CONCLUSION
Whenever I test a top-down CPU cooler it’s very important for me to remember that their target audience is very specific and revolves around users who usually own very small PC cases. So, with that in mind even though the Dark Rock TF 2 didn’t surpass most of its larger tower (U-type) brothers it did very well for what it was meant to while at the same time producing very acceptable noise levels. Unfortunately, the Dark Rock TF 2 is amongst the largest top-down models in the market today which means that it may not fit inside some ITX cases (not easily) which means that you should really check for compatibility prior to getting it.
The be quiet! Dark Rock TF 2 CPU cooler was officially launched 2 days ago and even though availability is still not great you can find it for USD85.90 inside the USA (Newegg.com) and for around 85Euros inside the EU. Cost is probably the sole problem of the Dark Rock TF 2 as it was for the original TF model. On the other hand, however its target audience is very specific (not like you can squeeze the Dark Rock Pro 4 in a small ITX case) and that kind of ensures that this is probably the best CPU cooler of its class which is why it deserves the Golden Award.
PROS
- Excellent Build Quality
- Very Good Performance
- Dual Fan Solution
- Noise Levels
- Low Profile Cooler (134mm)
- Black Coating (For Some)
CONS
- Current Availability
- Price (For Some)