bequiet! Shadow Rock Slim Heatsink Review

In the package you will find everything you need to install the Shadow Rock Slim including mounting rails for all of the major processor platforms, a universal back plate and thermal paste.

We will be testing on the LGA 1155 Sandy Bridge platform and will need to build up a mounting base to install the cooler.  The installation method has gotten a little better with each new heatsink but, is still pretty cumbersome.

The first step will be to orient and install the backplate assembly and to secure everything in place.  The backpate can only be installed in two positions so make sure the CPU socket mounting screws align with the voids on the backplate.

Long screws and plastic clips hold the backplate in place.  Make sure the clips fit snuggly next to the motherboard as they also serve as stops for the strangely shaped nuts that get installed next.   We found it easiest to use a screw driver from the back of the motherboard to help get these installed.

Next select the proper mounting rails and secure them to the heatsink using the supplied screws. 

At this point you are ready to install the Shadow Rock Slim.  Start with thermal paste, we prefer the 5 dot method because it spreads well and will conform better in the event that either the processor or heatsink isn’t flat. 

A common complaint from us about the bequiet! mounting system is how the heatsink is secured to the motherboard.  Instead of using clips or center mounted screws you must basically bolt the cooler down at each of the four corners.  Not only does this have a tendency to introduce un-even mounting pressure but is next to impossible to do while the motherboard is in a case. 

Compound that with having to use tools on both sides of the motherboard and you may start spewing expletives.

One nice thing about the Shadow Rock Slim is that since it is smaller than most bequiet! coolers you actually have room to use a nut driver instead of the included wrench.

Don’t forget to hook up the fan and you’re done.