be quiet Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock 6 Pro CPU cooler Review
The be quiet! Dark Rock 6 series has arrived
be quiet’s Dark Rock 6 series has arrived, and they are rock solid
be quiet has just released its new Dark Rock 6 series of CPU coolers, and we’ve had the opportunity to test the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock 6 Pro models. With these new models comes support for new 0dB “quiet” modes, liquid metal thermal grease support, and a variety of design improvements over their last-gen counterparts.
Both the Dark Rock 6 and 6 Pro feature nickel-plated bases, allowing these coolers to support be quiet’s DC2 Pro thermal grease and other liquid metal thermal interface materials (TIMs). This support is not available with all CPU coolers, as liquid metal can damage the bases of unsupported coolers.
Semi-Passive Cooling Support
Both the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock 6 Pro feature a P/Q switch. These are used to enable the “Performance” and “Quiet” modes for be quiet’s included fan/fans. When Q (quiet) mode is enabled, an optional semi-passive mode is enabled. With semi-passive mode, these fans can be stopped completely until 40% PWM fan signals are sent to this cooler’s fans.
Using this mode, PC builders can make their CPU coolers run passively under low loads. This makes be quiet’s Dark Rock 6 coolers completely silent. When fan RPM values exceed 40%, the cooler’s fans will activate. While these coolers are still quiet at these speeds, having a completely silent mode is a nice feature for fans of quieter spaces.
Pricing
In the UK, be quiet’s Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock 6 Pro are available for £64.99 and £79.99 respectively. Both coolers are already available to order at Overclockers UK. At these prices, be quiet’s models are on the affordable side of the high-end CPU air cooler spectrum, with the Noctua NH-D15 G2 costing more than 50% more than the Dark Rock 6 Pro.
With be quiet’s Dark Rock 6 series, users get good-looking CPU coolers at a reasonable price.
