5 top cpu water coolers a comparative review
5 top cpu water coolers a comparative review

Hey there! We’re here to help you navigate the world of CPU AIO water coolers. These powerful cooling solutions have become increasingly popular among gamers and PC enthusiasts, allowing for better heat dissipation and overall performance. Today, we’ll be taking a closer look at four top contenders in this realm: the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB, the Redragon HL240 ARGB, the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB, and the Gelid Solutions Liquid 240. So, let’s dive in!

CPU AIO water coolers have come a long way since their inception. Initially, they were a niche product primarily used by overclockers and enthusiasts seeking extreme performance. However, as processors became more powerful, standard cooling solutions struggled to keep up. AIO water coolers emerged as a reliable option, offering improved thermals and quieter operation.

Owning a CPU AIO water cooler brings several benefits. Firstly, they provide superior cooling performance compared to traditional air coolers, ensuring your CPU stays within safe temperature limits even during intense gaming sessions or demanding tasks. Additionally, these all-in-one solutions boast easy installation, freeing you from the complex setup and maintenance that traditional custom liquid cooling systems often involve.

Now, we’ll turn our attention to each of the four products mentioned earlier. Throughout this article, we’ll examine their key features, specifications, compatibility, and overall performance. Whether you’re a PC gaming enthusiast or a professional content creator, we’ll help you find the perfect CPU AIO water cooler to keep your rig running smoothly. So, let’s get started!

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB – CPU Water Cooler with A-RGB, Pump Control, Fan Speed: 200-1900 RPM, LGA1700 Compatible – Black

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB - Multi-Compatible All-in-one CPU AIO Water Cooler with A-RGB, efficient PWM-Controlled Pump, Fan Speed: 200-1900 RPM, LGA1700 Compatible - Black

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The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB is a high-performance, all-in-one CPU water cooler suitable for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals who rely on their computer systems for resource-intensive tasks. This cooler is designed to efficiently dissipate heat from the CPU, ensuring optimal performance even during demanding tasks.

We are particularly impressed with the overall performance and compatibility of the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB. It is specifically designed to be compatible with Intel’s new Alder Lake processors, making it a future-proof investment for users planning to upgrade their CPU in the future.

The purpose of the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB is to provide efficient and effective cooling for your CPU. With a more efficient cold plate, proprietary pump, and fans optimized for static pressure, this water cooler outperforms other AiO coolers in its class. It effectively dissipates heat, allowing your CPU to operate at optimal temperatures, even during demanding tasks or overclocking.

One of the standout features of this cooler is the elegant illumination it offers. With 36 digital A-RGB LEDs placed along the fan hubs and a transparent rotor with a closed design, it provides even and rich illumination, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your build. Additionally, the integrated cable management system ensures a clean and clutter-free setup by minimizing visible cables.

The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB exemplifies exceptional quality. It has undergone extensive quality assurance and quality control measures, guaranteeing its reliability and durability. The addition of a QC sticker reassures users that this product has passed stringent tests, ensuring consistent performance and longevity.

  • LGA1700 Compatibility: This cooler is compatible with Intel’s LGA1700 socket, allowing users to easily install it on the latest Alder Lake processors.

  • Impressive Performance: The efficient cold plate, proprietary pump, and optimized fans make this cooler stand out from its competitors, offering excellent cooling performance.

  • Elegant Illumination: The 36 digital A-RGB LEDs and transparent rotor provide stunning and customizable illumination options, enhancing the visual appeal of your gaming rig or workstation.

  • Integrated Cable Management: The PWM and RGB cables of the radiator fans are cleverly concealed, resulting in a clean and organized setup.

  • Size Limitations: Due to the larger radiator size, users with limited space in their PC cases may face challenges with installation.

The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB is a top-notch CPU water cooler that offers outstanding performance, compatibility, and aesthetics. Its effective cooling capabilities and elegant illumination make it a popular choice among gamers and professionals. With its exceptional overall quality, this cooler is a reliable and durable solution for keeping your CPU cool, even during resource-intensive tasks.

