SilverStone Argon V140 ARGB CPU Cooler Review

Installing the SilverStone Argon V140 is extremely easy and the universal mounting hardware will allow the process to be the same across all platforms provided that you use the correct brackets.  On most platforms you will need to use the included backplate and build up a mounting base. 

We will be testing on the LGA1700 Alder Lake platform with a Core i7 12700k processor.  There are different blackplates for the LGA1200 and LGA1700 so be sure to grab the correct one for your system.

The first part is to install the backplate.  This plate comes pre-assembled and just needs to be lined up and held in place until step two can be completed.

Step two is a little different from what you would normally expect and requires placing the appropriate spacers over the threaded holes that protrude though the PCB.  The spacers will self-align but are easily moved if you are not careful.  You will want to consult the documentation to ensure you are using the correct spacers as these will correlate with the height of the different socket types.

When installing the mounting rails, you need to keep in mind the orientation of the heatsink and how you want the fans to be positioned.  By default, the airflow will follow the direction of the mounting rails.  If you are unsure how you want the heatsink installed then consider that you should have the airflow directed to the back of your chassis.

These rails are held in place with four bolts that will pass though the mounting rails and spacers to make contact with the backplate.  The screws only need to be finger tight however, you can use a Philips head screwdriver to secure them down.

When installing the rails I was concerned with how this could be accomplished inside a chassis.   Normally there are posts to support the required spacers and there absence can create some rather frustrating situations if your hands are less than steady.  If this is the case, I might suggest installing the spacers, mounting bolts and mounting rails as a single unit, this will keep the spacers in place while giving you more room to install the screws.

SilverStone includes a tube of thermal compound that must be installed before installing the cooler.  As always, I’ll be using the 5-dot method which creates an even distribution of thermal compound across the entire CPU. 

To secure the heatsink you need to position the cooler on top of the threaded posts so that the captured nuts will thread down on them.  Due to the offset position of the radiator you can install this heatsink without removing the cooling fan.  This also provides plenty of room around the CPU socket for VRM heatsink clearance and any memory you happen to install.