Scythe Mugen Max CPU Cooler Review

By Julian Duque

Manufacturer: Scythe Co. LTD
Product Name: Mugen Max CPU Cooler
Model Number: SCMGD-1000
UPC: 894092005247
Price As Tested: $69.99 (Amazon)

Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by Scythe.

If there was a list of the 10 most underrated manufacturers in the DIY PC market industry Scythe would definitely be in it. Scythe’s first release was back in 2002, and since then they have continued to push forward advancements that with time have become standard to the rest of the many cooling companies out there. Last week we reviewed the Scythe Ashura which was undoubtedly impressive, but today’s contestant has promised even more. The Scythe Mugen Max is another massive heatsink that is looking to become the top CPU cooler of 2015.

If there’s a single reason for Scythe’s success, it’s their operating philosophy. Instead of spending money in expensive ad campaigns, Scythe builds upon quality and design by investing in their research and development department unlike many modern manufacturers on the market. In turn, Scythe continues to amaze their small fan base globally by bringing advancements in the field and sustaining the outstanding quality they are most frequently known for.

The Scythe Mugen Max is compatible with most modern desktop motherboards coming from both AMD and Intel with the exception of the AM1 platform, which you will most likely not need this cooler for. Included with the Mugen Max is a 140 mm Scythe GlideStream fan that has been adapted to have 120 mm hole spacing. Unfortunately it only comes with one and a second one of that same model can not be easily purchased inside the US, but we have managed to get one for our noise tests.

Air-Cooling VS Water-Cooling

There are several misconceptions when it comes to the ordeal of choosing a cooler for your processor. It is true that Water-Cooling may yield better cooling results, mostly due to water’s higher thermal conductivity when compared to the ethanol and ammonia mixture found in most heat-pipes based coolers. But that does not mean that air coolers should not be considered as an option for enthusiasts. Unlike water-coolers, air-coolers do not need a pump, and can be “Passively Cooled” for quieter operation. Although pumps have become more silent and reliable, they should still be considered as another moving part inside your system that may be subject to failure, as well as being a source of noise. Another important factor to take into consideration when choosing the right CPU cooler is compatibility, Most heatsinks require certain parameters to be met including the CPU cooler height limit of your case, and motherboard clearance compatibility. In contrast, water-coolers only require a place to mount the radiator inside your case, as most CPU blocks are small enough to not interfere with important components near the CPU socket.

Features & Specifications

Courtesy of Scytheus.com

Model Name:
Mugen MAX CPU Cooler

Model Number:
SCASR-1000

Compatibility:
Intel®:

Socket LGA2011 / 2011-v3 (Square ILM)
Socket T / LGA775
Socket LGA1150
Socket LGA1155
Socket LGA1156
Socket LGA1366

AMD®:

Socket AM2
Socket AM2+
Socket AM3
Socket AM3+
Socket FM1
Socket FM2
Socket FM2+

Dimensions:
145 x 65 x 161 mm / 5.71 x 2.56 x 6.34 inch

Weight:
720 g / 25.40 oz (heatsink only)

Accessories:
Mounting plate x2 (Intel), mounting plate x2 (AMD), mounting bar x1, screws for clips x4, mainboard screws x8, mounting screws x2, back plate spacer (Socket 775) x1, washers x4, wrench x1, fan clips x4, thermal grease, backplate, installation manual

Base Plate Material:
Nickel plated copper

Fan Model Name:
GlideStream 140 PWM (adapted Model)