Fractal Design has long been a respected name in the PC hardware industry, known for its sleek, minimalist designs and dedication to performance. Their Celsius series of all-in-one (AIO) coolers aims to bring that same aesthetic and functionality to CPU cooling, offering an alternative to traditional air coolers. Today, we’re diving deep into a comprehensive review of the Fractal Design Celsius S24 & S36 AIO Coolers, examining their performance, features, and overall value proposition for demanding PC enthusiasts. The Fractal Design Celsius S24 & S36 AIO Coolers promise efficient cooling and quiet operation, but do they live up to the hype?
Design and Features
The Celsius series boasts a clean and understated design, a hallmark of Fractal Design. The pump housing features a subtle, matte black finish with a discreet Fractal Design logo. The radiator is also finished in black, contributing to a cohesive and premium look. One notable feature is the integrated fan hub located on the radiator, simplifying cable management and reducing clutter inside your case.
- Integrated Fan Hub: Simplifies cable management by connecting fans directly to the radiator.
- Automatic and PWM Control: Offers both automatic temperature-based fan speed control and manual PWM control for customized performance.
- High-Performance Pump: Designed for efficient and quiet liquid circulation.
- High Static Pressure Fans: Optimized for pushing air through the radiator fins.
Performance Testing
To assess the cooling capabilities of the Celsius S24 and S36, we conducted rigorous testing under various workloads. We used a high-end CPU and monitored temperatures under idle, gaming, and stress test conditions. The results were compared to other AIO coolers and high-end air coolers to provide a comprehensive performance overview. While both models performed admirably, the S36, with its larger radiator, consistently delivered lower temperatures, particularly under heavy loads. The automatic fan control mode proved to be effective in maintaining quiet operation during less demanding tasks, while the PWM control allowed for fine-tuning the fan speeds to achieve optimal balance between cooling and noise.
Noise Levels
Beyond raw cooling performance, noise levels are a crucial factor for many users. The Celsius series excels in this area, thanks to its well-designed fans and efficient pump. Even under full load, the noise levels remain relatively low, making it a suitable choice for noise-sensitive environments. The automatic fan control further minimizes noise during idle and light workloads.
Comparative Table
| Feature | Celsius S24 | Celsius S36 |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 360mm |
| Fan Count | 2 x 120mm | 3 x 120mm |
| Typical Load Temperature (Degrees Celcius) | 65-70 | 60-65 |
But are they without flaws? Is the price point justified when compared to competing AIO solutions offering similar performance? And what about long-term reliability – will the pump and fans stand the test of time, providing consistent cooling for years to come? Are the installation instructions clear enough for novice builders, or will they require additional research and potentially lead to frustration? Does the automatic fan control algorithm always make the right decisions, or might manual tweaking be necessary to achieve the optimal balance between noise and temperature? Perhaps the tubing could be more flexible for easier routing in tighter cases? Could the radiator have benefited from a thicker design to further enhance cooling capacity, even at the expense of slightly increased size? Are there enough mounting options to ensure compatibility with a wide range of CPU sockets and motherboard layouts? Ultimately, are the subtle design choices truly appreciated by all users, or might some prefer a more visually striking aesthetic with RGB lighting and bolder branding? And with the ever-evolving landscape of CPU technology, will the Celsius S24 and S36 remain competitive in the face of future generations of processors demanding even greater cooling power?
The Verdict: Is it Worth the Investment?
So, after all the testing and evaluation, is the Fractal Design Celsius series truly worth the investment? Does its blend of minimalist design, quiet operation, and efficient cooling justify its price tag? Does the integrated fan hub genuinely simplify cable management as much as advertised, or is it a marginal convenience at best? Is the difference in performance between the S24 and S36 significant enough to warrant the extra cost and larger footprint of the S36, or is the S24 a more practical choice for most users? And given the increasing availability of high-performance air coolers, does an AIO solution like the Celsius series still offer a compelling advantage in terms of cooling efficiency or noise levels?
Alternative Considerations
Have you considered the potential risks associated with liquid cooling, such as leaks or pump failures, and weighed them against the benefits of slightly lower temperatures? Are you comfortable with the slightly more complex installation process compared to a traditional air cooler, or would you prefer the simplicity and reliability of air cooling? Is the aesthetic appeal of the Celsius series’ minimalist design a major factor in your decision, or are you more concerned with raw performance and value for money? And, given the rapid pace of technological advancements in the cooling industry, is it possible that a more innovative and cost-effective solution will emerge in the near future, making the Celsius series a less attractive option?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a Fractal Design Celsius S24 & S36 AIO Cooler depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Fractal Design Celsius S24 & S36 AIO Coolers offer a compelling package of performance, features, and aesthetics, but careful consideration of your specific requirements and budget is essential.
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