The computer cooling system takes care of everything at once. It directly affects your system’s performance and keeps it cool and silent.
There’s much to consider, including radiator size and case compatibility, cooling capacity, noise levels, value for money, dependability, and aesthetics. Your specific requirements should guide your decision.
I have thoroughly tested the following coolers, and it is one of my top picks. I’ve included solutions from a wide price range and functionality spectrum.
Find out what I think are the top selections by reading the reviews below!
1. Cooler Master ML240L
Important Specifications
- Cooling Method: Water
- Noise Level: 15 dB
- Maximum Rotational Speed: 1500 RPM
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What we like
- Reduced noise levels
- Reducing airflow resistance
- More efficient liquid exchange
- The blades increase heat exchange by 25%
Things to consider
- Slightly noisy
- Pump assembly required
Product highlights
The ML240L V2 comes with Cooler Master’s newest third-generation pump. It has larger chambers and more efficient liquid exchange between them.
Lengthening and curving the blades have improved the water flow and heat dissipation. The high liquid to surface area increases heat exchange by 25%, optimizing heat dissipation efficiency and reducing airflow resistance. The MasterLiquid ML240L V2 RGB reached 63 degrees Celsius during load testing.
Even when playing demanding games like Overwatch and Fallout 4, my CPU temperature seldom goes beyond 62 degrees Celsius, thanks to this cooler.
Even with a Hyper 212 Evo fitted, my Ryzen 9 5900x overheated as I resumed transcoding some videos. The ML240L V2 reduces the temperature from 78 degrees to 68 degrees.
It also reduced noise levels by using a new Tri-Phase motor equipped with a quiet driver. There is an improvement from 30 dBA to 27 dBA in noise levels.
However, the pump and block unit comes unassembled. So you’ll need to pick and install the appropriate mounting.
A few days of constant operation have shown that the cooler is reliable. While the CPU cooler is louder than my previous air cooling solution, it is still fully serviceable.
2. NZXT Kraken X53
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water
- Noise Level: 21 dB
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What we like
- Silent operation
- User-friendly program
- Appealing RGB color scheme
- More color customization choices
- Useful performance-boosting features
- No need for a separate fan controller or power supply
Things to consider
- The CAM software does not allow direct manipulation
Product highlights
The Kraken X series allows for granular customization to provide a smooth experience on your specific PC setup.
In addition to its many useful performance-boosting features, it also sports an aesthetically appealing RGB color scheme.
It operates silently and features completely adjustable RGB illumination. It comes with a new, more spacious infinity mirror ring LED and an RGB connection for more color customization choices.
A HUE-style RGB header comes in the AIO’s control unit, allowing users to plug in fans and RGB strips without needing a separate fan controller or power supply. It seems highly impressive and provides users with additional alternatives for lighting a structure with limited space.
In conclusion, the NZXT Kraken X73 is an excellent all-in-one (AIO) that provides superior cooling, is completely quiet, and looks beautiful.
The latest CAM program offers a user-friendly interface, a wealth of information, and settings for fine-tuning the program to the user’s specifications.
But, the CAM software does not allow direct manipulation of the fan curves and speeds, as with other X-series AIO coolers. However, such a feature is only available on the more costly Z-series coolers, in my opinion.
Anyway, this is a must-have for a particular category of PC builders. I would repurchase this without hesitation if I were to construct a new computer today.
3. DEEPCOOL Castle 360EX
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 5 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
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What we like
- Superb Performance
- Super easy installation
- Quality braided tubing
- Good-looking product.
Things to consider
- Not the top performance
Product highlights
If you need a 360mm CLC cooler, go beyond the Deepcool Castle 360EX. It features a 360mm radiator with three non-RGB TF120S fans optimized for the radiator’s environment.
More importantly, the radiator incorporates DeepCool’s Anti-Leak technology.
EPDM pressure relief bags contract as the pressure within the radiator increases, creating a space that allows the pressure to escape.
The setup process for AM4 motherboards is straightforward. The pump’s mounting brackets are positioned on the motherboard at 360 degrees.
