Scythe Big Shuriken 4 specifications and in-depth review

Scythe Big Shuriken 4

Manufacturer: Scythe

The Scythe Big Shuriken 4 is a compact air CPU cooler designed for systems where vertical clearance is limited. Its 67 mm heatsink height keeps the overall footprint low while the 120 mm wide heatsink spreads heat across a reasonable surface area. The cooler ships with thermal paste included and uses fluid dynamic bearings on its single fan, contributing to smoother and quieter operation over time.

On the performance side, the fan reaches a maximum speed of 1900 rpm, delivering up to 51.98 CFM of airflow. Audible noise ranges from 1.8 dB at the low end to 31.78 dB at full speed. The unit weighs 480 g and carries a 2-year warranty. Socket compatibility covers a broad range including LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM4, and AM5, making it suitable for both current and recent-generation platforms. No RGB lighting or display features are present.

Pros
  • The 67 mm heatsink height makes it well-suited for compact builds where taller coolers would not fit
  • Supports a broad range of sockets covering multiple Intel and AMD generations, including AM5 and LGA 1700
  • Fluid dynamic bearings on the fan contribute to smoother and quieter operation over its lifespan
  • Thermal paste is included in the package, allowing immediate installation without additional purchases
  • Minimum noise level of 1.8 dB means the cooler runs nearly silently under light loads
Cons
  • With only one fan and a low-profile design, thermal headroom is limited compared to larger cooling solutions
  • Maximum noise output of 31.78 dB at full fan speed may be noticeable in quiet environments
  • The absence of RGB lighting offers no visual customization for builds where aesthetics are a priority
  • A 2-year warranty period is relatively short for a cooling component intended for long-term use
Who is this for?

This cooler is a practical choice for users building small form factor or compact systems where vertical clearance inside the case is tight, given its 67 mm heatsink height. Its broad socket support across both Intel and AMD platforms makes it a reliable fit for builders working with current-generation CPUs on AM5 or LGA 1700. The near-silent minimum noise level also suits those assembling a quiet home or office machine where low acoustic output during everyday workloads is a priority.

Who is this NOT for?

Users running thermally demanding workloads such as sustained CPU-intensive tasks or overclocking will likely find that a single low-profile fan and compact heatsink do not provide adequate thermal headroom. The design also does not suit builders who prioritize visual customization, as there is no RGB lighting or display of any kind. Additionally, those seeking a long-term warranty for a core system component may find the 2-year coverage period insufficient for their needs.

Cooling:

Cooling type Air
Max fan RPM 1900 rpm
Max airflow 51.98 CFM
Number of fans 1

The cooling system relies on air cooling with a single fan that reaches a maximum speed of 1900 rpm, generating up to 51.98 CFM of airflow. This setup keeps the configuration straightforward, with one fan handling all active airflow through the heatsink.

Dimensions:

Heatsink/water block height 67 mm
Heatsink/water block width 120 mm
Heatsink/water block depth 122 mm

The heatsink measures 67 mm in height, 120 mm in width, and 122 mm in depth, giving it a low-profile and nearly square footprint. The limited height is the most notable dimensional characteristic, as it directly affects compatibility with space-constrained builds.

General info:

CPU socket LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, AM4, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, AM5, LGA 1700
Audible noise (min) 1.8 dB
Audible noise (max) 31.78 dB
weight 480 g
warranty period 2 years

This cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM4, and AM5, covering both Intel and AMD platforms across several generations. Audible noise ranges from 1.8 dB at its quietest to 31.78 dB at full load, offering relatively low noise output during light use. The unit weighs 480 g and comes with a 2-year warranty.

Features:

Fan bearings Fluid dynamic bearings
has RGB lighting
Thermal paste Included
Has a display

The fan uses fluid dynamic bearings, a bearing type generally associated with smoother rotation and reduced friction over time. Thermal paste is included in the package, so no separate purchase is required before installation. The cooler does not feature RGB lighting or a display, keeping the aesthetic straightforward and focused purely on function.

Final Verdict

The Scythe Big Shuriken 4 is a purpose-built air CPU cooler that delivers where its design intends — in compact systems that demand a low 67 mm profile without sacrificing broad platform compatibility across both current Intel and AMD sockets. Its fluid dynamic bearing fan, near-silent minimum noise output, and included thermal paste round out a practical, no-frills package. The trade-off is clear: thermal capacity and acoustic performance at full load are constrained by the form factor, making this a cooler best matched to light-to-moderate workloads rather than sustained high-demand tasks. For builders prioritizing space efficiency and quiet everyday operation over maximum cooling headroom, the Big Shuriken 4 presents a well-defined and coherent solution.