Akasa Newton V Review

Performance Analysis

Our Prime95 test loads all four cores of the Core i5-3427U (two physical, two logical), which isn't something you'll likely do in a typical Intel NUC scenario as an office PC or HTPC. Even so, the Newton V managed to keep the temperatures in check both when out in the open where it was able to get rid of the heat a little more easily using its passive radiator, and enclosed in our TV cabinet.

For the latter, the delta T of 58°C from an ambient air temperature of 24°C saw the core temp top out at 72°C - not amazingly cool but far from being an issue either. However, the case itself, that clearly does a pretty good job of getting the heat from the CPU to the outside of the case, was extremely warm so you definitely don't want anything sitting on top of it.


Out in the open the delta T dropped 8°C in the same test, suggesting that while beneficial it is far from essential to clutter your TV cabinet top with the Newton V. Switching to our Netflix HD video streaming test, the delta T was a far more reasonable 37°C when enclosed, falling further still to 30°C when out in the open. The case was noticeably cooler here too and actually cooled quite rapidly once the load was taken off the CPU.

Conclusion

Intel clearly hasn't given up on NUC despite somewhat lacklustre press coverage and sales figures, and the introduction of Core i5-equipped boards (albeit slower, low power variants of the CPUs we use in our desktops) with USB 3.0 too is definitely a move in the right direction. The Newton V's asking price of less than £50 means that for £10-20 more than the Intel NUC board plus case bundle, you're getting a vastly superior case that has the massive advantage of being silent.


Also, by doing away with the fan, there are no moving parts, meaning the resulting PC will be fairly hardy and maintenance-free. Combined with epic build quality and good cooling, even in enclosed spaces, we can thoroughly recommend the Newton V if you're in the market for one of Intel's new NUC motherboards.