CONCLUSION

   When we received the Archon IB-E X2 i was hoping to open the box and see something larger that could easily surpass the cooling efficiency of the already excellent Archon SB-E X2 model but as you all know that didn't happen and after wrapping up all our tests i can say that it's really a good thing that i was wrong. You see gaining a few degrees in the performance section is never a bad thing but it's even better to get the performance of a larger sized cooler but in a smaller model and since the IB-E X2 is shorter (ok just 5mm but that's something i guess) compared to the SB-E X2 and performs roughly the same that's a win win scenario for consumers since the majority of PC Cases can easily accommodate CPU coolers up to 167mm tall. Noise levels are virtually the same as with the SB-E X2 model as expected since both models use the same TY-141 140mm PWM fans so nothing really new here.

   The Archon IB-E X2 CPU cooler by Thermalright just got released in the market so it's not really available anywhere yet. However if you happen to be inside the EU we should have a price tomorrow right in time for our giveaway with Thermalright. Overall the new Archon IB-E X2 CPU cooler may still not compete with some highest end dual heatsink models but since it's just a shorter version of the Archon SB-E X2 model with slightly better performance and roughly the same noise levels we can only say the best about it. Price may not yet be known but unless something really strange happens we expect it to retail for around the same price as the SB-E X2 model so for some people yes it will seem somewhat expensive. However everything else more than just makes up for that so the Archon IB-E X2 CPU cooler gets our Platinum Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Near-Excellent Performance
- Size (No Clearance Issues)
- Height (5mm Shorter Compared To The SB-E X2 Model)
- Two 140mm PWM Bundled Fans
- Relatively Low Noise Levels
- Universal Compatibility

CONS

- Price (For Some)