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB - CPU Water Cooler with A-RGB, Pump Control, Fan Speed: 200-1900 RPM, LGA1700 Compatible - Black

Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler with High-Efficiency Radiator, Quiet Operation, Infinity Mirror Effect, 2 x 120mm RGB Fans, LGA 1700, AMD AM5 Ready

Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System, CPU Water Cooler w/ 3300 RPM High-Efficiency Radiator, 20 dBA Quiet, Groovy Infinity Mirror Effect, 2 x 120mm PWM RGB FDB Fans, LGA 1700, AMD AM5 Ready

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When it comes to finding the perfect CPU water cooler, there are several factors to consider. For the Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System, its primary use is to provide efficient cooling and heat dissipation for high-performance CPUs. Whether you are a professional gamer, content creator, or simply someone who requires their CPU to perform at its best, this water cooler is designed to meet your needs.

There are several reasons why we love the Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System. Firstly, its mighty but quiet pump delivers exceptional cooling performance while maintaining a low noise level. This means you can enjoy high-performance computing without the distraction of loud fan noises. Additionally, the FDB PWM fans with adjustable speed and stunning ARGB illumination not only ensure superior cooling efficiency but also provide visually striking RGB effects that elevate the aesthetics of your build.

We also appreciate the attention to detail in the design of this CPU water cooler. The ARGB addressable infinity mirror adds a groovy gaming vibe and allows for customization of the RGB backlighting to sync with most motherboards. This means you can create a personalized lighting setup that matches your unique style.

Furthermore, the Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System is incredibly easy to set up. With a single breakout cable between the cooler and motherboard, cable management becomes a breeze. The fully geared components ensure fast and hassle-free installation, making it compatible with both Intel and AMD motherboard platforms.

Lastly, the confidence that Redragon has in the quality of this product is evident in its 5-year covered warranty, which even includes protection against liquid leakage. This level of warranty coverage is rare in the industry and showcases Redragon’s commitment to providing durable and reliable cooling solutions. Additionally, their 24/7 support ensures that any questions or concerns you may have will be promptly addressed.

The Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System is specifically designed to provide efficient and effective cooling for high-performance CPUs. It features a powerful and quiet pump, FDB PWM fans with adjustable speed and ARGB illumination, and an ARGB addressable infinity mirror for customizable lighting effects. With its easy setup and broad compatibility, this CPU water cooler caters to both Intel and AMD motherboard platforms. Additionally, the 5-year warranty, including coverage for liquid leakage, provides peace of mind and reassurance of the product’s reliability.

We are highly impressed with the overall quality of the Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System. It excels in both performance and aesthetics, providing efficient cooling while adding a visually stunning element to your build. The high-torque motor and ceramic-bearing hardcore FDB pump ensure exceptional cooling performance, while the ARGB illumination and infinity mirror create a captivating visual display. The construction and design of this water cooler demonstrate Redragon’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.

  • Mighty but quiet pump for exceptional cooling performance

  • FDB PWM fans with adjustable speed and stunning ARGB illumination

  • ARGB addressable infinity mirror for customizable lighting effects

  • Easy setup and broad compatibility with Intel and AMD motherboard platforms

  • 5-year warranty, including coverage for liquid leakage, provides peace of mind

  • Some users may find the installation process slightly challenging

The Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System is a top-tier CPU water cooler that excels in both performance and aesthetics. Its powerful yet quiet pump, adjustable speed FDB PWM fans, and customizable lighting effects make it a standout choice for those in need of efficient cooling for their high-performance CPUs. With its easy setup and broad compatibility, this water cooler is a reliable and visually captivating addition to any build.

Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler with High-Efficiency Radiator, Quiet Operation, Infinity Mirror Effect, 2 x 120mm RGB Fans, LGA 1700, AMD AM5 Ready

Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler,Efficient PWM Controlled Pump 3300RPM,2×TL-E12 Series PWM Fan,Water Cooling Computer Parts,for AMD AM4/AM5,Intel 1150/1156/1200/1700/2011

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The Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is designed to provide efficient cooling for CPUs. It is compatible with both AMD and Intel platforms, making it suitable for a wide range of users.

