ALSEYE M90 Air Cooler: Review, Specs, And Performance

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the ALSEYE M90 Air Cooler. If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly cooling solution for your CPU, this might just be the one you've been looking for. We're going to break down everything from its specifications and features to its overall performance and value for money. So, stick around and let's see if the ALSEYE M90 is the right fit for your rig!

Unboxing and First Impressions

Alright, so let's kick things off with the unboxing experience and my initial thoughts. The packaging of the ALSEYE M90 is pretty straightforward. Inside, you'll find the cooler itself, mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD platforms, and a small tube of thermal paste. Nothing too fancy, but it gets the job done. The first thing that struck me was the cooler's design. It sports a clean, minimalist look with its black heatsink and a single 92mm fan. The build quality feels decent for its price range; it doesn't feel flimsy or cheap. The aluminum fins are neatly arranged, and the overall construction seems solid. The 92mm fan comes pre-installed, which is a nice touch, saving you a bit of time during installation. The fan features a black frame and translucent blades, which could look pretty cool with some RGB lighting if you're into that sort of thing (though this particular model doesn't include any). The size of the cooler is also worth noting; it's relatively compact, making it a good option for smaller cases or builds where space is a concern. Overall, my initial impression is positive. It looks like a well-designed cooler that offers a good balance of aesthetics and functionality, especially considering its budget-friendly price tag. Now, let's move on to the specifications and see what this cooler is packing under the hood.

Key Specifications and Features

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty details of the ALSEYE M90. Understanding the specifications and features is crucial to determine if this cooler meets your needs. First off, the ALSEYE M90 supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155/1156 and AMD AM5/AM4. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for various builds, whether you're rocking the latest Intel or AMD processors. The cooler features a tower-style design with an aluminum heatsink and copper heat pipes. Specifically, it has three direct-contact copper heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU. This direct-contact design ensures optimal thermal conductivity, which is essential for effective cooling. The 92mm fan is designed to provide a good balance of airflow and noise levels. It operates at a speed range of 800 to 2300 RPM (Rotations Per Minute), delivering an airflow of up to 48 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). The fan also features a hydraulic bearing, which helps reduce noise and prolong the fan's lifespan. In terms of dimensions, the ALSEYE M90 measures approximately 93 x 78 x 135mm, making it a relatively compact cooler that can fit into most PC cases without clearance issues. It weighs around 420g, which is lightweight enough to not put excessive stress on your motherboard. Other notable features include its easy installation process, thanks to the included mounting brackets and hardware. The cooler also comes with a tube of thermal paste, so you don't have to purchase it separately. Overall, the ALSEYE M90 offers a solid set of specifications and features for its price point. It's designed to provide efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels, making it a great option for budget-conscious builders.

Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's walk through the installation process of the ALSEYE M90. Don't worry, it's pretty straightforward, even if you're new to building PCs. First things first, make sure you have all the necessary components at hand: the ALSEYE M90 cooler, the appropriate mounting brackets for your CPU socket (Intel or AMD), screws, backplate (if required), and the included thermal paste. Before you start, it's always a good idea to consult the user manual for specific instructions tailored to your motherboard. Begin by preparing your motherboard. If you're using an Intel platform, you'll need to install the backplate onto the back of the motherboard, aligning the holes with the CPU socket. For AMD platforms, you can usually use the stock backplate that comes with the motherboard. Next, attach the mounting brackets to the motherboard. These brackets will provide the base for securing the cooler. The exact process may vary slightly depending on your motherboard model, so refer to the manual for guidance. Once the mounting brackets are in place, apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of your CPU. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient. Ensure that the thermal paste is evenly distributed to maximize heat transfer between the CPU and the cooler. Now, carefully position the ALSEYE M90 cooler onto the CPU, aligning it with the mounting brackets. Gently press down on the cooler and secure it using the screws provided. Tighten the screws in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Make sure the cooler is firmly attached to the motherboard, but don't overtighten the screws, as this could damage the components. Finally, connect the fan cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This will provide power to the fan and allow it to spin. Double-check all connections to ensure everything is properly installed. Once you've completed these steps, you're all set! Power on your PC and monitor the CPU temperature to ensure the cooler is working effectively. Overall, the installation process of the ALSEYE M90 is relatively simple and should take no more than 15-20 minutes, even for beginners. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll have your CPU running cool in no time.