My CPU’s temperature stayed around 54 degrees Celsius and never exceeded 56 degrees throughout a 34-minute-and-counting AIDA64 Extreme benchmark stress test.
In general, the Deepcool Castle 360EX is my favorite all-in-one item. I can easily synchronize it with the Aura software on my ASUS X570 ROG Motherboard.
4. Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 360
Important Specifications
- Power Connector Type: 4-Pin
- Voltage: 5 Volts, 12 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water
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What we like
- Simple installation
- Swift screen
- Fantastic cooling performance
- Allows adjusting fan speed
Things to consider
- Slightly noisy
Product highlights
I decided to remove the cover and install the cooler. Installation was simple. Below the fan assembly, I attached the radiator to the metal support structure.
I overclocked it to 5.0 GHz at 1.330 volts. The temperatures range from 28 to 30 degrees Celsius when idling and reach a maximum of 68 degrees Celsius during intense gaming.
I’ve programmed a custom curve in the BIOS to regulate the fans’ speeds. The lowest fan speed is 40%, gradually increasing to 100% at 75 degrees Celsius.
Considering that the fans seldom go any faster than 40%, I tested their loudness by turning the volume up to around 75%, which is rather loud. Under PWM fan control, the noise was minimal at low speeds but became noticeable at heavy loads.
Some people may not like the fan noise produced when they require the fans to spin at high speeds to maintain a safe operating temperature. The Toughliquid Ultra 360 can cool the 5950X’s monstrous CPU.
However, my experience with the Toughliquid Ultra 360 is the first time I’ve seen an AIO with a swivel screen. It is fantastic since it implies that users will be able to install it in any direction.
In conclusion, the Toughliquid Ultra 360 has a fantastic cooling performance that is very quiet. It has an LCD that is rotatable and customizable.
5. MSI MAG CORELIQUID 360R
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Wattage: 4.08 watts
- Cooling Method: Water
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What we like
- Low price
- Low and stable fan speed
- Use software to adjust the light separately
Things to consider
- Slightly noisy
Product highlights
Several unique qualities are exclusive to the MSI MAG CoreLiquid series.
For example, I may adjust the MSI’s MAG CoreLiquid 360R’s RGB lighting in two distinct areas: the main body of the case and the fans.
You may manage the motherboard’s RGB lighting effects using software like MSI’s Mystic Light or an RGB HUB connected to the 3-pin 5v ARG header.
However, I suppose you intend on using the MAG CoreLiquid with an older motherboard that doesn’t have ARGB connections.
In that case, the RGB capabilities won’t operate right out of the box since the cooler doesn’t come with a separate RGB hub.
The MSI MAG 360mm radiator and cooler have kept my AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU at a comfortable 67 degrees Celsius. That happened during a 4K 60 FPS pixel data reconstruction operation in Adobe After Effects.
Keeping the CPU below 70 degree Celsius under demand, the high load is impressive. The fans, thankfully, maintain a very constant, low speed during these transformations.
Though it may seem like a high-end cooler, it costs several hundred dollars. MSI’s backs up delivers solid performance for that price.
6. Thermaltake Floe DX
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water
- Noise Level: 26.2 dB
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What we like
- Sturdy construction
- Size to fit any CPU
- Uncomplicated installation
- Universally polarizing RGB lighting
Things to consider
- Using proprietary software
Product highlights
Regarding the cooler’s most distinctive feature, I must remark that the universally polarizing RGB lighting presents quite a pleasing appearance. However, my sole complaint is the software.
The hub of the software uses proprietary connections. It means you’re stuck with a single choice of RGB lighting.
Since PWM fan profiles and RGB synchronizing aren’t accessible via direct motherboard control, this issue becomes much more vexing.
While I’m not too fond of the software, I appreciate the unit’s sturdy construction. It has a satisfying weight to it, and I had no problems with its fit.
Installation was fast and uncomplicated because of the mounting hardware’s intuitive design. There are no noticeable issues with clearing the RAM or the graphics card.