We are impressed by the unique pump design of the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler. The pump body, featuring a magnetic removable top cover, not only enhances the visual appeal of the cooler with its sleek octagonal appearance but also ensures low vibration operation. Additionally, the all-aluminum alloy shell and 5V ARGB lighting effects create a stunning visual experience.

The purpose of the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is to effectively cool CPUs, ensuring optimal performance. Its key features include a fourth-generation pump body architecture, a pump speed of up to 3300RPM, and a water block lifespan of up to 40,000 hours. These features guarantee long-term and excellent CPU cooling. Furthermore, the ARGB lighting synchronization capability adds a vibrant touch to the cooler, allowing users to enjoy both efficient cooling and rich lighting effects.

The overall quality of the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is exceptional. Its high-speed operation, combined with the CPU water radiator, effectively dissipates heat, preventing the CPU from overheating. Additionally, the dual PWM fan temperature control function enables automatic speed adjustment based on the CPU temperature, ensuring efficient cooling when needed. The use of TL-E12 series fans with S-FDB bearings further reduces friction, vibration, and noise, enhancing the cooler’s performance and longevity.

Some of the notable pros of the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler include its unique pump design, impressive lighting synchronization capability, and high compatibility with various CPU platforms. The sleek appearance and sturdy construction of the cooler also add to its overall appeal.

However, it is important to note that the installation process may require some attention to detail, especially for users who are new to CPU liquid coolers. While the installation video provided with the cooler helps to simplify the process, it may still pose a slight challenge for beginners.

The pros of the Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler outweigh its cons, making it an excellent choice for users who value efficient cooling, visual aesthetics, and compatibility.

The Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler stands out among its competitors with its unique pump design, impressive RGB lighting synchronization, and efficient cooling performance. With its high-quality construction, this CPU cooler offers great value for users looking to optimize their CPU’s performance while adding a touch of visual appeal.

Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 Water Cooler with RGB Fan and Thermal Paste

Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 – All-in-One CPU AIO Water Cooler with 2X 120mm RGB Fan, 750-1800 RPM, AM5 and LGA 1700 Compatible, Includes GC4 Thermal Paste

This image is property of Amazon.com.

The Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 is an all-in-one CPU AIO water cooler that is designed to provide high-performance liquid cooling for your processor. It is suitable for gamers, overclockers, and PC enthusiasts who require optimal cooling during demanding tasks and activities.

We are impressed with the exceptional performance of the Gelid Solutions Liquid 240. It effectively keeps the processor at optimal temperatures, even during high-load scenarios. This is crucial for maintaining the stability and longevity of the CPU.

The Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 is specifically designed to deliver advanced liquid cooling for CPUs. It comes equipped with 2 powerful 120mm fans that ensure a constant airflow and adequate static pressure for effective cooling. The fan design minimizes noise, providing quiet operation, which is a significant advantage for users who prioritize a peaceful computing experience.

One of the standout features of this water cooler is its easy installation process. It includes a universal mounting kit compatible with most CPU sockets, making it hassle-free to install in different systems. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced PC builder, the Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 allows for quick and straightforward installation.

The high-quality tubes of the Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 are made with premium materials, ensuring optimal heat transfer and exceptional durability. These flexible tubes allow for easy routing and placement of the radiator within the computer chassis, optimizing space utilization.

Additionally, the Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 features built-in customizable RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic touch to your system. Users have the freedom to customize the lighting effects using software or synchronize it with other compatible devices, creating a visually stunning atmosphere in their computer setup.

The Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 showcases exceptional quality in terms of performance, ease of installation, and durability. The high-quality materials used in the construction of the cooling tubes ensure optimal heat transfer, while the powerful fans guarantee effective cooling. This all-in-one water cooler is carefully designed to deliver superior performance and provide users with peace of mind.

