Testing
The following system was used to test the SSD
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– RAM: Neo Forza Faye DDR4 64GB 3600MHz
– GPU: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial P2 500GB
– Mass Storage: Neo Forza NFP075 2TB
– CPU Cooler: SilverStone Permafrost PF240-ARGB
– PSU: Seasonic Snow Silent 750W Platinum
– Case: be quiet! Silent Base 802 White
The installation process with the Akasa Gecko Pro is simple as the mounting system has only two components, the brackets. You remove the four Phillips screws and remove the brackets from the hteasink, then place the heatsink over the SSD and secure the heatsink in place with the brackets. That’s it.
SSD Temperature
Final thoughts
The Akasa Gecko Pro is a simple M.2 SSD heatsink that does its job with no added complications. While other SSD heatsinks are trying to include RGB LEDs and unique designs, the Gecko Pro has a simple design with no RGB and no LEDs.
The build quality of this M.2 SSD heatsink is great, as the heatsink is made from a solid piece of metal. The mounting system is simple to use and understand as it is composed out of two metal made mounting bars.
In terms of the performance, with the Gecko Pro, the SSD temperature was reduced by 6°C, which is impressive for such a simple heatsink. While other heatsinks might be better, those often use a heatpipe to increase the heat dissipation.
Available for under 10 USD, the Akasa Gecko Pro is a good choice for a regular M.2 SSD. However, it has its shortcomings, one of them being the lack of a backplate and thus, the lack of cooling for the underside of the SSD. While cheap, I believe that a small backplate with a thermal pad would have made some difference temperature wise.
In conclusion, the Akasa Gecko Pro is a good M.2 SSD heatsink that does its job and looks good. The simple design and mounting system make this heatsink a good choice for a regular gaming system. The only drawback of this heatsink is the lack of a backplate which is useful esepcally for double sided M.2 SSDs.
