Silent Cooling Solution: Akasa Maxwell CPU Case Review

Silent Cooling Solution: Akasa Maxwell CPU Case Review

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the Passive CPU Cooling Case
3. Design and Dimensions
4. Front Panel Features
5. Side Panel Radiators
6. Compatibility with Motherboard
7. Power Connections and Antenna Outputs
8. External Power Supply
9. Perforated Upper and Lower Panels
10. Performance testing with Different Processors
11. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

In this article, we will be taking a closer look at a fanless CPU cooling case from Acasa called Maxwell. This case offers passive cooling for processors, making it an interesting option for those looking for silent computing solutions. We will explore its design, dimensions, and various features to assess its potential performance. Additionally, we will conduct performance tests with different processors to evaluate its cooling capabilities. Let's delve into the details of the Maxwell case and see if it lives up to its claims.

Overview of the Passive CPU Cooling Case

The Maxwell case by Acasa is a fanless computer case that aims to provide efficient cooling for processors without the need for noisy fans. The passive cooling design relies on a combination of radiators, heat pipes, and an aluminum heat module. The case is larger and HEAVIER compared to its predecessor, the Aer case, which we reviewed in a previous video. However, the external appearance may seem somewhat outdated with its retro aesthetic.

Design and Dimensions

The Maxwell case has the following dimensions: a width of 28 cm, Height of 11 cm, and depth of 21 cm. Its front panel features a power button, LED indicators for power and hard drive activity, two USB 2.0 ports, and two USB 3.0 ports. The side panels of the case are designed with ribbed structures that act as radiators to dissipate heat. This design differs from the Aer case, where the fins were located on top. The rear panel of the Maxwell case shows compatibility with full-size motherboard I/O shields, providing more options for motherboard selection compared to the Aer case.

Front Panel Features

The front panel of the Maxwell case includes a power button and LED indicators for power and hard drive activity. The presence of two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 ports offers convenient connectivity options. These front panel features provide easy access to essential functions and make the case user-friendly.

Side Panel Radiators

One notable feature of the Maxwell case is the ribbed structure on the side panels, which acts as radiators for CPU cooling. This design allows for improved heat dissipation by maximizing the surface area for heat exchange. The longer fins compared to the ones in the Aer case are expected to enhance heat dissipation further, enabling efficient cooling for the processor.

Compatibility with Motherboard

The Maxwell case is compatible with full-size motherboard I/O shields. This means that the selection of motherboards is not as limited as with the Aer case, allowing for more flexibility in configuring the system. This compatibility ensures that users have a wider range of options when choosing the motherboard that suits their needs.

Power Connections and Antenna Outputs

The rear panel of the Maxwell case features power connections, including two serial ports and Wi-Fi antenna outputs. This enables easy power supply connections and seamless integration of complementary components such as Wi-Fi antennas. Having dedicated antenna outputs enhances the usability of the case for wireless networking setups.

External Power Supply

The Maxwell case comes with an external power supply unit. This design choice allows for better heat dissipation and improved airflow within the case. The perforated upper and lower panels further facilitate the convection of air, ensuring efficient cooling of the processor.

Perforated Upper and Lower Panels

The upper and lower panels of the Maxwell case are perforated, which aids in improving the convection of air for processor cooling. The perforations contribute to better airflow within the case, enabling efficient heat dissipation. This design choice plays a significant role in maintaining optimal temperatures for the processor.

Performance Testing with Different Processors

To assess the cooling capabilities of the Maxwell case, we conducted performance tests with two different processors. The first setup consisted of the AMD Ryzen 4300 CPU, while the Second setup featured the AMD Ryzen 5700G CPU. The manufacturer claims that the Maxwell case can handle processors with power consumption of up to 65 watts. Our testing aimed to verify this claim and evaluate the cooling performance under prolonged usage and heavy loads, such as resource-intensive gaming.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Maxwell case by Acasa offers a viable solution for those seeking passive cooling for their processors. The case's design, dimensions, and various features contribute to its efficient cooling capabilities. The side panel radiators, compatibility with full-size motherboards, and perforated upper and lower panels all work together to provide optimal heat dissipation. Our performance tests with different processors showcased stable temperatures and reliable cooling performance. However, it is important to monitor the temperature of the AMD Ryzen 5700G under heavy loads to prevent potential overheating issues. Overall, the Maxwell case proves to be a suitable option for those in need of a silent and efficient cooling solution for their CPUs.

Highlights:

• Fanless CPU cooling case with passive cooling design
• Ribbed side panel radiators for improved heat dissipation
• Compatibility with full-size motherboard I/O shields
• External power supply unit for better heat dissipation
• Perforated upper and lower panels for enhanced convection of air
• Successful performance tests with different processors

FAQ:

Q: What is the benefit of a fanless CPU cooling case? A: A fanless CPU cooling case provides a silent computing experience by eliminating the noise generated by fans.

Q: Is the Maxwell case compatible with all motherboards? A: The Maxwell case is compatible with full-size motherboard I/O shields, offering a wider range of motherboard options.

Q: Can the Maxwell case handle high-power processors? A: The Maxwell case is designed to handle processors with power consumption of up to 65 watts, as claimed by the manufacturer.

Resources:

• Acasa official website: [insert website URL]
• AMD official website: [insert website URL]