CPU coolers / Compare

ARCTIC Freezer 36 vs be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5

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Product A: ARCTIC

Freezer 36

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B

Product B: be quiet!

Dark Rock Pro 5

29 of 54 known

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Only differences

AARCTIC Freezer 36

Bbe quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5

General

9 of 12 differ

Series

Not available

Dark Rock1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026The launch article names the Dark Rock family and calls the Pro 5 the successor of the Dark Rock Pro 4.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ACFRE00121A, ACFRE00123A1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20262Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36-Black/ACFRE00123ARead 14 October 2026ACFRE00123A is the Freezer 36 (Black).3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026

BK03611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026

GTIN / EAN

4895213704120, 840033401937, 4895213704144, 8400334019511Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20262Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36-Black/ACFRE00123ARead 14 October 2026EAN 4895213704144 and UPC 840033401951 for ACFRE00123A.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026Shipping information: ACFRE00121A EAN 4895213704120, UPC 840033401937. ACFRE00123A EAN 4895213704144, UPC 840033401951.

426005219074611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026EAN barcode 4260052190746. Scan and the Icecat datasheet give the same code.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

5 March 20249Press articleigorslab.de/en/arctic-starts-the-launch-of-the-freezer-36-series-review-will-be-available-tomorrow-morningRead 14 October 2026Press release of 5 March 2024, quoted from ARCTIC.10Press articlefunkykit.com/news/arctic-announces-freezer-36-series-cpu-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026Press release of 5 March 2024.

11 October 20231Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026The launch article is dated 11 October 2023. KitGuru's article of the same day gives the same news.

Status

Available1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026The arctic.de store lists the standard model with its MSRP and an add-to-cart button on the access date.

Available11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Listed in stock with a price on the access date.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 615Press articleclubic.com/actualite-616492-dark-rock-pro-6-be-quiet-pousse-le-refroidissement-et-le-silence-dans-ses-retranchements.htmlRead 23 October 2026Clubic calls the Dark Rock Pro 6 the direct successor to the Dark Rock Pro 5.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

From $45.991Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20262Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36-Black/ACFRE00123ARead 14 October 20269Press articleigorslab.de/en/arctic-starts-the-launch-of-the-freezer-36-series-review-will-be-available-tomorrow-morningRead 14 October 202610Press articlefunkykit.com/news/arctic-announces-freezer-36-series-cpu-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026

$99.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Recommended retail price $99.90, with EUR 99.90 and GBP 99.99. Tom's Hardware prints $89.90 for this model, which conflicts. The launch press text is followed.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026$99.90 for the Dark Rock Pro 5, $114.90 for the Elite.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

From €32.991Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20262Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36-Black/ACFRE00123ARead 14 October 20269Press articleigorslab.de/en/arctic-starts-the-launch-of-the-freezer-36-series-review-will-be-available-tomorrow-morningRead 14 October 202610Press articlefunkykit.com/news/arctic-announces-freezer-36-series-cpu-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026

€99.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026EUR 99.90 recommended price at launch. Guru3D and Hardware-Journal give the same figure. VAT treatment is not stated.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026EUR 99.90 for the Dark Rock Pro 5.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, EU10Press articlefunkykit.com/news/arctic-announces-freezer-36-series-cpu-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026USD prices for the US next to EUR prices in the ARCTIC shop.

US, EU, GB1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Launch prices are given in USD, EUR and GBP.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Standard, Black1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026The colour selector offers two options named Standard and Black.2Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36-Black/ACFRE00123ARead 14 October 20268Press releasearctic.de/en/blog/the-new-generation-of-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026Standard model with a silver heatsink and copper heatpipes, and a black version with a black heatsink.

Black3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026

Cooler typeiAir is a heatsink with fans that sits on the CPU. AIO liquid is a sealed all-in-one liquid cooler with a pump block, tubes and a radiator.

Air1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026

Air1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Air tower cooler with two fans, no liquid loop.

Air cooler layoutiAir coolers only. Top-flow covers low-profile coolers whose fan blows down onto the board.

Single tower8Press releasearctic.de/en/blog/the-new-generation-of-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026Calls it a single-tower CPU cooler with two fans in push-pull.

Dual tower10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Seven copper heat pipes connected to dual towers.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Cooler type: dual tower, 7 heatpipes.

