Prolimatech's Black Series Genesis CPU cooler is definitely unique in more than a few ways. Its unique design allows it to not only offer good cooling performance on my Haswell test system - it also cools VRM and system memory and even has the clearance for taller memory modules, which is a nice change as most heavyweight coolers usually require enthusiasts to make use of standard height memory while doing so. Memory modules of around 50 mm in height will, in fact, have no problems fitting into the likes of my motherboard as even a bit more space remains. Prolimatech's instructions are also easy to follow, and its exceptional mounting hardware makes this CPU cooler a breeze to install. Being a high-end cooler, the Genesis also offers the ability for a third fan to be installed for further cooling performance. Prolimatech's packaging is above average. Where other manufacturers are cutting costs with sub-par packaging, the Black Series Genesis is well protected by foam inserts. There is, overall, a great deal to like here.

That said, room for improvement always exists. At $79.99, its price is high, especially considering no fans are included. Sure, many users may wish to use their own fans, but those that need to purchase them will pay another $20-40 more, driving overall cost into the $100-120 range at which far better options exist. The woes don't stop there: The cooler also blocks the first expansion slot on my Haswell test system, which can be problematic as it is often the primary PCIex16 slot. Clearance around the CPU socket is also generally lackluster with the heatsink extending over the ATX 24-pin power connector; while it does not block the connector off completely, it does make unplugging or plugging the ATX power connector in a pain once the cooler is installed.

My personal thoughts on the matter revolve around the lack of fans and their extra cost. Simply put, using cheap fans won't hurt performance, but noise levels may suffer. At $19.99, the fans Prolimatech provided for testing are expensive and require special fan clips to use. This not only jacks up the price, but also destroys this cooler's price to performance ratio. That said, this is not an issue if you already have fans as I only noticed a performance difference of around 1-2°C with 1000-1300 RPM fans. I am, overall, impressed by the design and what Prolimatech accomplished using it; however, including some fans would certainly go a long way in making this a far more competitive product.

Prolimatech's Black Series Genesis can be an exceptional performer that does more than cool the CPU - if you can pony up for some fans.