Benchmarks: Noise
Scan's own 3XS Z77 Performance Q10 has shown us that gaming PCs can be built to run ultra-quiet, so we're intrigued to see how the small-form-factor 3XS Z77 Node Titan compares. To begin with, the compact system is suitably quiet when idle, but it's clear that this machine isn't sound-proofed for near-silent operation and favours performance over low-noise operation.
As an example, the default Corsair Hydro Series H80i cooler automatically polls fans at system boot to determine maximum fan speed - as a consequence the system is insanely loud for a few seconds following boot.
And though the idle reading is good, applying maximum load to the 4.6GHz processor sees noise level increase dramatically. At this point, the 3XS Z77 Node Titan is clearly audible and, if sat on top of a desk, somewhat distracting.
Noise levels are similar when gaming. It's interesting to note that Scan has all motherboard-connected fans set to a standard profile in the BIOS - as opposed to silent - in an effort to strike a balance between noise and performance. Gamers who are accustomed to fan noise may not find fault, but we're strong advocates of quiet computing and we'd be willing to sacrifice maximum CPU clock speed in favour of reduced system noise.
