Maze Showdown
Review by Konrad
June 6, 2002
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Testing
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Setup: Epox 8K3A+ AMD Athlon XP 1800+ Submerged Ehiem 1250 pump in 1 gallon reserve. DangerDen SuperCube radiator 175cfm Grainger Blower 1/2" inner diameter silicon tubing Socket A Maze 2 1/2" Socket A Maze 3 1/2" |
All tests where done in 26˚ C ambient temperature. Load temperatures where done with Prime 95. Arctic Silver was used as thermal compound.
Maze 2 idle [36˚ C] load [40˚ C] Maze 3 idle [33˚ C] load [36˚ C]
∆(Delta) Idle 3˚ C
∆(Delta) Load 4˚ C
Conclusion
The Maze 3 dethrones the Maze 2 even with a Lucite top which theoretically would further decreased performance. Extra copper on top would help the spreading of heat from the CPU and would provide a greater surface area to transfer it to the water. Either way the Maze 3 exhibits superior performance and shows off a new, more attractive look. With both water blocks currently priced at $42 U.S. the Maze 3 is a must for any one looking to purchase a new water-cooling system. It is also a great upgrade for those looking to squeeze a few extra MHz out of their pc. But if you are using your water-cooling just to get away from those noisy delta fans the 3-4˚ difference does not merit an upgrade. I could not find anything wrong with this water block, everything fit perfectly and installed flawlessly. The Maze 3 gets an Editor's Choice for its superb cooling ability!
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10/10 Beers
Approximate Price:
$45- Maze3
Introduction