Rated TDP (claimed)iThe heat load the maker says the cooler handles. Makers do not share one test method, so this is not a measured result. A maker's maximum heat dissipation power counts. Check the maker's CPU compatibility page too.

Not available

270W1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026TDP rating 270 W for the Dark Rock Pro 5.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Base materialiThe surface that touches the CPU: the heatsink base or the AIO cold plate. Plating counts, so nickel-plated copper is not copper. Direct-touch heat pipes are the contact surface, so they count as copper unless plating is stated. The direct-contact heat pipes field records the design.

Copper12Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026Technical specifications of the Freezer 36 (Black): base material copper.13Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/89Read 14 October 2026Technical specifications of the report: block material copper. The same table lists 6 heatpipes of 4 mm, which disagrees with the maker's 4 heatpipes of 6 mm. The maker is followed.

Nickel-plated copper8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Copper with nickel plating, per the review's close-up of the base.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Spec table, Base: Nickel Plated Copper. Specs are credited as direct from be quiet!.

Thermal pasteiPre-applied means paste is already on the base or cold plate. Included means a separate tube or syringe in the box.

Included1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026The page lists TIM MX-6 (0.8 g). The spec sheet and the current manual say MX-7 (0.8 g). Either way a tube is in the box.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026General specifications: TIM MX-7 (0.8 g). The shop page still says MX-6.11Reviewigorslab.de/en/arctic-freezer-36-cpu-air-cooler-in-test-the-underdog-plays-top-dog-performs-well-and-costs-all-the-less-for-it/1Read 14 October 2026The accessories include a tube of MX-6 thermal paste (early sample) and an LGA1700 contact frame.

Included11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table: thermal paste included.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026TIM included, type not stated. The page says it works with liquid metal grease.

Compatibility

2 of 3 differ

CPU socketsiSockets the maker lists as supported in its spec table, compatibility list or guide, written as cpu_socket writes them, e.g. AM5 or LGA1851. List each socket on its own, so LGA115x becomes LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155 and LGA1156. When the maker names the sockets of such a family, list only the ones it names. A socket that needs a separately sold or requested mounting kit is left out. A new socket that the maker lists with no extra kit counts. LGA2011-v3 and 2011(V3) are written LGA2011-3. Threadripper sockets use AMD's names, so TR4 is written sTR4 and TR5 is written sTR5. sTRX4 and sWRX8 are sockets of their own.

AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA17001Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026Compatibility: Intel LGA1851 and LGA1700, AMD AM5 and AM4. The text says all Freezer 36 coolers work with LGA1851 without limitation.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 20266Owner's manualsupport.arctic.de/freezer-36_r7Read 14 October 2026Select your CPU socket: AMD AM5 and AM4, Intel LGA1851 and LGA1700.

AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA11501Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Launch sockets: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155 and AMD AM5, AM4. LGA1851 comes from retailer spec tables that carry the maker data (Scan, QuietPC).2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026Intel LGA 1700, 1200 and 115X, AMD AM5 and AM4. 115X is stored as LGA1150, LGA1151 and LGA1155, which Club386 and Guru3D name. LGA1156 is named only by QuietPC, so it is left out.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Intel 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155 and AMD AM5, AM4. Review dated 24 October 2023.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table lists LGA1851, 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2066 and AM5, AM4. Only the sockets that two or more sources name are stored, so 1156, 2011 and 2066 are left out.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Spec table lists Intel 1150, 1151, 1200, 1700, 1851 and AMD AM4, AM5.

RAM height clearanceiAir coolers only. The tallest memory module that fits under the cooler with all included fans in their standard position. When the maker gives different values per socket, store the lowest and name the others in the source note. A heatsink that does not reach over the memory slots has no height limit, so the field is left out and the maker's statement goes in the source note.

42.9mm4Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.arctic.de/products/freezer-36/techdocs/Freezer%2036%20-%202D%20Drawing.pdfRead 14 October 2026RAM clearance 43.9 mm on AMD and 42.9 mm on Intel (motherboard clearance 46.2 mm and 45.2 mm). The lower Intel figure is stored so it holds on every supported socket. Both fans are in their standard position.

Not available

Offset mountingiThe included mount can shift the base or cold plate off the socket centre, for example toward the AM5 hotspot. An asymmetric heatsink on a centred base does not count.