I measured the decibel level with a Pyle PSPL25 sound level meter at a distance of 30 cm at 25%, 50%, and 100% fan speed. There is no difference in the RPM values between the fans’ 25%, 50%, and 100% sets.
The Thermaltake Floe DX 360 TT Premium Edition all-in-one liquid cooler is a beautiful piece of hardware. However, its steep asking price prevents it from living up to its potential.
7. ID-COOLING AURAFLOW X 240
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water
- Noise Level: 35.2 dB
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What we like
- Strong frames
- Affordable price
- Allow lighting control
- The Etched lining of each blade concentrates airflow
- Fans move an excellent 74.5 cubic feet of air per minute
Things to consider
- Slightly noisy
Product highlights
ID-COOLING has thoughtfully included two additional RGB fans with the cooler.
There are eleven see-through blades on each fan. I think that the etched lining of each blade improves concentrated airflow.
The manufacturer covered rubber tubing in a neutral gray sleeve. The soft material tubing is more flexible and less likely to cause kinking.
There are Hydraulic bearings within the included RGB fans. The blades and the fans’ frame are black, and the edges are relatively strong.
With a pressure rating of just 2.15 mm H2O, these fans move an excellent 74.5 cubic feet of air per minute (CFM). The maximum decibel reading is set at 35.
The problem is that these fans make a lot of noise when operating at maximum capacity. Modifying the fan curve will solve the problem.
The included controller is SATA-powered and has straightforward controls for loading lighting modes and adjusting the rate at which dynamic lighting modes cycle. All the buttons are flush with the controller’s surface, making them difficult to activate.
Affordably priced, the cooler delivers good performance and attractive, understated RGB lights.
8. Enermax Liqmax III 240 A-RGB
Important Specifications
- Power Connector Type: 4-Pin
- Voltage: 5 Volts
- Cooling Method: Water, Fan
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What we like
- Good price
- Need no upkeep
- High cooling capacity
- Compatible with older Intel sockets
- There is no sound coming from the bearings or the fan blades
Things to consider
- High cooling capacity
- Not available in 280mm
Product highlights
The Enermax Liqmax III 240 RGB is a whole setup that measures 240 mm. The pump and radiator, as typical, are linked to one another and need no upkeep.
Once you set up everything, you can forget about maintaining the water level. It uses proprietary shunt-channel technology, the pump’s central radiator intake, and a two-chamber design.
Due mainly to its relatively slow-spinning fans, the Enermax Liqmax is also quiet, so it is hardly audible outside of a closed system. The loudness of an adequately adjusted smartphone app is just 30 dBA, comparable to a human whisper.
While it’s not flawless, the 330 WATT cooling capacity and reasonable price make it a decent value.
Friction washers secure the mounting bracket to the wall. The top-side spacers double duty as friction sliders to hold the backplate during block installation.
A pump and radiator are factories installed, pressure checked, pre-filled, and sealed to provide years of trouble-free service. In addition to the newest Intel LGA 1155 and AMD AM3 sockets, it is also compatible with older Intel sockets for maximum compatibility and simplicity of usage.
The series comes with a high-density water microchannel and copper finish block to deliver effective thermal conduct and an Aluminum fin to optimize its cooling efficiency. You may replace fans with the typical built-in mounting holes.
To be honest, the LIQMAXX III ARGB is a real game-changer. A few hundred dollars will get you a product with respectable cooling efficiency.
9. EVGA CLC 360
Important Specifications
- Cooling Method: Water
- Noise Level: 16 dB
- Material: Copper
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What we like
- Low temperature
- Quiet activity
- Control software works correctly
Things to consider
- The pump’s USB cable attachment is small
Product highlights
My experience with the EVGA CLC 360 cooling module has been pleasant. My system CPU remains at 26 Celsius while leisurely surfing or viewing movies.
The temperature may rise to over 40 degrees Celsius when playing video games. A CPU temperature of 60 degrees Celsius is achievable under full load conditions, provided that the radiator and pump fans usually operate.
It doesn’t become noisy if the fans, in your case, are set up correctly. In IDLE mode, the noise level is undetectable.
Moreover, the control and monitoring software reacts accurately, enabling you to alter many real-time settings.
