be quiet! Dark Rock Slim

be quiet! Dark Rock Slim Review & Specifications

The be quiet! Dark Rock Slim by be quiet! is a Air CPU cooler designed for compatibility with 1700 , 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 2066, 2011, AM4, AM5 sockets.

This air cooler features a heatsink with a CPU contact base made of Copper, which is typically nickel-plated to prevent oxidation and ensure long-term durability while maintaining the superior thermal conductivity of the underlying copper. While some coolers use a solid nickel-plated copper base for maximum surface area and durability, others, usally lower to midrange coolers, utilize direct-touch heatpipes to transfer heat immediately from the CPU into the cooling system. It includes 1 fan(s), each sized at 120 mm. These fan(s) can reach up to 1500.0 RPM and operate at a noise level of 23.6 dBA, delivering a combined airflow of 50.5 CFM. The total height of the cooler is 159 mm . Please ensure your PC case supports this cooler’s height. You can verify compatibility using our PC Builder, which filters compatible cases based on CPU cooler dimensions. This cooler does not include RGB lighting, focusing instead on performance, reliability, and low acoustic output. The cooler is backed by a 3-year warranty, providing long-term reliability and manufacturer support.

Performance

be quiet! Dark Rock Slim is a mid-range performance air CPU cooler designed for CPUs with TDPs up to 150 W, reaching a relative cooling performance score of 62.50%. Ideal for entry-level to mid-range gaming systems and lower-power workstation builds, it offers excellent reliability thanks to its simple construction. Compared to liquid cooling systems, air coolers in this class are strongly recommended due to the absence of pumps, fluid, or risk of leaks. At this TDP level, air coolers generally outperform similarly priced liquid coolers in both reliability and long-term value.

Cost-Effectiveness

In terms of performance per dollar, the be quiet! Dark Rock Slim offers exceptional value for an air cooler, achieving 69.6% efficiency relative to the best-performing CPU cooler in the performance-per-price category. It stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious users seeking strong thermal performance.