Advertised Vs. Real Performance
This is probably the most crucial page, showing how accurate the data provided by the manufacturers/brands on their products is. Since nobody so far could verify these numbers, it was an open field for every brand to declare whatever it wanted, but this stops now. I should also note that I strictly follow the specific guidelines (ISO7779: 2018) for taking noise measurements in information technology and telecommunications equipment.
In the table below, anything in Red means bad news, while the Blue fonts are good!
| Performance Metric | Advertised Performance | Real Performance | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Speed (RPM) | 3000 | 3091 | +3.03% |
| Max Input Current (A) | 0.5 | 0.28 | -44% |
| Max Power (W) | 6.6 | 3.36 | -49.09% |
| Qmax (CFM) | 70.98 | 70.98 | 0% |
| Pmax (mmAq) | 4.23 | 4.23 | 0% |
| Max Noise Level (dBA) | 40.1 | 40.1 | 0% |
It is the first time I see everything in blue here! The primary performance specs, airflow, static pressure, and noise output are spot on because Alphacool used the Cybenetics report on this fan, which I also used to do this review. For those of you who are unaware, Hardware Busters uses the same lab as Cybenetics. Initially, Alphacool had different marketing specs, but after we pointed out some significant differences, they thoroughly searched and immediately changed all their numbers, following our results. Everybody can make mistakes, but it is how you handle them and how fast you respond, so kudos to Alphacool for its response.
Is there a wiring diagram available for the Alphacool Apex Stealth 2000 fan? We are using in a non-computer application & need to know which wire/pin is ground.
usually the black pin is ground
The Phanteks T130-120 might not leave room for competition, but it’s the only one 30 mm high, instead of 25 as all the others.
Looks a tiny bit unfair this way, if you ask me.
Very good review. Love the page 8 normalized noise tests.
– Woud love a ”real world” thermal test like der8auer did with a radiator too. Lot of numbers, cfm, noise etc but what does it translate in °C ?
– Wish you added to the charts : Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM /// be quiet SILENT WINGS PRO 4 120mm PWM /// ARCTIC P12 Max
And when you hit the max speed for exemple noctua remove it for the later stages.
I usually set my fans 800-1000 RPM idle and 1300-1800 for gaming.
We will add more soon. We are re-testing most stuff right now.
A real-world test would only cover 1% of all possible scenarios because some radiators need high airflow, others high static, and others a mix.
In the real world, you see static in cooling systems and airflow for chassis use.