Conclusion
We’ve come to the end of this test of Corsair’s A115. Are we dealing with a successful product? Let’s take a closer look!
Pay attention to dimensions!
When it comes to double-tower fans, there’s one thing you have to take into account: dimensions. The A115 is no exception to the rule, and at 164 mm it’s quite tall. So be careful, it won’t fit into every case.
However, it’s also a deep fridge, and will cover all your memory slots. Fortunately, the rail system for mounting the fans will allow rapid adjustment of their height… making it even more cumbersome in height. So, pay attention to the height of your memory modules.
Otherwise, the accessory part remains fairly classic, and Corsair won’t be supplying anything more than what’s needed for mounting. While a splitter for the fans is welcome, we regret the absence of a syringe of thermal paste… Or a screwdriver, supplied by all our competitors.
Ditto, the other aspect in which we were somewhat disappointed was the lack of a small upper part to mask the heat pipe end. As it is, these are visible, as are the tops of the fan mounting rails. A magnetic cover like on the A500 would have been perfect.
Assembly: Noctua-style -> simple!
As far as assembly is concerned, frankly, we didn’t encounter any particular problems, since the assembly kit is simple to use and set up. You’ll need to handle a backplate, four spacers, two mounting arms and four nuts. In just two minutes, the heatsink is mounted on its processor, nothing too complicated.
Great temperatures!
When it comes to performance, it’s clearly no match for the competition, as it rivals the biggest fans in the sector. Indeed, as we’ve seen, it easily rivals the biggest models currently on the market, even rivaling DeepCool’s Assassin IV.
As for noise levels, while they may seem high at full power, we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that this is a heatsink equipped with two 140 mm fans. Admittedly, at full speed it is audible, but less so than some 140 mm models equipped with a single fan.
As we’ve seen from its temperature-to-noise ratio, it’s not particularly affected by noise pollution.
Premium price:
The official price for the European market is €114.90. While this may seem high, it should be noted that, unfortunately, we’re in line with the prices of today’s biggest aircooling fans. Currently, an Assassin IV can be found for €110, compared with €108 for the MA824 Stealth or €120 for a Dark Rock Elite. Finally, given the temperatures obtained, the price seems right. However, if we add the “extras” such as the finish or the accessories… We’re still behind the competition.
Corsair A115:
We like:
- Sober, all-purpose visual appeal
- Simple assembly
- Ventilation mounted on rails for easy height adjustment
- Solid performance
- Rather controlled noise levels for a 140 mm double-tower heatsink
- Performance/price ratio equivalent to other large double-tower heatsinks on the market
What we didn’t like :
- The finish deserves more attention, especially on the top
- This model takes up a lot of space >160 mm high
- The fact that it covers all the memory slots, so the fan needs to be raised beforehand
- Lacks extra thermal paste
- And perhaps a screwdriver (supplied by competitors)
All in all, Corsair’s heatsink offers solid performance, with a performance-to-noise ratio that rivals that of its most direct competitors. However, at €115 for the heatsink, it’s a shame to have a finish that leaves the heat pipes open to the air, or an accessory part that lacks a thermal paste syringe. Similarly, we would have appreciated a screwdriver (supplied by competitors). Last but not least, it remains imposing, but fan height adjustment is simplified. For us, it’s the silver award.
Many thanks to Corsair!