  • High-performance liquid cooling

  • Powerful and efficient fan design

  • Easy and quick installation process

  • High-quality and durable cooling tubes

  • Customizable RGB lighting for aesthetic appeal

  • May not be suitable for smaller computer chassis

  • Limited compatibility with certain CPU sockets

The Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 is an outstanding all-in-one CPU water cooler that offers high-performance liquid cooling, easy installation, and customizable RGB lighting. While it may not be suitable for smaller computer chassis and has limited compatibility with certain CPU sockets, its overall quality and performance make it an excellent choice for gamers, overclockers, and PC enthusiasts seeking optimal cooling for their processors.

Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 Water Cooler with RGB Fan and Thermal Paste

Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler,Efficient PWM Controlled Pump 3300RPM,3×TL-E12 Series PWM Fan,Water Cooling Computer Parts,for AMD AM4/AM5,Intel 1150/1156/1200/1700/2011

This image is property of Amazon.com.

The Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is designed for cooling computer CPUs. It is compatible with both AMD and Intel platforms, including AM4, AM5, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2011-V3, 2066, and 1700.

We are impressed with the unique pump design of the Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler. The fourth generation pump body features a magnetic removable top cover, an all-aluminum alloy shell, and a sleek octagonal appearance. Not only does it provide excellent long-term cooling performance with a pump speed of up to 3300RPM, but it also adds a visually stunning touch to any computer setup with its 5V ARGB lighting effects.

The purpose of the Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is to efficiently cool computer CPUs while providing an aesthetically pleasing lighting effect. The pump’s design ensures low vibration operation and a long lifespan of up to 40,000 hours.

One key feature we appreciate is the ARGB God Light Synchronization, which allows the CPU fan, water block, and the 5V 3pin on the motherboard to synchronize their lighting effects. With 1600W color soft light effect, this cooler not only provides efficient cooling but also enhances the overall visual appeal of the computer.

The Dual PWM fan temperature control is another notable feature. The TL-E12 series fan automatically adjusts its speed according to the CPU temperature. The steel core copper bushing and S-FDB bearing of the fan minimize friction, vibration, and noise, ensuring a longer lifespan during operation. The high fan speed of 1850RPM, combined with the CPU water radiator, effectively dissipates high temperatures.

This product also excels in cooling details optimization. The fan of the integrated CPU liquid cooler is made of insulation grade PBT+PC material, which reduces fan blade shaking. The Y-type configuration, with one end being 3pin and the other end being 4pin, allows for easy installation.

The Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler exhibits excellent overall quality. From its durable construction to its efficient cooling capabilities, this cooler stands out among its competitors. The all-aluminum alloy shell of the pump body and the high-quality components contribute to its reliability and longevity.

Furthermore, the synchronization of the lighting effects and the fan speed control based on CPU temperature showcase the attention to detail and thoughtful design that went into creating this product.

Pros:

  • Unique and visually appealing design with 5V ARGB lighting effects
  • Efficient cooling performance with a pump speed of up to 3300RPM
  • Long lifespan of up to 40,000 hours
  • Dual PWM fan temperature control for optimal cooling
  • High compatibility with various CPU platforms

Cons:

  • May be slightly more expensive compared to other CPU water coolers on the market
  • Installation may require following the installation video for proper setup

The Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler is a top contender among CPU water coolers. Its unique design, efficient cooling performance, and impressive lighting effects make it a great choice for both high-performance computers and those looking to add a stylish touch to their setups. With its overall quality and range of features, this cooler is a solid investment for anyone in need of reliable CPU cooling.

Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

Overview

In this comparison section, we will be looking at five different liquid coolers: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB, Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System, Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler, Gelid Solutions Liquid 240, and Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler. We will discuss the specifications of each cooler and create a table for visualization.

