The fifth Ninja: better compatibility, lower noise
The Ninja cooler series is very unique. It has been twelve years since the introduction of the first model. Even after such a long time, the Japanese company constantly enhances its original design and increases its efficiency. After four successful generations, they are releasing the fifth Ninja. Modestly, without fanfare and any drama, the way they always do. All the more appealing surprise.
This time, the difference in the design is nothing significant at first sight, and that’s actually a good thing because Ninja 4 (unlike the third model) had really efficient and extraordinary one.
The heatsink has a square area of ribs again and is divided into four segments separated by a centred notch that is a bit more notable than the one of the predecessor, which should provide a better airflow between the ribs. The heat dissipation method has not changed, and the heatpipes go through the heatsink exactly the same way as before. In our opinion, there is not much to improve on them anyway. Considering the area of the ribs, six pipes are distributed evenly and efficiently (the distance from the edges of the ribs, and the space between each pipe is optimal).
One of the most significant changes is increase in the compatibility with memory modules (which has always been the dark side of Ninjas) thanks to decently shortened ribs. This adjustment was made on both sides to ensure compatibility with AMD X399 and Intel X299 chipsets that have RAM slots on both sides. We will be able to use modules with height up to 5.5 cm.
Finally, Ninja also got new better quality fans with fluid bearings. The specifications mention a lifespan of up to 120,000 hours, four times more than standard Scythe stock fans. Perhaps the new range of speed (300 – 800 rpm) also plays its role in this. It seems that one of the points of Ninja 5 is to reduce noise. In order to keep the cooling performance as good as possible, the heatsink comes with two fans (the second one is for the outtake). And it makes sense, because one fan wouldn’t be enough for this 180mm wide cooler.
Ninja 5 is surprisingly cheap – 55 €. Let’s hope that there will be no complications like with Fuma rev. B. But judging by the assembly system (H.P.M.S. III), it should be completely OK. AM4 is supported.
