Fractal Design Celsius S24 and S36 AIO Cooler Review

Fractal Design‚ a name synonymous with quality and understated elegance in PC components‚ has ventured into the realm of all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers with the Celsius S24 and S36. These coolers promise efficient cooling performance‚ coupled with the minimalist aesthetic Fractal Design is known for. This in-depth review will explore both models‚ examining their features‚ performance‚ and overall value proposition. We’ll delve into the details to determine whether these coolers justify their price point and live up to the company’s reputation.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The packaging for both the Celsius S24 and S36 is consistent with Fractal Design’s minimalist approach. Clean lines and a focus on essential information define the box design. Inside‚ the coolers are securely packaged‚ with all necessary components included; The included installation guide is clear and easy to follow‚ a significant plus for users of all experience levels. Both units feel robust and well-constructed‚ hinting at their premium quality.

The S24‚ with its 240mm radiator‚ is compact and easily fits within most modern PC cases. The S36‚ boasting a larger 360mm radiator‚ offers even greater cooling potential but requires more space. The pumps are quiet during idle‚ promising near-silent operation during less demanding tasks. The fans‚ however‚ are noticeable under heavy loads‚ but the noise remains within acceptable limits for most users. The overall build quality exceeded expectations‚ exceeding many competitors in their price range.

Performance Testing Methodology

To accurately assess the cooling performance of the Fractal Design Celsius S24 and S36‚ we subjected them to a rigorous testing regimen. We utilized a high-end Intel Core i9-13900K processor overclocked to 5.5 GHz‚ paired with a high-performance Z790 motherboard. This setup generates significant heat‚ providing a challenging environment to test the coolers’ capabilities. The ambient temperature was maintained at a consistent 25°C throughout the testing process. We monitored CPU temperatures using various monitoring tools‚ recording peak temperatures under both idle and load conditions‚ including stress tests using Prime95 and Cinebench R23. Data was collected over a period of several hours for each cooler.

Celsius S24 Performance Analysis

The Celsius S24 consistently kept the CPU temperatures well within safe operating ranges even under heavy load. While not the absolute best performing 240mm AIO on the market‚ the S24 offers a strong balance of performance and quiet operation. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller form-factor builds where space is at a premium. While it exhibited some minor noise increase under extreme stress‚ it remains impressively quiet for everyday usage.

The ease of installation was remarkable. The mounting system was intuitive and secure‚ making installation a breeze‚ even for less experienced builders. The included thermal paste was of good quality‚ contributing to the excellent thermal transfer. The S24’s performance is consistently good‚ never reaching alarming temperatures even with extended periods of heavy workloads. The performance easily justifies its position in the mid-range AIO market.

Celsius S36 Performance Analysis

The larger 360mm radiator of the Celsius S36 resulted in significantly lower CPU temperatures compared to the S24. Under the same strenuous testing conditions‚ the S36 demonstrated superior cooling capabilities‚ maintaining lower temperatures even during prolonged periods of intense workload. This translates to better stability and overall system performance‚ particularly for overclocked processors.

While the S36 is larger and requires more case space‚ the improved cooling performance is worth the trade-off for many users. The additional fan surface area allows for more efficient heat dissipation‚ leading to quieter operation even under heavy load. It’s a top contender for high-end builds demanding exceptional cooling performance and robust stability.

Features Comparison: S24 vs. S36

Shared Features:

• High-quality pump and fans
• Easy installation process
• Minimalist aesthetic
• Durable construction
• Effective thermal paste application

Differentiating Features:

• Radiator Size: S24 (240mm) vs. S36 (360mm)
• Cooling Capacity: S36 offers significantly better cooling capacity
• Case Compatibility: S24 is better suited for smaller cases.
• Price Point: S36 commands a higher price due to its larger size and increased cooling potential.

Value and Recommendation

Both the Fractal Design Celsius S24 and S36 offer excellent value for their respective price points. The S24 is an ideal choice for users seeking a compact‚ high-performing cooler for smaller builds. Its performance is remarkable considering its size‚ making it a strong contender in its class. It strikes a fine balance between cooling capacity‚ noise levels‚ and affordability.

The S36‚ while more expensive‚ justifies its price tag with its superior cooling performance. If you’re building a high-end system with an overclocked CPU or demanding components‚ the increased cooling capacity of the S36 is a worthwhile investment. Its performance is exceptionally good and the quality is undeniable. It’s a premium option that delivers on its promises.

Ultimately‚ the best cooler for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If space is a constraint‚ the S24 is a great option. If you need top-tier cooling performance‚ the S36 is the clear winner. Both coolers represent excellent examples of Fractal Design’s commitment to quality and performance.

Both the Celsius S24 and S36 offer a compelling blend of performance‚ aesthetics‚ and build quality. They represent a strong entry into the AIO cooler market by Fractal Design‚ successfully delivering on the brand’s reputation for excellence. For users prioritizing a balanced approach to cooling and quiet operation‚ these coolers are highly recommended. The ease of installation further enhances their appeal. Their minimalist design blends seamlessly into any PC build‚ making them a visually pleasing addition to any system. The performance justifies the cost‚ resulting in a well-rounded product.