When it comes to basic CPU coolers, they manage to handle straightforward thermal jobs quite well, but they often fail in the noise reduction and high-efficiency cooling department. That’s exactly why dedicated users and PC builders turn to aftermarket alternatives that cater to their particular needs. The aftermarket sector for top-tier coolers is full of competition, with brands eager to showcase their superior performance offerings.
Meet Endorfy, a name you might recognize as SilentiumPC. This Polish brand has revamped itself, gearing up for a bigger splash in the global scene. Known for creating top-notch cooling solutions, Endorfy emphasizes a balance between high efficiency and pocket-friendly prices. The new branding allows them to venture into high-end markets while maintaining their reputation for strong, reliable coolers.
SilentiumPC rose to prominence in the budget and mid-range PC segments, with standout products such as the Fera 5 cooler, which we reviewed just over two years ago for its outstanding value. Today, we’re diving into a review of Endorfy’s flagship CPU cooler—the Fortis 5 Dual Fan. This is their most significant air cooler offering, priced well above the Fera 5, yet still delivering as a single-tower cooler that aims to balance value, compatibility, and high performance.
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), weighing 760 grams
- Fans: Includes a 140 mm Fluctus FDB Fan and a 120 mm Fluctus FDB Fan with speeds ranging from 250 to 1400 RPM
- RGB: None
- Supported Sockets: Compatible with Intel’s LGA20xx, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD’s AM5 / AM4 sockets
- Warranty: 6 Years
- Price: $49
Packaging & Bundle
The Fortis 5 Dual Fan comes in a simple brown cardboard box decorated with schematics and explanatory text all around. It’s packed with useful details about the cooler, not to mention a couple of snazzy marketing phrases. Inside, you’ll find the cooler safely nestled within additional cardboard and foam to keep it secure during transit.
Opening the box, you’ll discover the necessary mounting hardware and instructions laid out without any superfluous extras. A notable inclusion is a syringe of premium Pactum PT-3 thermal paste, with enough for at least three applications. The mounting fixtures are versatile, supporting various CPU sockets, making the Fortis 5 compatible with multiple processors from both Intel and AMD.
The Fortis 5 Dual Fan CPU Cooler
Crafted as a substantial single-tower design, the Fortis 5 Dual Fan measures 159 mm in height, accommodating a broad spectrum of PC cases from mid-tower to larger ATX cases without the clearance issues that often plague taller coolers. Weighing in at around 800 grams, it strikes an excellent balance between efficient cooling and manageable heft, relieving concerns about motherboard stress or ease of transport.
The heart of the Fortis 5’s impressive cooling efficiency lies in its six solid copper heat pipes. These pipes excel at siphoning heat away from the CPU, distributing it evenly through the cooler’s extensive aluminum fin array. They are meticulously arranged to maximize contact with the fin stack for enhanced thermal dissipation, all while maintaining a compact form. The fins themselves feature serrated edges, reducing air turbulence and noise. A neat plastic cover tops the fin array, primarily enhancing aesthetics. While there’s no RGB lighting—a staple in many of today’s coolers—the design’s cleanliness appeals to fans of a more minimalist style. With an exceptional build quality, you won’t find any flimsy parts or sharp edges here.
A standout feature of the Fortis 5 is its asymmetrical dual-fan layout, utilizing two Endorfy Fluctus PWM fans, one 140 mm and another 120 mm. These fans are specifically engineered for static pressure, which is vital for efficiently pushing air through dense fin assemblies. Operating from 250 to 1400 RPM, the unique serrated blade design of the Fluctus fans works to minimize airflow turbulence and vibration, lowering noise levels.
The base of the Fortis 5 is straightforward, with aluminum constituting most of the body and a steel brace on top for additional mechanical strength, holding the copper heat pipes tightly together. These pipes directly contact the CPU surface. The base’s aluminum section forms a small heatsink that contributes minimally compared to the tower’s performance. Notably, the base is offset to one side of the tower, a deliberate design choice to keep it clear of RAM slots.
In conclusion, the Fortis 5 Dual Fan from Endorfy exemplifies a well-rounded cooler for those seeking an efficient, no-frills design that performs without breaking the bank. With its smart cooling design, admirable build quality, and versatile compatibility, it holds its own in the high-performance air cooling space.
