Asetek VapoChill XE II (Extreme Edition II) [AC]

Performance Summary & Final Conclusions:

Overall I am extremely pleased with the new VapoChill Extreme Edition II. The switch to an AC powered compressor eliminates the need for an oversized PSU that was previously required to power both the system and VapoChill. The new compressor also maintains lower temperatures while still achieving the 180 watts of cooling of the previous XE model. The new ChillControl utilizing a USB connection allows for easy and real-time adjustment within windows. Lastly the universal evaporator head combine with the various clamshell kits allows for an easy upgrade when the inevitable bigger and faster CPU is released.

While utilizing air cooling may yield some nice speeds, the combine fan noise generated for adequate cooling is not something everyone is willing to live with, and of course one always keeps and eye on the CPU temperature. The VapoChill provides a user with constant sub-zero temperatures at a relatively low noise level. The noise generated from a VapoChill is not the usual high-pitched whine from fans spinning at high RPM, but rather it is a low hum from the compressor, similar to the sound of a typical refrigerator.

The VapoChill case design looks good, has plenty of room for everything, and is very functional for the most part. However the one thing I do not like, and my only gripe, is the power supply placement. Having the power supply pushed up against the evaporator hose gives me a slightly uneasy feeling. Unfortunately there really isn't any other location the power supply could be mounted without the case being totally redesigned.

Since its founding in 1997, Asetek has been a solid company providing quality products like the VapoChill and WaterChill. By taking leading edge technology and pushing it further with the VapoChill, Asetek has been cooling some of the fastest record breaking PCs worldwide. You can find out more info and local approved dealers on the Asetek website.