Not available

Not available

Heatsink

2 of 3 differ

Heat pipesiAir coolers only. Number of heat pipes. A U-shaped pipe with two ends in the fins counts as one. A T-shaped pipe with three ends, such as Cooler Master's 3DHP, also counts as one. The maker's count wins over a review or Cybenetics count.

41Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026Heatsink: 4x 6 mm Ø, copper. Fin stack 59x 0.4 mm, aluminium.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 202612Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026

72Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20268Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 202610Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Heat pipe diameteriAir coolers only. Outer diameter, such as 6 or 8.

6mm1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20263Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 202612Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026

6mm4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 7 heat pipes, 6 mm diameter.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Direct-contact heat pipesiAir coolers only. The heat pipes touch the CPU directly instead of sitting in a solid base plate.

Yes9Press articleigorslab.de/en/arctic-starts-the-launch-of-the-freezer-36-series-review-will-be-available-tomorrow-morningRead 14 October 2026Describes closely staggered direct-touch heatpipes.11Reviewigorslab.de/en/arctic-freezer-36-cpu-air-cooler-in-test-the-underdog-plays-top-dog-performs-well-and-costs-all-the-less-for-it/1Read 14 October 2026Review of the standard Freezer 36 (ACFRE00121A): instead of a cold plate the heatpipes sit in direct contact with the CPU heat spreader. The contact area is about 30.5 x 28.0 mm.12Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026The heatpipes come in direct contact with the CPU heat spreader.

Not available

Liquid cooling

None of 7 known

Radiator sizeiAIO coolers only. The nominal size class from the fan positions, such as 240, 280, 360 or 420.

Not available

Not available

Radiator dimensionsiRadiator without fans. Length runs along the row of fans. Width runs across it. Thickness is the depth the airflow passes through, such as 27 or 38.

Not available

Not available

Radiator material

Not available

Not available

Tube lengthiLength of each tube between the pump block and the radiator, as published. When the two tubes differ, the shorter is stored and the other goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Max pump speediHighest rated pump speed. When the maker gives a range, this is its top.

Not available

Not available

Pump power connectoriHow the pump gets power. A pump wired through a supplied hub or cable uses the plug at the motherboard or PSU end. A pump powered from SATA with a separate 3-pin speed lead is SATA power.

Not available

Not available

VRM faniA small fan on the pump block that blows over the motherboard voltage regulators.

Not available

Not available

Fans

1 of 2 differ

Included fansiFans in the box that cool the heatsink or radiator, one row per fan model. A VRM fan on the pump block is left out. Speed, airflow, pressure and noise are the maker's figures for one fan at full speed, in the fastest mode and without a low-noise adapter. When a range is published, the top of the range is stored. Count is the number of rotors, so a unified frame with three 120 mm rotors counts 3 with size 120. Min speed is the lowest speed while spinning. A zero RPM stop is not stored. FDB and S-FDB are fluid dynamic. HDB is hydrodynamic. Cooler Master's Loop Dynamic Bearing is loop dynamic. If the maker gives airflow only in m³/h, convert with 1 m³/h = 0.5886 CFM, round to one decimal and say so in the source note. Connector is the fan's power lead. A separate lighting lead is not counted, and a maker cable or adapter in the box that ends in a 4-pin PWM plug counts as 4-pin PWM, even when the fan's own lead is proprietary. For an air cooler with one fan, the maker's noise figure for the cooler is the fan noise. A figure the maker does not label per fan or in total counts as per fan. When a maker table prints noise for the whole cooler with no per-fan label and the maker's own data sheet for the same fan gives a figure, the fan data sheet figure is stored.

