SilverStone Milo ML05 - Cooling Performance

Due to the fact this is a mini-ITX case that doesn't support graphics cards, we haven't been able to use our usual test hardware and as such, our results, and therefore cooling scores aren't directly comparable to any of the mini-ITX, micro-ATX or full-size cases we've reviewed.

Our test kit includes:

• CPU: Intel Core i5-2500K overclocked to 4.3GHz using a vcore of 1.3V.
  
• Motherboard: Asus P8Z77-I Deluxe
  
• RAM: 4GB Kingston DDR3 1600MHz memory
  
• PSU: SilverStone ST45SF
  
• CPU cooler: Zalman CNPS 8900 low-profile cooler

We've opted for our standard mini-ITX motherboard and overclocked CPU plus a low-profile cooler, as cases such as this have severe height limitations, with the emphasis also on how well the case is able to remove heat from the system - our primary concern in case testing. You can expect to achieve better results by using a CPU with a lower TDP.


The system was loaded using Prime95 and we used Realtemp and to monitor the temperatures, taking the maximum values when the readings had plateaued. As the Milo ML05 does not accept full-height graphics cards we've only tested with the CPU only, which is the same model running at the same overclock as our usual mini-ITX test system.

Finally, as heavy heat loads aren't typical challenges for HTPCs, we've displaced our usual mini-ITX cooling score up a little to reflect cases that keep our toasty CPU within check.

** Please not that all cases below except the SilverStone Milo ML05 also had a graphics card installed so aren't directly comparable and are included for reference purposes only**