Build: i9-9900k, Vega 56 Pulse, 32GB 3000MHz TridentZ, Gigabyte Z390 Designare
I went with this cooler for my first ever personal build. I've always built PCs for other people but never for my own, being a Mac-main user. I finally decided on a Hackintosh/Win10 build after seeing a guide on Tony86 and copied most of the build except for the GPU and CPU.
Using an NZXT H500 Case, this AIO did not fit... I was SO upset. But I was determined to build the PC THAT weekend no matter what it took. So I removed the case radiator bracket and used a Dremel to remove the lip on top that restricted the radiator from fitting. Although this did cause the front case I/O ports to angle a bit due to a tight fit, I didn't care. I ended up getting it to fit better than I had initially thought possible... I made it a PUSH AND PULL radiator, using the NZXT case fans in the front, then Corsair LL fans in the back. (Outside > NZXT Fans > Radiator > LL Fans > Inside). Some may think, WHY? But I'll tell you why... After all the games I have run so far, the CPU has not gotten above 45 degrees. Even under load for video editing. It's nuts! On top of everything, it's silent.
Pros:
-Very effective at cooling, under 45 at all times with 9900k
-EPIC RGB CPU cover
-No leaking so far at all
-Easy to follow instructions
-All hardware included
Cons:
-The RGB cover is not addressable in iCUE. Not sure if that's because the USB header runs through an NZXT header hub... but the connection IS recognized in macOS and Windows inside settings. Very odd... But no biggie because the default rainbow is awesome imo.
-The MicroUSB along the side of the CPU cover seems very clunky and annoying, standing out. I wish they would've designed the USB interface to be pre-installed and thinner, harder for the eye to see.
Summary:
I would totally buy this again for another build, just maybe a 3x120 instead of the 2x140, and with a bigger case, maybe the H700. Even with the CPU block RGB issues, I don't regret this purchase AT ALL. It's great, it's cool, and it's COOL. Get it? Cool and Cool?
| Product Dimensions | 18.66"L x 5.75"W x 7.28"H |
|---|---|
| Brand | Corsair |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Noise Level | 25 dB |
| Material | Copper |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2400 RPM |
| Wireless Type | Bluetooth |
