Looking for a powerful CPU cooler that won’t sound like a jet engine in your PC? The Dark Rock Pro 4 from be quiet! has been gaining attention among PC builders who need serious cooling power without the noise. This premium air cooler combines impressive performance with an elegant design that works well in most modern builds.
The Dark Rock Pro 4 offers immense cooling performance of 250W TDP while maintaining virtually inaudible operation, making it an excellent choice for overclocked systems and demanding applications. The dual-tower design with two fans creates efficient airflow through the heatsink while keeping noise levels remarkably low. This balance of cooling efficiency and silence is what sets this cooler apart from many competing products.
The sleek black finish gives this cooler a premium look that fits well in most PC builds. While it’s not the smallest cooler on the market, its performance-to-noise ratio justifies the space it occupies. Many users find the investment worthwhile when they experience how effective it is at keeping high-performance processors cool during intensive tasks.
Dark Rock Pro 4: Superior Cooling Solution for High-Performance CPUs
As modern CPUs push the boundaries of performance, efficient cooling solutions become essential to maintain stability, prevent thermal throttling, and ensure longevity. The Dark Rock Pro 4 by be quiet! positions itself as a premium air cooler designed to meet the demands of high-performance processors while maintaining whisper-quiet operation. With its sleek all-black aesthetic, dual-tower heatsink design, and dual-fan setup, the Dark Rock Pro 4 promises to deliver exceptional cooling power without compromising on noise levels.
This review and guide will explore the features, performance, installation process, and overall value of the Dark Rock Pro 4, helping you decide if it’s the right cooler for your build.
Review
Design and Build Quality
The Dark Rock Pro 4 stands out with its elegant, minimalist design featuring a brushed aluminum top cover and a matte black ceramic coating on the heat pipes and fins. Its dual-tower heatsink comprises seven high-quality copper heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU. The two fans—a 135mm Silent Wings PWM fan and a 120mm Silent Wings fan—are engineered for optimal airflow and low noise.
The cooler’s size is substantial, measuring 145 x 136 x 162.8 mm, making it one of the larger air coolers on the market. This size allows it to dissipate heat effectively but requires checking for clearance in your PC case and RAM slots.
Cooling Performance
In tests and benchmarks, the Dark Rock Pro 4 performs admirably, rivaling many liquid cooling solutions. It can handle thermal loads up to 250W, making it suitable for overclocked CPUs and high-end processors like Intel Core i9 and AMD Ryzen 9 series.
Under load, the cooler maintains CPU temperatures significantly lower than many mid-range air coolers, while producing noise levels as low as 24.3 dB(A), which is near silent. This balance of performance and quiet operation makes it ideal for users who want powerful cooling without the noise of typical high-performance fans.
Installation
Installing the Dark Rock Pro 4 is straightforward but requires some patience due to its size and weight. The package includes a comprehensive mounting kit compatible with Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 2011-3, 2066 sockets, and AMD AM4 sockets.
The cooler’s mounting system is secure and designed to distribute pressure evenly across the CPU, ensuring optimal contact for heat transfer. The fans can be adjusted or removed easily, and the cooler’s design allows compatibility with most RAM modules, although very tall RAM with large heatsinks might face clearance issues.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent cooling performance rivaling AIO liquid coolers
- Ultra-quiet operation with Silent Wings fans
- Premium build quality with sleek aesthetics
- Dual-tower design with seven heat pipes for efficient heat dissipation
- Wide socket compatibility
Cons:
- Large size requires checking case and RAM clearance
- Installation can be bulky and requires care
- Premium price point compared to simpler air coolers
Guide: How to Install the Dark Rock Pro 4
What You Need
- Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler and mounting kit (included)
- Compatible motherboard and CPU
- Thermal paste (pre-applied or included in the package)
- Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare Your Workspace: Power off your PC and unplug all cables. Place your PC on a stable surface.
- Remove Existing Cooler: If replacing an old cooler, carefully remove it and clean the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol.
- Install Backplate: Attach the mounting backplate on the rear side of your motherboard, aligning it with the CPU socket holes.
- Apply Thermal Paste: If not pre-applied, apply a small pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of the CPU.
