ZALMAN CPU CHARMER: The Orbs Are Back 114 comments
In addition to plenty of information and meetings with manufacturer representatives, a trade show like Computex always has surprises ready. This year, too, the editorial team at the Zalman booth spotted the return of CPU coolers in the iconic orb design.
Round cooler with a nostalgia effect
Zalman’s CNPS series coolers were widespread between 2000 and 2010 and are particularly known for their striking, round designs. While the CNPS 7000 was still a blue, radially frozen cooler, the CNPS 9500 ushered in the era of iconic orb designs. Its successor, the CNPS 9700, probably left the most lasting impression. Since 2010, it has been slowly eluding the public: the CNPS 9800 and CNPS 9900 Max were the last CPU coolers in the ORB design. And even though the model in the PC base test knew how to convince, the era of the tower cooler had undoubtedly begun.
Orbs are back!
The return of the Orbs is all the more surprising as it’s part of Computex 2025. Zalman is presenting various CPU coolers in designs that match its status. The new ZET series is available in three models. All coolers are compatible with AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms; Intel‘s compatibility even extends from the current LGA 1851 socket to the LGA 115X platform.
The ZET3 compact is the start, most reminiscent of latter-day classics in terms of design. Zalman himself writes that the design is inspired by the CNPS 9800 Max. The cooler should be able to dissipate up to 150 watts from the CPU, and the radially arranged cooling fins should also cool the surrounding main board components. The 120mm PWM fan can reach up to 2000 RPM.
Zalman Zet3
The next model is the ZET4. This is already a classic torpower cooler which is hidden by the manufacturer in a round cover. The cooler is already much more massive than its little brother, and also has an illuminated fan with an LED ring and a magnetic one. A special output feature of the ZET4 is a removable LC screen to display system information. The TDP rating reaches 180 watts, the standard range of the fan is between 600 and 2000 revolutions.
Zalman Zet4 Image 1 of 2
The largest variant, the ZET5, loses the screen, but in return has two fans. These are held magnetically and provide electricity via Pogo pins. According to Zalman, the design is inspired by the “discs of an airplane.” According to the datasheet, the ZET5 can charge up to 200 watts.
Zalman Zet5 Image 1 of 2
Pricing and availability
The new ZET series CPU coolers are expected to reach the market from July. Zalman calls prices around $50 for the ZET3, US$75 for the ZET4 and almost $100 for the ZET5. The coolers will start globally and availability is expected in 40 countries. Aquatuning would appear as a distributor in Germany.
Topics: Computex 2025 Zalman cooling
A cooling systems specialist, Sophie helps enthusiasts optimise their setups with watercooling.
