking with extremely low air movement this Flex model can not only compete against the best of the best it can even pull out ahead in several instances. Even more impressive than its numbers on a highly clocked i7 was its performance in the lower end of the heat spectrum. Not everyone swaps out their stock Intel (or AMD) cooler for an aftermarket product because they plan to overclock; in fact many do it because they just want a better, yet quieter, solution. Zalman’s new heatsink excels in that category as well and does its “Flex” name justice by proving itself to be a true Swiss Army Knife which can be adapted to multiple situations.

The Zalman Flex is not only a very, very good performer but it also has a much improved installation process versus past coolers we have looked at from the CNPS10X family. The only area we hope Zalman addresses in future models is in the unattached bolts on the retention mechanism. If they had been a captured spring and bolt style similar to the Xigmatek “Crossbow” or the ones seen on the Noctua D14, this would have tipped the scales and turned an easy installation process into nothing more than a walk in the park. As it is, this installation process is light years ahead of the CNPS10X Extreme’s installation nightmare and is certainly above average when compared to most other products on the market. Additionally we have to admit that this new setup could account for some of the performance improvements seen over the Extreme.

Except for the slight issue with the installation of the bolts (and their annoying tendency to fall out of position) the only other issue we have with this cooler is the fact it does not come equipped with a stock fan. This is a minor issue at best as many of the big boys (like the Prolimatech, TRUE, etc) also do not come with a fan. However, while many 120mm fans can be had for a few dollars, the ones which will provide good performance on the Flex will tend to add a substantial amount to its overall price.

Lao Tzu once said “Failure is the foundation of success” and while we don’t think the Extreme was a failure by any means it didn’t live up to its true potential like the Flex does. By our way of thinking true success is the sum of details and by that definition Zalman Flex is a success of epic proportions. With a simple installation process, great results with a wide variety of fans, and high-end looks there’s a long list of things to like about this heatsink. If anything, we have to respect Zalman because in quick succession they learned from their mistakes with the CNPS10X Extreme and built a versatile, well-rounded cooler called the Flex. As such, it receives our Dam Good Award.


Pros:

- Excellent performance results
- Great looks
- Dual fan capable design
- Very few compatibility issues with running the Flex in two fan mode
- Reasonable price


Cons:

- Distinct faces may confuse people as to which side to use in single fan mode
- Older flat style fan wires can be a hassle to install and remove