Comparing the Next Best AiO with the Kraken X62 (i7-7700K)
Comparing the Next Best AiO with the Kraken X62 (i7-7700K)
Chugalug_:
The NH-D15 is significantly overpriced. If opting for air cooling, the Cryorig H5 Universal offers the best value. The new Fractal Celsius coolers are top quality as well. It's worth noting that Noctua is likely the most expensive high-end air cooler and remains much cheaper than any 240 AiO model. Concerning the Fractal Celsius, it seems to be just another mediocre option compared to what I previously discussed. The main distinction is that you can detach the tubes from the radiator, wow...
It's really affordable at $110 with a sleek and modern look.
Another choice could be an EK Predator or a Swiftech AIO, though they cost more for little benefit.
If this remains uncertain.
I would choose a hybrid cooler from cryorig, such as the A40 Ultimate or A80.
Chugalug_ :
It's just great value for money at $110 with a rad and clean aesthetic.
http://www.guru3d.com/index.php?ct=artic...e&id=31216
Other option is an EK Predator or a Swiftech AIO, but they're expensive for minimal gain.
I see 0 value in 30-50$ premium for the same performance with less reliability
EK and Swiftech are in a different class of products - they are pre assembled custom loops, not really AiOs.
If to go for a value in liquid world, https://www.ekfluidgaming.com/ is probably the best.
Chugalug_:
Nah, they don't cool very well.
nonsense.
Here are the links:
http://i.imgur.com/Kgmkgke.png
http://i.imgur.com/2dw0GQO.png
I didn't find a direct comparison, but both images show it. The h110I is superior to the kraken, and in picture 1 we can see that the cryorig a40 ultimate and a80 outperform the h110.
It's also quieter.
Chugalug_ :
Seems quite stylish.
😉
It's true that AIOs are mainly for show, isn't it?
^ This... I have to admit it, a little embarrassingly so LOL
I really like the look of an AIO more than an air cooler.
I just don't like having a big heatsink in the middle of my setup.
As long as it keeps things cool well, I always choose an AIO
Chugalug_:
Seems quite impressive.
😉
Actually, AIOs are mainly for casual use isn't it?
No, those are kits—you need to put them together and fill the loop.
@superninja12
The main distinction between new Corsair and NZXT AiOs (skip the fancy RGB) is the fans included. Both use Aetek's rads and Gen 4.5-5 pumps with identical cold plates and liquid inside.
That applies to the rest of Aetek rebrands too, except for those choosing older or non-PWM pumps to cut costs.
In practice, a user shouldn't really focus on performance at maximum fan speed—it gets very noisy.
A sealed case on the desk is acceptable if the fans spin up to about 1400 RPM during gaming or with headphones. Ideally, aim for 900-1100 RPM.
The screenshots you shared indicate only a 1°C difference—no noticeable variation. Honestly, few reviewers test accurately. It's extremely challenging to achieve consistent, repeatable heat output on a real CPU. Besides, room temperature changes don't linearly affect the results. You can dive into thermodynamics or discuss with Rubix, but that's outside this topic. Anything within 3-5°C is essentially the same performance.
Corsair's AiOs are so popular thanks to strong marketing and wide availability. From a performance standpoint, they're far from the best in terms of noise versus performance, and even not among the top absolute performers in their category.