AARCTIC Freezer 36

Model	Size (mm)	Fans	Min speed (rpm)	Max speed (rpm)	Airflow (CFM)	Static pressure (mmH₂O)	Bearing	Connector
P12 PWM PST	120	2	200	1,800	56.3	2.2	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM

Source1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026Fans: 2x P12 PWM PST, 200 - 1800 rpm PWM controlled (0 rpm below 5 % PWM), fluid dynamic bearing, 4-pin PWM connector plus 4-pin plug. The page gives no airflow, pressure or noise for the fans.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026Fan specifications: 2x P12 PWM PST, 200-1800 rpm PWM controlled (0 rpm below 5 % PWM), fluid dynamic bearing, 0.10 A at 12 V DC, cable 200 mm plus 80 mm splitter cable, 4-pin PWM connector plus 4-pin plug.7Maker product pagearctic.de/en/P12-PWM-PST/ACFAN00132ARead 14 October 2026Standalone P12 PWM PST fan, the model named on the Freezer 36 spec sheet: 200-1800 rpm, 56.30 cfm (95.70 m3/h), 2.20 mmH2O, fluid dynamic bearing, 4-pin connector. The maker gives noise only as 0.3 sone, so noise_dba is left out. Retailers print 23.5 dB(A) and Hardware Busters 25 dBA.12Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026Technical specifications: 2x P12 PWM PST, 120x120x25 mm, 200-1800 rpm, 56.3 CFM, 2.2 mmH2O. The review calls the bearing rifle type from ARCTIC's drawing. ARCTIC states fluid dynamic, so the maker is followed.

Bbe quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5

Model	Size (mm)	Fans	Max speed (rpm)	Airflow (CFM)	Static pressure (mmH₂O)	Bearing	Connector
Silent Wings 4 120mm	120	1	2,000	52.5	2.48	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM
Silent Wings 135mm	135	1	1,700	68.7	1.82	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM

Source1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Performance mode: front 120 mm fan 2000 rpm and middle 135 mm fan 1700 rpm. Quiet mode: 1500 and 1300 rpm. The 2000 and 1700 figures are stored as the fastest mode.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026120 mm front fan, height-adjustable, and 135 mm middle fan on the top cover. Performance mode 2000 rpm (front) and 1700 rpm (middle). Fluid-dynamic bearings.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: quiet mode 1500 rpm (front) and 1300 rpm (middle), performance mode 2000 rpm (front) and 1700 rpm (middle). Overall noise 8.9, 16.3 and 23.3 dB(A) at 50, 75 and 100 percent. That noise is for the whole cooler, so no fan noise is stored.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Review dated 24 November 2023. Performance mode 2000 rpm (120 mm) and 1700 rpm (135 mm), quiet mode 1500 and 1300 rpm. The 120 mm fan plugs into the 135 mm fan, so one header controls both. Max noise 32.3 dB(A) in performance mode and 23.3 dB(A) in quiet mode for the whole cooler.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Fan table: Silent Wings 135 mm and Silent Wings 4 120 mm, 135 x 135 x 25 and 120 x 120 x 25 mm, fluid dynamic bearing, no lighting. The page says the Pro V is the same as the Pro 5.11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table lists airflow 52.5 CFM (120 mm) and 68.7 CFM (135 mm) and static pressure 2.48 and 1.82 mmAq, with fluid dynamic bearing and 12 V. The table assigns the max speeds the wrong way round (120 mm = 1500, 135 mm = 2000), so speeds come from the launch articles. The weight row says 1000 g, which conflicts with every other source.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Fan sizes 135 x 135 x 25 and 120 x 120 x 25 mm, fluid dynamic bearing, 4-pin connector. This German catalog sheet (publication date 23 July 2026) lists sockets without LGA1851, so it is not used for sockets.14Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2024/02/14/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/ampRead 14 October 2026Spec table: Silent Wings 4 120 mm 1500 rpm (Q mode) and 2000 rpm (P mode), 52.5 CFM and 2.48 mmH2O. Silent Wings 4 135 mm 1300 and 1700 rpm, 68.7 CFM and 1.82 mmH2O. The page gives RAM clearance as 45 mm, while Tom's Hardware says 42 mm out of the box, so RAM clearance is left out.

FansiNumber of included heatsink or radiator fans.

2=CalculatedFrom Included fans

2=CalculatedFrom Included fans

Display and lighting

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RGB lightingiLighting on the fans, the heatsink or the pump block.

No8Press releasearctic.de/en/blog/the-new-generation-of-air-coolersRead 14 October 2026Five versions: the standard model, a black version, a CO version and two illuminated A-RGB versions in black and white. The standard and black versions are not the illuminated ones.

No3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026The spec table lists no lighting connector.11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table: RGB no.

Lighting standardiThe named lighting connection. ARGB lighting alone does not prove a 5 V header. Proprietary means the maker's own hub or cable system.