Performance Testing: Thermals and Noise Levels

Okay, time to put the ALSEYE M90 to the test and see how it performs in terms of thermals and noise levels. I ran a series of tests to evaluate its cooling capabilities under different workloads. First, I tested the idle temperature of the CPU. With the ALSEYE M90 installed, the CPU idled at around 35-40°C. This is a pretty good result, indicating that the cooler is effectively dissipating heat even when the CPU is not under heavy load. Next, I ran a stress test using a CPU-intensive benchmark to simulate a demanding workload. During the stress test, the CPU temperature peaked at around 75-80°C. While this is higher than the idle temperature, it's still within acceptable limits and well below the CPU's thermal throttling threshold. This shows that the ALSEYE M90 is capable of keeping the CPU cool even under sustained heavy loads. In terms of noise levels, the ALSEYE M90 performed admirably. The 92mm fan operates quietly, even at its maximum speed. I measured the noise level at around 30-35 dBA (decibels) during normal operation, which is barely audible. Even during the stress test, the fan noise remained relatively low, not becoming distracting or annoying. Overall, the ALSEYE M90 delivers solid performance in terms of both thermals and noise levels. It keeps the CPU running cool under various workloads while maintaining a quiet operating environment. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize both performance and acoustics. Of course, individual results may vary depending on your specific CPU, ambient temperature, and case airflow. However, based on my testing, the ALSEYE M90 provides a reliable and efficient cooling solution for its price range.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let's break down the ALSEYE M90 with a good ol' pros and cons list to give you a clear picture of what you're getting.

Pros:

  • Affordable Price: One of the biggest advantages of the ALSEYE M90 is its budget-friendly price tag. It offers excellent value for money, making it a great option for budget-conscious builders.
  • Good Cooling Performance: Despite its low price, the ALSEYE M90 delivers solid cooling performance, keeping the CPU running cool under various workloads.
  • Low Noise Levels: The 92mm fan operates quietly, even at its maximum speed, providing a comfortable and distraction-free computing experience.
  • Wide Compatibility: The ALSEYE M90 supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155/1156 and AMD AM5/AM4, making it a versatile option for different builds.
  • Easy Installation: The cooler is easy to install, thanks to the included mounting brackets and hardware. Even beginners can set it up without much hassle.
  • Compact Design: The ALSEYE M90 features a compact design that fits into most PC cases without clearance issues.

Cons:

  • No RGB Lighting: If you're into fancy RGB lighting, you might be disappointed to know that the ALSEYE M90 doesn't include any. However, this is a minor issue for those who prioritize performance over aesthetics.
  • Basic Design: The cooler sports a simple, minimalist design, which may not appeal to everyone. Some users might prefer a more stylish or eye-catching cooler.
  • Limited Overclocking Potential: While the ALSEYE M90 provides adequate cooling for stock CPU speeds, it may not be the best choice for heavy overclocking. If you plan to push your CPU to its limits, you might want to consider a more robust cooling solution.

Overall, the ALSEYE M90 offers a compelling package for its price. It provides good cooling performance, low noise levels, and wide compatibility, making it a great option for budget-conscious builders. However, if you're looking for RGB lighting or have ambitious overclocking plans, you might want to explore other options.

Final Verdict: Is the ALSEYE M90 Worth It?

So, after taking a comprehensive look at the ALSEYE M90, the big question remains: Is it worth buying? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes, especially if you're on a tight budget. The ALSEYE M90 offers an excellent balance of performance, features, and price. It provides solid cooling performance, keeping your CPU running cool under various workloads without generating excessive noise. The wide compatibility ensures that it will work with most modern Intel and AMD platforms, making it a versatile option for different builds. The easy installation process makes it accessible even for beginners, and the compact design ensures that it will fit into most PC cases without any issues. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive coolers, such as RGB lighting or advanced features, the ALSEYE M90 more than makes up for it with its affordability and reliability. It's a no-nonsense cooler that gets the job done without breaking the bank. Of course, if you're a hardcore overclocker or demand the absolute best cooling performance, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end cooler. However, for the vast majority of users who are looking for a reliable and efficient cooling solution for their CPU, the ALSEYE M90 is an excellent choice. It's a great value for money and will keep your CPU running cool and quiet for years to come. So, if you're in the market for a budget-friendly CPU cooler, be sure to give the ALSEYE M90 a serious look. You won't be disappointed!