- Attach Mounting Brackets: Secure the mounting brackets on the front side of the motherboard using the included screws.
- Position the Cooler: Carefully place the Dark Rock Pro 4 onto the CPU, aligning the mounting screws with the brackets.
- Secure the Cooler: Tighten the screws diagonally to ensure even pressure.
- Attach Fans: Install the 135mm and 120mm fans on the heatsinks using the provided clips.
- Connect Fan Cables: Plug the fan power cables into the appropriate CPU fan headers on your motherboard.
- Check Clearance: Ensure the cooler does not interfere with RAM or other components.
- Power On and Test: Boot your PC and monitor temperatures and noise levels to confirm proper installation.
Conclusion
The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is a top-tier air cooler that combines outstanding thermal performance with near-silent operation and elegant design. It’s an excellent choice for enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals running high-performance CPUs who want reliable cooling without the complexity or noise of liquid cooling systems. While its large size may require careful consideration of your build’s compatibility, the Dark Rock Pro 4 rewards you with premium cooling and quiet operation that few air coolers can match.
Specifications Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Cooler Type | Dual-tower air cooler |
| Heat Pipes | 7 x 6mm copper heat pipes |
| Fans | 1 x 135mm Silent Wings PWM fan (1200 RPM – 1500 RPM) |
1 x 120mm Silent Wings fan (up to 1350 RPM) |
| Noise Level | 24.3 dB(A) (max) | | Dimensions (L x W x H) | 145 x 136 x 162.8 mm | | Weight | 1,120 g (including fans) | | Supported Sockets | Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 2011-3, 2066; AMD AM4 | | Max TDP | 250W | | Material | Aluminum fins, copper heat pipes, brushed aluminum top cover | | Price Range | ~$90 – $100 (varies by retailer) |
For more detailed reviews and benchmarks, visit:
Key Takeaways
- The Dark Rock Pro 4 delivers exceptional 250W TDP cooling performance while operating almost silently.
- Its dual-tower design with two fans creates efficient airflow while maintaining low noise levels.
- Installation compatibility should be checked carefully as the cooler’s size may interfere with tall RAM modules or smaller cases.
Design and Build Quality
The Dark Rock Pro 4 CPU cooler from be quiet! combines exceptional craftsmanship with functional design elements. It features premium materials and attention to detail that sets it apart from many competitors in the high-end air cooling market.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Dark Rock Pro 4 showcases a sophisticated all-black design that gives it a premium appearance. Its brushed aluminum top cover provides a sleek, modern aesthetic that complements most PC builds, especially those with darker themes. The diamond cut finish adds a subtle yet elegant touch, reflecting be quiet!’s commitment to both performance and style.
The cooler maintains a professional appearance with its black coating applied to all metal parts. This creates a cohesive look that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Unlike some CPU coolers that seem out of place in a carefully designed system, the Dark Rock Pro 4 enhances the overall look of a build with its understated elegance and refined details.
Material Construction
The Dark Rock Pro 4 features high-quality components throughout its construction. At its core are seven high-performance copper heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU. These pipes connect to a substantial heatsink with aluminum fins optimized for airflow.
The cooler’s base uses direct-contact copper for excellent thermal conductivity. This attention to material selection contributes to its impressive 250W TDP cooling capacity.
Build quality rivals premium competitors like Noctua, with no loose parts or manufacturing flaws. The mounting hardware feels solid and well-engineered. The included fans feature rubber dampeners that reduce vibration and noise.
The Dark Rock Pro 4’s weight reflects its substantial materials, giving it a robust feel that inspires confidence in its durability and cooling capabilities.
Compatibility and Installation
The Dark Rock Pro 4 CPU cooler offers broad compatibility with various motherboards and processors. Before purchasing this cooler, it’s important to understand its compatibility requirements and installation process to ensure it fits properly in your system.
Motherboard Compatibility
The Dark Rock Pro 4 works with most standard motherboard layouts, but some considerations must be taken into account. Be Quiet! provides a dedicated motherboard compatibility tool on their website where users can check if their specific model is compatible.
Most modern motherboards support this cooler unless they have unusually tall heatsinks or non-standard component layouts. The cooler’s large size means it could potentially interfere with other motherboard components in some cases.