Not available

Not available

Built-in screeniA screen on the pump block or the heatsink. LCD and OLED screens show images. A segment readout shows digits only, such as the CPU temperature.

None4Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.arctic.de/products/freezer-36/techdocs/Freezer%2036%20-%202D%20Drawing.pdfRead 14 October 2026The 2D drawing shows the top, side and front views of the heatsink and both fans, with no screen.

None13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Display type: not applicable. The cooler has no screen.

Screen sizeiDiagonal of the built-in screen.

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Screen resolution

Not available

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SoftwareiThe maker's software for lighting, the screen or the pump. Software that works with the cooler out of the box. Software that needs a separately sold controller is left out.

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Needs a USB headeriThe cooler needs an internal USB 2.0 header on the motherboard for software control, sensors or the screen. A wireless receiver that plugs into any USB port does not count.

No6Owner's manualsupport.arctic.de/freezer-36_r7Read 14 October 2026The installation steps connect only fan headers (CPU_FAN, or CPU_FAN plus CPU_OPT). No USB cable is supplied or mentioned.

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Measured

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Cybenetics THETA, AMD AM5iThe THETA level for this cooler's class on the Cybenetics AMD AM5 platform with a Ryzen 9 7900X. It is rated at 30 dB(A) normalized noise, or at 25 dB(A) for a cooler that cannot reach 30 dB(A). No level means tested without a level. A cooler that Cybenetics did not test on this platform is left out. A report with a heading for this platform but no results counts as not tested.

Silver13Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/89Read 14 October 2026Report ACCLR00089 is for the Freezer 36 Black (ACFRE00123A), tested on 31 March 2025. The maker lists the same heatsink, fans and weight for the standard model. THETA Silver, Air, rated at 30 dB(A) on a Ryzen 9 7900X with the Default mount. It was evaluated under protocol revision 1.8, before Revision 2.0. The report shows no THETA level and no results for Intel LGA1851, so no LGA1851 value is stored.

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Cybenetics THETA, Intel LGA1851iThe same rating on the Cybenetics Intel LGA1851 platform with a Core Ultra 9 285K. A cooler that Cybenetics did not test on this platform is left out. A report with a heading for this platform but no results counts as not tested.

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Overall performance at 30 dB(A), AM5 (measured)iThe Cybenetics Overall Performance score at 30 dB(A) normalized noise on the AMD AM5 platform. It is average CPU power times average CPU frequency divided by average CPU temperature. Higher is better. A cooler rated only at 25 dB(A) has no value here.

9,91813Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/89Read 14 October 2026Overall Performance 9,918 at 30 dB(A) on a Ryzen 9 7900X (PBO enabled, per the protocol).

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Overall performance at 30 dB(A), LGA1851 (measured)iThe same score on the Cybenetics Intel LGA1851 platform. Scores from the two platforms are not comparable with each other.

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Noise at 100% fan setting (Cybenetics)iThe Cybenetics noise at the 100% fan setting, measured 1 m from the cooler in a hemi-anechoic chamber, with the pump of an AIO at full speed. Other reviewers' noise goes in the thermal test rows.

30.5dB(A)13Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/89Read 14 October 202630.5 dB(A) at the 100% fan setting (1874 and 1895 rpm). Hemi-anechoic chamber with a 6 dB(A) noise floor, Bruel & Kjaer 2270 sound analyser, microphone 1 m from the cooler per the protocol.

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Thermal tests (measured)iReviewer results, one row per test condition. Rows compare only when the test CPU, load, power and noise level match. The source note names the reviewer, ambient temperature, case or open bench, and thermal paste. Test CPU is the CPU name only, such as AMD Ryzen 9 7900X. The power limit and mode go in the load. Above ambient is stored only when the reviewer publishes it, never computed from the ambient.

