Sound Level Testing
While we were testing cooling capabilities, as outlined in our introduction article, we were also tracking the sound level of each of the coolers using a Risepro SPL meter attached to a boom arm pointed directly at the fans of the radiator at a distance of 12 inches. We recorded the dB(A) level for each fan and pump speed tested. The ambient room sound level measured 33 decibels. Displayed below are the results of our Stock Clock Testing.
Max Fans – 100% Pump Speed
With fans dialed up to maximum levels, the AZZA Cube 360 created 49 dB(A) of noise in the room which matched the 360 ATMOs as well. The LIQMAXFLO was quieter at 44.7 dB(A) and the MEG CORELIQUID E360 was a notch higher at 50.7 dB(A). Subjectively, the AZZA Cube 360’s noise levels were not obnoxious and were comparable to the others.
Note that at this speed, the AZZA Cube 360 was running at 1850RPM, the Enermax LIQMAXFLO 360 is running at 1900RPM, the MSI MAG CORELIQUID E360 at 1800 RPM, and the Cooler Master MASTERLIQUID 360 ATMOS at around 2500 RPM.
1500 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
Matching up the fan speeds at 1500RPM, the results change a bit, with the AZZA Cube 360 in third place at 43.4 dB(A) being led by the 360 ATMOS and LIQMAXFLO at 39.9 and 41.8 dB(A) respectively. The CORELIQUID E360 picks up the rear at 45.9 dB(A).
1000 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
The field shifts a good bit at 1000 RPM with the AZZA Cube 360 taking the lead at 37.4 dB(A) ahead of the CORELIQUID E360 and 360 ATMOS that are tied at 38.7 dB(A). The LIQMAXFLO drops into last place at 40.9 dB(A). Subjectively, this is where all but the LIQMAXFLO seem to have faded into the background of the room.
600 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At the slowest 600RPM setting, the AZZA Cube 360 maintained its 37.4 dB(A) noise level (likely due to the pump humming along at full speed) which was good for a tie in second place with the 360 ATMOS. In the lead was the MEG CORELIQUID at 35.8 dB(A) and in the caboose was the LIQMAXFLO at 39.9 dB(A).