When it comes to CPU coolers, the standard options are usually just fine for handling everyday thermal requirements. However, they often fall short in terms of noise control and high-efficiency cooling. That’s why many enthusiasts and system builders lean towards aftermarket coolers that cater to more specific needs. The high-end aftermarket cooler market is a bustling scene, with manufacturers competing fiercely to deliver top-notch performance.
Endorfy, formerly recognized as SilentiumPC, is a company from Poland that has reinvented itself to make a splash in the global arena. Known for producing cooling solutions that expertly juggle efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Endorfy is now setting its sights on more premium market segments. The rebranding aims to uphold the company’s tradition of quality while reaching for newer heights in performance.
SilentiumPC built a solid reputation in the value and mainstream sections of the PC market, largely thanks to its standout product, the Fera 5 cooler, which we reviewed slightly over two years back—it offered outstanding value for money. In our current review, we’re putting Endorfy’s Fortis 5 Dual Fan CPU cooler to the test. As their biggest CPU air cooler yet, the Fortis 5 significantly ups the ante from the Fera 5 in terms of price. Yet, it’s still a single-tower cooler designed to deliver a sweet spot between cost, compatibility, and functionality.
Let’s dive into the specifics of the Endorfy Fortis 5 Dual Fan CPU Cooler:
Specifications
- Type: Air Cooler (Single Tower)
- Dimensions: 159 x 144 x 131 mm (H x W x D); weighs 760 grams
- Fans: Includes a 140 mm and a 120 mm Fluctus FDB Fan with speeds ranging from 250 to 1400 RPM
- RGB: None
- Supported Sockets: Supports a variety of sockets including Intel (LGA20xx, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x) and AMD (AM5 / AM4)
- Warranty: 6 Years
- Price: $49
Packaging & Bundle
Upon receiving the Fortis 5 Dual Fan, it arrives in a cardboard box featuring schematics and plenty of descriptive text. The box is packed with details about the cooler, alongside some marketing buzzwords. Inside, the cooler is well-secured with additional cardboard and foam, ensuring everything arrives intact.
Opening the box, you’ll find all the necessary mounting hardware, along with a straightforward set of instructions—nothing extraneous included. Notably, there’s a syringe of high-quality Pactum PT-3 thermal paste, enough for at least three applications. The mounting gear is versatile enough to fit a wide variety of CPU sockets, making the cooler compatible with numerous Intel and AMD processors.
The Fortis 5 Dual Fan CPU Cooler
This cooler is built around a single-tower design, reaching 159 mm in height. Its size is a friendly match for a variety of PC cases, from mid-towers to larger ATX formats, avoiding those pesky clearance woes typical of taller models. With a weight of about 800 grams, it strikes a nice balance—offering effective cooling without putting too much stress on the motherboard, which is perfect for those frequently on the move with their systems.
The Fortis 5’s cooling prowess is thanks to its six robust copper heat pipes, crafted to efficiently pull heat away from the CPU, spreading it across a generously sized aluminum fin array. These pipes are strategically aligned to maximize contact with the fins, enhancing heat dissipation while maintaining a compact design. Serrated fins aid airflow, reducing noise and turbulence. A sleek plastic cover atop the fins adds a touch of style without RGB lighting, appealing to those who prefer a simple, elegant look. In terms of build quality, the Fortis 5 is top-notch, with no flimsy parts or sharp edges to be found.
A standout feature of the Fortis 5 is its asymmetric dual-fan setup, utilizing two Endorfy Fluctus PWM fans—a 140 mm and a 120 mm size. These fans excel at static pressure, crucial for moving air through dense fin arrays. Operating between 250 to 1400 RPM, their serrated blade design is engineered to cut down turbulence and vibrations, promising quieter performance.
The base of the Fortis 5 is straightforward, comprising mostly aluminum with a steel brace at the top, holding the copper heatpipes securely in place. These pipes make direct contact with the CPU for optimal heat transfer. At the base, small fins form a mini heat sink, although much of the cooling is handled by the tower itself. Notably, the base is off-center, a feature intended to avoid RAM slot interference.
Overall, the Fortis 5 Dual Fan CPU Cooler from Endorfy presents a solid choice for those looking to upgrade from standard cooling solutions, blending practicality and performance in a gamer-friendly package.