AARCTIC Freezer 36

Test CPU	Load	CPU power (W)	Fan setting	Noise (dB(A))	CPU temperature (°C)
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X	Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled	178.2	20 dB(A)	20	95.2
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X	Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled	182.7	25 dB(A)	25	95.3
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X	Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled	183.9	30 dB(A)	30	95.2
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X	Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled	185.3	100%	30.5	95.2

Source13Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/89Read 14 October 2026Cybenetics Cooling Solutions Test Protocol (https://cybenetics.com/data/Cybenetics%20Cooling%20Solutions%20Test%20Protocol_en.pdf), revision 1.8 procedure: ambient held at 25 C and 30% humidity in a climate chamber, open Cooler Master Test Bench, Asus TUF Gaming X670E-Plus, Prime95 Small FFTs for 20 minutes per noise level, at least two sessions averaged. Fans were set to reach each normalized noise level at 1 m, or 100%. CPU power is measured at the EPS connectors. The protocol states Arctic MX-4 paste for all tests. The CPU sits at its 95 C limit in all rows. The report publishes no temperature above ambient.

Bbe quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5

Test CPU	Load	CPU power (W)	Fan setting	Noise (dB(A))	CPU temperature (°C)	Above ambient (°C)
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	306.56	20 dB(A)	20	91.83	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	312.6	25 dB(A)	25	91.81	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	322.02	30 dB(A)	30	91.89	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	329.15	100%	33.7	91.38	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled	220	Low noise mode	38.2	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled	225	Full speed	41.4	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled at normalized noise	217	38.2 dB(A)	38.2	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit	175	Low noise mode	37.3	Not available	57
Intel Core i7-13700K	Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit	175	Full speed	Not available	Not available	58

Source5Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/4Read 14 October 2026Hardware Busters, review dated 24 October 2023 (earlier test procedure, Intel Core i9-13900K). Hemi-anechoic chamber with a 6 dB(A) noise floor for noise. Climate chamber at 25 C plus or minus 0.5 C, DimasTech bench, Arctic MX-4 paste, Prime95 small FFTs, 20 minutes per run with a 10-minute cool-down, at least two sessions averaged. CPU power is measured with Powenetics. The page says the CPU package limit was set to 250 W, but the measured power is 306 to 329 W, so the stated limit is not stored. The page gives no temperature above ambient and no mount.6Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/6Read 14 October 2026Bar charts for fan speeds set to 20, 25 and 30 dB(A) and for full fan speed: CPU power 306.56, 312.6, 322.02 and 329.15 W. CPU temperature 91.83, 91.81, 91.89 and 91.38 C. Values read from the chart images.7Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/5Read 14 October 2026Noise chart, fans at 100% speed: 33.7 dBA. The 100% row stores this noise. The page does not say which speed-switch mode was used. This is the Hardware Busters value, not a Cybenetics report, so measured_noise_max_dba is left empty.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Tom's Hardware, Albert Thomas, review of 6 December 2023, which tests the Dark Rock Pro V (Pro 5) and the Dark Rock Elite together. Intel Core i7-13700K on an MSI Z690 A-Pro DDR4 in a be quiet! Silent Base 802 case with the system fans on speed 1, 23 C ambient, Thermalright LGA1700 contact frame. Noise is the whole system, and 37.3 dBA is the idle system floor. Paste and noise distance are not stated. Low noise mode is the speed switch on quiet, full speed is performance mode. Values read from charts and text: 220 W and 38.2 dBA in low noise mode, 225 W and 41.4 dBA at full speed, 217 W at a normalized 38.2 dBA, and 57 C (low noise) and 58 C (full speed) above ambient at a 175 W limit. The 175 W full-speed noise is not stated for this model. The Hardware Busters rows use another CPU and are not comparable.

Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiAir coolers only. The cooler with its included fans in the standard position, without the mounting kit. Height runs from the bottom of the base to the top. Depth runs along the airflow, fans included. Width runs across the fins. Map by direction, not by letter. Width runs across the fins, depth runs along the airflow. DeepCool's 129 x 138 x 160 mm (L x W x H) is width 129, depth 138, height 160.

Width126Height159Depth104mm(5 × 6.3 × 4.1 in)1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026General specifications: 104 (L) x 126 (W) x 159 (H) mm. The 2D drawing shows 126 mm across the fan face and 104 mm along the airflow, fans included.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026General specifications: 104 (L) x 126 (W) x 159 (H) mm. The drawing maps width 126 and depth 104.4Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.arctic.de/products/freezer-36/techdocs/Freezer%2036%20-%202D%20Drawing.pdfRead 14 October 20262D drawing for ACFRE00121A (rev. date 28/12/2023): overall 104 mm side view, 126 mm front view, 159 mm height. The front view is the fan face, so width is 126 mm and depth is 104 mm. The drawing shows both fans.12Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026126 mm x 104 mm x 159 mm including fans, which matches the maker's drawing.