For best results, users should measure the space around their CPU socket before purchasing. ATX and E-ATX motherboards typically provide enough clearance, while some smaller form factors might be more challenging to work with.
RAM Clearance
RAM compatibility is a crucial factor when installing the Dark Rock Pro 4. The cooler features strategic cutouts in its aluminum heatsinks to enhance RAM clearance, but height restrictions still apply.
Standard RAM modules usually fit without issues, but taller RAM with large heatspreaders or RGB elements might cause interference. The front fan can be adjusted slightly higher to accommodate taller RAM, but this may affect case compatibility.
The maximum RAM height allowed depends on the motherboard layout, but generally:
- Front side: Up to 40mm RAM height
- Back side: Higher clearance available
It’s recommended to use low-profile RAM modules when pairing with this cooler to avoid clearance issues.
CPU Socket Support
The Dark Rock Pro 4 supports a wide range of CPU sockets from both AMD and Intel. Compatible sockets include:
AMD:
- AM5
- AM4
- AM3(+)
- FM2(+)
Intel:
- LGA 1700
- LGA 1200
- LGA 115x (1150, 1151, 1155, 1156)
- LGA 2066
- LGA 2011(-3)
Installation requires a Phillips-head screwdriver and follows different procedures depending on the socket type. Be Quiet! provides detailed installation videos specifically for AMD AM5/AM4 and Intel platforms.
The mounting hardware comes included in the package, making installation straightforward once proper clearance is confirmed.
Cooling Efficiency
The Dark Rock Pro 4 delivers exceptional cooling capacity rated at 250W TDP, making it suitable for high-performance and overclocked systems. Its advanced design combines premium materials with innovative fan technology to achieve impressive thermal results while maintaining quiet operation.
Thermal Performance
The Dark Rock Pro 4’s cooling efficiency stems from its seven copper heat pipes that effectively transfer heat away from the CPU. These pipes make direct contact with the processor and distribute heat across the cooler’s dual tower heatsink design. The copper base provides excellent heat conductivity, while the black coating helps with heat radiation.
With its 250W TDP rating, this cooler handles even the most demanding processors with ease. Users report temperature drops of up to 20°C compared to stock coolers. This makes it particularly valuable for overclocked systems where thermal management is critical.
The cooler’s performance curve shows it maintains stability even under heavy loads. It achieves maximum cooling performance at system noise levels of just 38.9 dBA, which is remarkably quiet for its cooling capacity.
Fan Technology
The Dark Rock Pro 4 employs Silent Wings PWM fans engineered for optimal airflow and minimal noise. The primary configuration includes a 135mm fan and a 120mm fan working in tandem to push air through the heatsink efficiently.
These fans feature:
- Airflow-optimized fan blades
- Fluid dynamic bearings for reduced vibration
- PWM control allowing speeds from 400 to 1500 RPM
- Decoupled fan mounting to prevent vibration transfer
The fans’ high air pressure design helps overcome the resistance of the dense fin array. This results in more effective cooling without requiring higher RPMs and noise. The included fan clips make installation and maintenance straightforward.
The secondary 120mm fan enhances cooling performance by creating a push-pull configuration, which is particularly beneficial for systems running high TDP processors or aggressive overclocks.
Technical Specifications
The Dark Rock Pro 4 is a high-performance CPU cooler designed for powerful systems. It combines excellent cooling capability with quiet operation through advanced engineering and quality materials.
Heat Sink Measurements
The Dark Rock Pro 4 features impressive dimensions measuring 145.7 x 136 x 162.8 mm (L x W x H). With a total weight of 1.13 kg, this is a substantial cooler that provides serious cooling capability.
The heatsink utilizes 7 advanced copper heat pipes with a diameter of 6mm. These pipes are designed to maximize heat conductance away from the CPU.
The fins are airflow-optimized with a wave-contoured design that helps improve airflow while reducing noise. This design allows the cooler to handle CPUs with a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of up to 250W.
The Dark Rock Pro 4 comes with pre-applied thermal compound, ensuring optimal heat transfer from the CPU to the heatsink right out of the box.
Noise Level
The Dark Rock Pro 4 excels in quiet operation with noise levels ranging from just 12.8 to 24.3 dB. This low noise profile makes it an excellent choice for silent PC builds.