Specifications

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB

  • Fan Speed: 200-1900 RPM
  • LGA1700 Compatibility: Yes
  • A-RGB Illumination: Yes
  • Cable Management: Integrated

Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System

  • Fan Speed: 3300 RPM
  • LGA1700 Compatibility: Yes
  • A-RGB Illumination: Yes
  • Cable Management: Simple Setup To Go

Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

  • Fan Speed: 3300 RPM
  • LGA1700 Compatibility: Yes
  • A-RGB Illumination: Yes
  • Cable Management: Integrated

Gelid Solutions Liquid 240

  • Fan Speed: 750-1800 RPM
  • LGA1700 Compatibility: Yes
  • A-RGB Illumination: Yes
  • Cable Management: Not specified

Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler

  • Fan Speed: 3300 RPM
  • LGA1700 Compatibility: Yes
  • A-RGB Illumination: Yes
  • Cable Management: Integrated

Comparison Table

Fan Speed Range LGA1700 Compatibility A-RGB Illumination Cable Management
Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB 200-1900 RPM Yes Yes Integrated
Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System 3300 RPM Yes Yes Simple Setup To Go
Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler 3300 RPM Yes Yes Integrated
Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 750-1800 RPM Yes Yes Not specified
Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler 3300 RPM Yes Yes Integrated

Note: All coolers are compatible with the AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel 1150/1156/1200/1700/2011 platforms.

Based on the specifications provided, each cooler offers its unique features. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB and Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler have a fan speed range of 200-1900 RPM, while the Redragon HL240 ARGB Liquid Cooling System, Gelid Solutions Liquid 240, and Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler have a fan speed of 3300 RPM.

All coolers are compatible with the LGA1700 socket and offer A-RGB illumination. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB, Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler, and Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler have integrated cable management, ensuring a clean and organized setup.

Each cooler has its advantages and features that cater to different needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as fan speed, compatibility, A-RGB illumination, and cable management when choosing the right liquid cooler for your CPU.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have reviewed five different CPU water coolers: the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB, Redragon HL240 ARGB, Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB, Gelid Solutions Liquid 240, and Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB. Each cooler offers its own unique features and advantages, catering to different needs and preferences.

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB

The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420 A-RGB stands out with its multi-compatibility and efficient PWM-controlled pump. It boasts a wide fan speed range of 200-1900 RPM and is compatible with the LGA1700 socket. However, some users may find the black and red color scheme less appealing.

Redragon HL240 ARGB

The Redragon HL240 ARGB impresses with its high-efficiency radiator and quiet operation at only 20 dBA. Its groovy infinity mirror effect adds a stylish touch to any build. The cooler is also specifically designed for LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 compatibility. However, the limited maximum fan speed of 3300 RPM may not satisfy users looking for extreme cooling performance.

Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB

The Thermalright Frozen Prism 240 Black ARGB offers an efficient PWM-controlled pump and two TL-E12 Series PWM fans. It supports various CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel 1150/1156/1200/1700/2011. However, the lack of detailed information regarding the noise level and fan speed may deter potential buyers.

Gelid Solutions Liquid 240

The Gelid Solutions Liquid 240 is an all-in-one CPU AIO water cooler that comes with two 120mm RGB fans. With a fan speed range of 750-1800 RPM, it provides a good balance between performance and noise. AM5 and LGA 1700 compatibility make it a suitable option for users with the latest CPU sockets. It even includes GC4 Thermal Paste for easy installation. However, some users may find the limited RGB options and absence of advanced features disappointing.

Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB

The Thermalright Frozen Prism360 Black ARGB offers a larger radiator and three TL-E12 Series PWM fans for enhanced cooling capacity. It shares the same efficient PWM-controlled pump design as its 240mm counterpart. Similarly, it supports a wide range of CPU sockets. However, like its smaller sibling, the lack of detailed specs may hinder prospective buyers.

Considering the reviewed products, our top recommendation for those seeking a balance between performance, durability, and visual aesthetics is the Redragon HL240 ARGB. Its high-efficiency radiator, quiet operation, and groovy infinity mirror effect make it an excellent choice for gamers and enthusiasts who value both cooling performance and style.

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Sam Cox
Hi, I'm Sam Cox! I'm an experienced computer and gaming enthusiast passionate about helping others get the most out of their tech. a Tech expert and your go-to source for all tech tips at The Computer Geeks. With years of experience in the industry, I bring extensive knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of technology. I have a passion for simplifying complex concepts and finding creative solutions, making your tech journey both enlightening and enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned tech enthusiast or a beginner looking for guidance, I am here to provide you with valuable insights, tutorials, and practical tips to enhance your digital experience.