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The Shadow Rock series from be quiet! has always focused on attaining low noise levels over absolute raw thermal performance, this new Shadow Rock 3 CPU cooler retains those same key features we have come to expect from be quiet! CPU coolers. During our noise test, the Shadow Rock 3 recorded just 40.1 dBA noise level while the fan was running at 100% RPM, which is seriously impressive.
The only other CPU cooler we have tested that has managed to top this ultra-low noise level is the Shadow Rock 3’s bigger brother, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4. The Shadow Rock 3 shares other performance similarities to the Dark Rock Pro 4, as both coolers are not the best when it comes to raw thermal performance.
However, taking noise levels into consideration, it is actually quite impressive to think that a CPU cooler priced under £50 can keep the temperature of a high-end CPU, such as the Intel Core i9-9900K installed in our test system, under control while still maintaining such low noise levels even when the CPU is overclocked aggressively and under full load.
Obviously, there are other CPU coolers available that do a much better job if you are looking for raw thermal performance. However, you will be hard-pressed to find one that does as well with thermal performance at these low noise levels and at this competitive price point. This makes the Shadow Rock 3 ideal for systems that are used in quiet environments such as media PCs, office workstations or living room mid-tier gaming systems, which is what we would recommend using the Shadow Rock 3 for.
The Shadow Rock 3 is also an understated and premium looking CPU cooler, this means it will fit in well with almost type of system theme since it features a neutral silver and black colour scheme and no RGB lighting. The lack of RGB lighting may not suit everyone in this day and age, however, usually someone who is considering buying a be quiet! product will probably already realise that RGB is not the company’s style, so will probably be expecting an RGB-free product anyway.
The installation process for the Shadow Rock 3 is also very simple and straightforward, even the most novice PC builder should find it easy to install and the whole process will only take around 5-10 minutes for both intel and AMD platforms. be quiet! even provides the tools needed for installation with the long shank Philips screwdriver that is bundled with the product, something that we think is a nice touch and means you don't need to go hunting around for a screwdriver.
Even though the Shadow Rock 3 isn’t the world’s greatest in terms of thermal performance, as an overall package it is something we quite like, mainly due to the low noise levels and understated appearance. It would be ideal for users who are seeking a low noise upgrade from their stock CPU cooler, or for those looking to build a new system with an emphasis on low noise. For under £50, the Shadow Rock 3 is hard to beat in these kind of situations.
The be quiet! Shadow Rock 3 CPU cooler is currently available to purchase for £49.99 from Overclockers UK HERE.
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Pros
- Exceptionally low noise levels.
- Understated appearance.
- High-quality build.
- Quick installation process.
Cons
- Thermal performance slightly disappointing.
- No RGB lighting.
KitGuru says: Although the thermal performance of the Shadow Rock 3 may look a little disappointing, users looking for an ultra-quiet CPU cooler for a low noise system will find the be quiet! Shadow Rock 3 an attractive proposition and should be happy overall with performance.