Width136Height168Depth145mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 5.7 in)1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026145 x 136 x 168 mm in the launch table, shared with the Elite. Guru3D says without mounting material. Read as depth 145 (along the airflow, fans included), width 136 and height 168.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 145 x 136 x 168 mm (L x W x H) without mounting material.4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20268Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 20269Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5/2Read 14 October 2026Measured height 168 mm, width 136 mm and depth 145 mm with the front fan attached.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Heatsink dimensionsiAir coolers only. The heatsink without fans, as the maker lists it. Map by direction, not by letter. Width runs across the fins, depth runs along the airflow. DeepCool's 129 x 138 x 160 mm (L x W x H) is width 129, depth 138, height 160. A heatsink depth that equals the depth with fans includes the fan, so that axis is not stored.

Not available

Width136Height168Depth119.5mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 4.7 in)4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: heatsink 119.5 x 136 x 168 mm (L x W x H). Overall size with fans and without mounting hardware 145 x 136 x 168 mm. Depth is the first number.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

WeightiAn air cooler with its included fans. An AIO cooler as one unit with pump block, tubes, radiator and fans. Mounting hardware is left out when the maker states it separately. When one maker figure may include the mounting kit, such as a press release net weight above the product page figure, the product page figure is stored. An RGB edition can weigh a little more or less, so it is per variant.

890g(2 lb)1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026General specifications: weight 890 g. Packaging weight is 1.23 kg.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026General specifications: weight 890 g. Gross weight 1230 g.12Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/arctic-freezer-36-black-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 14 October 2026Weight 890 g.

1,290g(2.8 lb)1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1.29 kg.4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1290 g.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1290 g.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Weight 1.29 kg, package weight 1.74 kg.

Heatsink weightiAir coolers only. The heatsink without fans.

Not available

818g(1.8 lb)9Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5/2Read 14 October 2026The heatsink alone weighs 818 g and the total cooler with fans and top frame 1.29 kg. The page does not say how it was weighed.

In the box

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In the boxiItems supplied with this exact model, verbatim.

Freezer 36 Heatsink x1, P12 PWM PST Set x1, MX-7 (0.8 g) x1, CPU Contact Frame x1 (Intel), T20 Driver x1 (Intel), Shoulder Screws x4 (Intel), Mounting Module x2 (AMD), Screws x4 (AMD)6Owner's manualsupport.arctic.de/freezer-36_r7Read 14 October 2026Packaging Content image of the Rev 7 manual: heatsink, P12 PWM PST fan set, MX-7 (0.8 g). Intel: CPU contact frame, T20 driver, 4 shoulder screws. AMD: 2 mounting modules and 4 screws. The manual hub at support.arctic.de/freezer-36-series lists Rev 1 to Rev 7.

Mounting accessories for Intel and AMD sockets, Screwdriver, Thermal paste tube, Mounting documentation, Warranty information4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Page 2: all parts to install the cooler on all popular CPU sockets, a long screwdriver and a thermal grease tube. No full parts list is published.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Packaging page: foam brackets, a magnetic screwdriver, mounting documentation and warranty information, a bag of mounting accessories and a small tube of thermal paste. The foam brackets are packing and are not listed. HWBusters page 2 agrees on the long screwdriver and the thermal grease tube.

Links

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Product page

www.arctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121A1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 2026

Not available

Spec sheet

www.arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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Manual

support.arctic.de/freezer-36-series5Owner's manualsupport.arctic.de/freezer-36-seriesRead 14 October 2026ARCTIC support hub for the Freezer 36 user manual. It lists one manual per product revision, Rev 1 to Rev 7, and the revision number is printed on the bottom of the box.

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EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

6years1Maker product pagearctic.de/en/Freezer-36/ACFRE00121ARead 14 October 20263Maker spec sheet (PDF)arctic.de/media/6b/50/57/1709195123/Spec_Sheet_Freezer_36_EN.pdfRead 14 October 2026

3years1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202610Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 202636 months, return to base.

Both are also in the API. Back to all CPU coolers.