Conclusion
The number of tested SSD coolers is piling up, and the inter-comparison of different models is already quite voluminous. It includes inefficient structures, simpler (but efficient) and more complex designs. The IceCap cooler, which is the subject of this analysis, is among the more reasonable solutions for a few euros. In short, an inexpensive option to consider when thinking about how to reduce SSD temperature.
Conclusion
Don’t be fooled by the average (controller cooling) to below average (memory cooling) placement in the charts. In controller cooling, which is key, it is superior to the more expensive cooler BeQuiet! MC1 and the Akasa Gecko Pro, which has higher weight. With the exception of the Axagon CLR-M2L10 (that’s a cheaper, lighter, but taller cooler), the coolers above the Gelid IceCap are either significantly heavier or more expensive coolers. From a design point of view, therefore, we must praise. Small, low-profile, efficient and cheap cooler.
As with other models, we must also note that while this is an overall better solution than motherboards usually offer, the IceCap may not be a suitable replacement. Not even for conditions where high demands are placed on SSD cooling. And not at all in gaming or multimedia computers, where the cooling performance of even the weakest motherboard solutions is sufficient.
In any case, IceCap is a good option wherever a cooler is missing. This is typically on cheap boards or possibly even where there is one, but the worst results are achieved, such as on some MSI boards. The second slot solution on the Z690 Tomahawk (DDR4) loses by more than 20°C to the IceCap. This is partly due to the fact that the mounting system tends to bend the PCB of the SSD a bit, which worsens the contact. This will not happen with the Gelid IceCap cooler due to the presence of the backplate.
For 9 EUR, Gelid IceCap is a very good, attractive offer. In some shops, however, it appears for significantly higher, up to double the amount, which is no longer worth it. There are already more attractive coolers in this price range, such as the BeQuiet! MC1 Pro, which has the upper hand in all aspects.
English translation and edit by Jozef Dudáš
| Gelid IceCap |
| + High cooling performance. Significantly reduces temperature |
| + Efficient design. High TDP given the lower weight |
| + Attractive price/cooling performance ratio |
| + Robust design (thanks to the backplate, the SSD does not bend) |
| + Excellent compatibility, does not clash with expansion cards |
| + Fast, easy and reliable installation |
| - Lower cooling performance compared to many motherboard solutions |
| - Thinner thermal pads (some SSDs may not achieve optimal contact with the heatsink) |
| Approximate retail price: 9 EUR |
