Zalman Expands CNPS CPU Cooler Lineup with New Dual-Tower Models
Zalman, a well-established name in PC cooling solutions, has quietly expanded its renowned CNPS CPU cooler series with four new dual-tower air coolers: the CNPS15X BP and CNPS12X BP, each offered in both standard and ARGB variants. These new additions build on over a decade of innovation in thermal management, targeting enthusiasts and PC builders seeking high-performance air cooling for modern CPUs.
CNPS15X BP: High-Performance Cooling with ARGB Option
The CNPS15X BP stands out as the larger of the two new models, measuring 126 x 135 x 159 mm and weighing 1,170 grams. It features six reverse direct-touch heat pipes with a durable black coating, paired with a 104-fin aluminum radiator that offers a substantial 9,997 cm² heat dissipation area. This design enables the cooler to handle thermal loads up to 285 W TDP, making it suitable for high-end processors.
Cooling is managed by dual 120 mm ZM-XF120 fans, available in both standard and ARGB versions. These fans operate between 600 and 2,000 RPM, delivering airflow up to 71.14 CFM while maintaining noise levels at a maximum of 32.9 dB(A). The cooler provides 44 mm of RAM clearance for standard modules, and up to 52 mm for memory with the cut-out fin design, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of system configurations.
CNPS12X BP: Compact Dual-Tower Cooler with Impressive Airflow
The CNPS12X BP is a more compact solution, measuring 120 x 120 x 153 mm and weighing 750 grams. It utilizes six nickel-plated copper heat pipes with a direct-touch design, supporting CPUs with up to 260 W TDP. Despite its smaller size, the CNPS12X BP is equipped with two 120 mm fans that spin between 800 and 1,800 RPM, achieving a maximum airflow of 74.62 CFM at a quieter 32.2 dB(A). This makes it an attractive option for users seeking efficient cooling in mid-sized builds.
Shared Features and Compatibility
Both the CNPS15X BP and CNPS12X BP coolers are engineered with anti-vibration rubber dampers to minimize noise and an anti-bending system that reinforces the dual-tower structure with a high-strength bridge. Zalman ensures broad compatibility with the latest platforms, supporting Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X sockets, as well as AMD AM5 and AM4 sockets. Each cooler comes with a sachet of Zalman’s premium thermal compound—ZM-STC11 for the CNPS15X and ZM-STC8 for the CNPS12X—to ensure optimal heat transfer during installation.
While Zalman has not yet announced pricing or specific availability dates for these new CPU coolers, the CNPS15X BP and CNPS12X BP series are poised to offer robust air cooling solutions for a wide range of PC builds, from high-performance desktops to compact systems.