The only thing the manufacturer might improve is the pump’s small USB cable attachment, which may be awkward if the cabinet is too cramped. I’ve had no issues with it on my MSI TRX40 10G motherboard and AMD Threadripper 3960X.
10. ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240
Important Specifications
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Wattage: 1 watt
- Cooling Method: Water
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What we like
- Quiet operation
- Efficient cooling
- Built-in cable management
- Solid design
- Compatible with the newest Intel and AMD processors
Things to consider
- No RGB pump
- Thick radiator
Product highlights
In our preliminary base frequency test, the Liquid Freezer II showed impressive cooling performance. The CPU ran at 23 degrees Celsius while idle and 59 degrees Celsius when fully taxed.
It was one of the quietest coolers we’ve ever used, and it did a great job of keeping our CPU cool and under control. Its noise output was low, coming in at 32 dBA when not under load and 39 dBA while working hard.
The Liquid Freezer II 240 aRGB offers built-in cable management in the form of wholly sleeved tubes for a tidier appearance within your computer case.
The newest Intel and AMD processors and their respective sockets may be compatible with this cooler.
Overall, it’s a very efficient cooling system with a solid design. Since it works with the latest Alder Lake CPUs, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their computers.
Buying Guide: Things To Consider
If you’re interested in learning more, I’ve compiled a comprehensive purchasing guide for the best All-in-One coolers, which you can find here:
- Radiator Size:
The radiator size of your AIO cooler is the first thing to examine since a bigger radiator will often result in higher cooling performance.
For example, 360 mm or 280 mm, will do a better job of cooling your CPU than their smaller counterparts, 240 mm or 120 mm.
- Fan Speed:
You may check the AIO cooler’s fan speed to ensure it’s within the recommended range of 500 RPM to 1800 RPM.
A more excellent fan speed range will often provide better performance.
- Noise Levels
Though AIO coolers are much quieter than traditional air coolers, they still make a certain amount of noise.
The noise level rises even more when the pump operates at total capacity.
As a result, if you’re trying to construct a tranquil PC, it could be a good idea to investigate the operational noise levels of your cooler.
A noise level of 35 dB or 40 dB is noticeably quieter than a noise level of 50 dB.
- CPU Socket Compatibility
Attaching the cooler to the motherboard is necessary, as with any other CPU cooler.
However, you can only do this if your cooler suits your motherboard’s CPU socket. For that reason, ensure your cooler is compatible with your CPU.
- Warranty
It would help if you looked into the cooler’s warranty. While most budget AIO coolers only provide a 2- or 3-year guarantee, premium models may include a 5- or 6-year warranty.
FAQs
What is the most powerful AIO cooler?
With its massive 360mm radiator, the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD can cool even the hottest CPUs at extreme overclocks.
Is AIO cooler good for gaming?
AIO coolers don’t break the bank and can run most newer games at a playable frame rate. They are cooler and more adaptable to various cases, making them the superior choice overall.
Does Cooler Master make good AIO?
The Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L is a fantastic all-in-one (AIO) cooler at a low price. This 240mm liquid cooler from Cooler Master is an excellent choice if you need an affordable AIO cooler that will still look beautiful in your windowed case.
Do AIO coolers leak?
Leaks may occur in AIO Coolers after some time has passed. The liquid may leak if your rig suffers mechanical damage.
How big should my radiator be on a PC?
Best practices suggest installing one 120mm radiator for every water-cooled component plus one additional. We recommend using a 360mm radiator to liquid-cool a single high-performance graphics card and a CPU.
Final Thoughts
This post includes information on the greatest All-in-One coolers currently. If you’re still unsure about which AIO cooler to buy, however, try one of our top picks!
The NZXT Kraken X53 is my top pick due to its superior durability and high performance. In addition, it comes with a lengthy guarantee of 6 years, ensuring that you will spend your money well.
From my performance evaluations, the Toughliquid Ultra 360 consistently excelled. If you want the best for your computer, it’s well worth the price.
I hope you can pick the best one for you. Thank you for reading!