The cooler uses be quiet!’s Silent Wings fans that feature:
- Airflow-optimized fan blades
- Smooth-running 6-pole motors
- Fluid-dynamic bearings
These design elements work together to minimize vibration and noise while maintaining cooling efficiency. The fans are also equipped with anti-vibration mounts that further reduce noise by preventing vibrations from transferring to the case.
Even at maximum speed, the Dark Rock Pro 4 remains noticeably quieter than many competing high-end air coolers.
Fan Specs and Control
The Dark Rock Pro 4 comes equipped with two fans in a push-pull configuration:
- 1x 120mm front fan
- 1x 135mm middle fan
Both fans can reach speeds up to 1500 RPM and deliver airflow of approximately 50.5 CFM. The fans connect via standard 4-pin PWM headers, allowing for precise speed control through the motherboard.
PWM function enables automatic speed adjustment based on CPU temperature. This ensures optimal cooling when needed and quieter operation during lighter tasks.
The fans feature a sleek black design that complements the dark nickel-plated heatsink. The funnel-shaped frame on the front fan increases air pressure, improving cooling efficiency through the dense fin array.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Dark Rock Pro 4 CPU cooler raises several common questions about compatibility, performance, and installation. These answers provide essential information for users considering this cooling solution.
What are the system requirements for the Be Quiet Dark Rock Pro 4?
The Dark Rock Pro 4 requires a compatible CPU socket and sufficient clearance in your case. It supports most modern Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155/1156/2066/2011-3/2011 and AMD AM4/AM5.
Your case needs at least 163mm of CPU cooler clearance height. The cooler measures 145.7mm wide and 136mm deep, so ensure your motherboard layout can accommodate these dimensions.
How does the performance of the Dark Rock Pro 4 compare to its predecessors?
The Dark Rock Pro 4 offers improved cooling efficiency over previous models while maintaining the signature quiet operation. It features an optimized heatsink design with seven copper heat pipes.
The dual-tower arrangement with two Silent Wings fans provides better heat dissipation than single-tower predecessors. Its black coating not only looks premium but also improves heat radiation.
Can the Dark Rock Pro 4 provide sufficient cooling for high-TDP processors?
Yes, the Dark Rock Pro 4 can handle processors with up to 250W TDP, making it suitable for high-performance and overclocked CPUs. This cooling capacity supports demanding workloads like video rendering and gaming.
The dual-fan setup with a 120mm front fan and 135mm middle fan creates excellent airflow through the heatsink. Users report reliable cooling even under stress tests, though some isolated issues may occur with improper installation.
What is the installation process for the Be Quiet Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler?
Installation involves attaching mounting brackets to the motherboard, applying thermal paste, and securing the heatsink. The package includes all necessary mounting hardware and a screwdriver.
The process requires careful attention to the manual instructions. Some users find installation challenging due to the cooler’s size and weight, especially in smaller cases.
You’ll need to install the mounting brackets first, then apply thermal paste to the CPU before positioning the heatsink and securing it with the mounting bridge.
How does the RAM clearance of the Dark Rock Pro 4 affect compatibility with different motherboards?
The Dark Rock Pro 4 offers 40mm of RAM clearance under the front fan. This accommodates standard-height RAM modules but may conflict with tall RAM sticks that have large heatsinks or RGB elements.
For motherboards with RAM slots close to the CPU socket, you may need to use low-profile memory. Alternatively, you can raise the front fan slightly, which increases the cooler’s overall height.
The cooler’s design allows some adjustment of the front fan position to help with RAM compatibility issues.
Where can I find professional reviews and benchmarks for the Dark Rock Pro 4?
Professional reviews are available on tech websites like Tom’s Hardware, TechPowerUp, and AnandTech. These sites provide detailed performance benchmarks comparing the Dark Rock Pro 4 to other cooling solutions.
YouTube channels specializing in PC hardware often feature installation guides and thermal performance tests. Forums like Reddit’s r/buildapc and Overclock.net contain user experiences and troubleshooting information.
Many retailers also host customer reviews that can provide real-world feedback about long-term reliability and compatibility with specific systems.
