Solid advancement: now technological progress incorporates screens on solid-state cooling systems. One can only speculate about what would be the next device to receive a display upgrade.
In an insightful article published on PC Gamer, author Jacob Fox delves into the world of SSD coolers, specifically focusing on the Thermalright HR-10 2280 Pro Digital. A renowned hardware geek with a PhD in Philosophy and a background in Hardware Writing, Fox has worked for PCGamer full-time and as a freelancer for sites such as TechRadar, Pocket-lint, and PC Gamer.
The Thermalright HR-10 2280 Pro Digital is an M.2 SSD cooler that stands out from the crowd due to its built-in screen. This screen displays the SSD's current speed, temperature, or utilization, offering real-time monitoring of the SSD's health and thermal status.
While this unique feature provides several benefits, it also comes with some drawbacks. The built-in screen and associated electronics raise the price over basic heatsinks or passive coolers, making it a more expensive option. Additionally, the screen and its connection could introduce reliability issues, such as malfunctions or incompatibility with some SSDs or motherboards.
Despite these drawbacks, the Thermalright HR-10 2280 Pro Digital offers several advantages. The active cooling enhancement provided by the fan ensures better heat dissipation for high-performance NVMe SSDs, potentially preventing thermal throttling and sustaining maximum performance. The display adds a visually attractive element to a PC build, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate both form and function. Furthermore, the compact solution simplifies installation and reduces cable clutter compared to having separate cooling and display solutions.
However, it's worth noting that passive cooling designs like the TerraMaster D1 enclosure keep SSDs quiet and cool effectively with no fans. While specialized active coolers with screens are less commonly reviewed extensively, the Thermalright HR-10 2280 Pro Digital offers useful real-time thermal monitoring and enhanced cooling, ideal for high-performance SSDs that run hot.
In the article, Fox also highlights the WD_Black SN7100 as the best overall SSD. Despite his expertise in the field, Fox has had his share of misfortunes, such as being ripped off by a local PC repair store, leading him to vow never to let another soul build his rig again.
Unfortunately, the Thermalright HR-10 2280 Pro Digital is not currently retailing in the West. Nevertheless, Fox's article provides a valuable insight into the world of SSD coolers, offering a comprehensive look at the benefits and drawbacks of this unique product.
