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Best 280mm AIO Cooler 2024

Corsair iCUE H115i RGB PRO XT 280mm Radiator

Corsair iCUE H115i RGB Pro XT,...
  • Magnetic Levitation Fans: Two 140mm CORSAIR ML Series fans deliver improved airflow for extreme CPU...
  • Dynamic Multi-Zone RGB Pump Head: 16 Individually addressable RGB LEDs light up the pump head to produce...
  • Extreme CPU Cooling: Experience incredible cooling performance, with each fan running from 400 to 2,000...

Corsair iCUE H115i offers pretty much everything you could want in an AIO: it works with either Intel or AMD’s newest CPU sockets, it has high-performance fans, it runs very quietly in most circumstances, and it comes with a very substantial warranty.

Corsair H115i is the company’s top-of-the-line 280mm AIO. It was modified late last year with a new pump and pump head design, as well as a pair of Corsair SP140L fans. This AIO is among the quietest on the market, according to testing. The fans are PWM controlled, allowing you to exactly build a fan curve that meets your needs. The RGB is controlled by Corsair’s iCue software, which also enables temperature monitoring and a plethora of customisation possibilities, such as linking the cooler RGB color to CPU or water temperatures. This is a low-profile, high-quality AIO that will blend in with other Corsair components or just keep noise to a minimum if that is your objective.

The Corsair iCUE H115i is equipped with Corsair’s ML140 PWM fans, which can reach maximum speeds of up to 2000 RPM or be dialed all the way down to zero RPM when temperatures are low, thereby reducing noise. In terms of noise, the ML140 fans have a noise level range of 10-36 dBA, making the iCUE H115i the quietest AIO cooler on this list.

Corsair’s iCue software is also used by the Corsair iCUE H115i RGB Pro XT. The software allows you to regulate the fan and pump speeds, RGB light settings, and obtain a real-time temperature measurement for this AIO. Its inclusion is a wonderful sight, as iCue is one of the best cooler management programs available. The H115i’s build quality is superb. Its hoses are sleeved in nylon, which not only looks excellent but also extends their life. This AIO’s tiny radiator, which is only 27mm thick, is one of its distinguishing features.

Most AIO radiators are roughly 30mm thick, however Corsair achieves such a small design by loading the radiator with an astonishing 20 fins per square inch, which is far higher than a typical radiator. Corsair’s dedication to excellence is clear in this cooler’s features and advancements. This Corsair AIO CPU cooler is compatible with almost every current socket. It works with the Intel 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, and 2066 processors. Furthermore, it will communicate with AMD AM4, AM3, AM2, sTRX4, and sTR4.

Corsair iCUE H115i is one of the Best 280mm AIO Coolers in 2023

NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm

NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm -...
  • With a bright, 2.36” LCD screen capable of displaying 24-bit color, you can now completely customize...
  • CAM’s elegant, user-friendly software makes you the master of your PC. With simple-to-use, intuitive...
  • The included Aer P radiator fans are designed for liquid-cooling perfection. Featuring a chamfered intake...

The NZXT Kraken Z63 has a comparable one-of-a-kind pump head but takes it to the next level. Kraken’s AIO coolers are among the most visually appealing on the market. Their mirror-topped coolers are extremely eye-catching and have earned positive feedback for their distinct design. Kraken sets the bar even higher with the Z63, which features a 2.6-inch LED panel on top of the pump head.

This screen can display an image of your choice or deliver real-time temperature readings. While there is no RGB to speak of, the customisation that the LED screen can provide is unrivaled. NZXT’s inbuilt CAM software can control the LED screen as well as the rest of the cooler. With CAM, you’ll be able to control almost everything about the cooler, such as changing the fan or pump speed and preserving cooling profiles. It is the most comprehensive software bundle that comes with an AIO cooler.

The Z63 is a beast in terms of performance. While it lacks the raw cooling ability of the Liquid Freezer II, it is right on its tail. The NZXT Kraken Z63 cooled the PC to 6.1°C above ambient at idle and 27.6°C under load in a test performed on an Intel I9 running at 3.6 GHZ. In the stress test, the ARCTIC edged out the Kraken by by 1.2°. When the clock speed was increased to 4.9 GHz, the Kraken actually outperformed the ARCTIC, with a 7.6°C temperature difference over ambient at idle and 55.6°C under load. It is obvious that the NZXT Kraken Z63 is a stunning cooler with exceptional performance. It is substantially more expensive than other solutions, however the value supplied by the LED pump head outweighs the additional cost.

In keeping with other AIO coolers, installation of the Kraken Z63 is likewise incredibly simple and straightforward. The main consideration for installation is the stiffness of the hose fittings, which will not bend or rotate easily. Otherwise, installers of various skill levels will have no trouble installing the Z63.

This cooler is without a doubt one of the best on the market. It is not a low-cost alternative, and it is geared at enthusiasts with money to put in their construct. If you have the funds, the unusual appearance and excellent performance of this cooler are well worth the price. It barely loses out on first place on the list due to its hefty price.

Thermaltake Floe Dual Riing RGB 280 TT Premium Edition

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Thermaltake Floe 280mm, 16.8...
  • LGA1700 Kit available. Search ASIN B09LLYRWDQ, Thermaltake P/N CL-O032-PL00BL-A, to upgrade now
  • Intel LGA 2066/2011-3/2011/1366/1156/1155/1151/1150 AMD TR4/FM2/FM1/AM5/AM4/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2 (CPU...
  • 12 Separately Controlled RGB LEDs for unrivaled Lighting Control

The Thermaltake Floe Dual Riing RGB 280 TT Premium Edition is ideal for those looking for a full RGB experience. It has bright addressable RGB LEDs on its pump head and both fans.

The Thermaltake Floe Riing RGB 280 TT Premium Edition is one of the oldest AIO coolers on this list. However, don’t write it off just yet because it may still give top-of-the-line cooling performance together with amazing visuals that can compete with recent releases. It is also the world’s first 16.8 million color AIO cooler, with two 140mm Riing Plus RGB fans and a water block with RGB colors running around its circle. Riing Plus allows you to manage the fan and pump speeds in addition to adjusting the light colors. There is also a companion app for IOS and Android, so you can control anything with your smartphone.

Another thing this cooler has in common with its 240mm counterpart is its ease of installation. It’s simple to attach and bolt the cooler into place, like with most AIO coolers. However, the shorter length of its hoses may present minor installation challenges, making some orientations inside your tower difficult.In terms of compatibility, the Thermaltake Floe Dual Riing RGB 280 TT Premium Edition is unrivaled. It is compatible with the Intel LGA 2066, 2011-3, 2011, 1366, 1200, 1156, 1155, 1151, and 1150 processors, as well as the AMD TR4, AM4, FM2, FM1, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, and AM2.

If you’re looking for a 280mm cooler with the most RGB options, the Thermaltake Floe Dual Riing RGB 280 TT Premium Edition is a must-have. It provides dependable performance while also providing the full RGB package on its pump head and fans. While the customizing software is disappointing, there is a lot to like about this cooler.

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 280 AIO Water Cooler

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ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 -...
  • QUALITY CONTROL APPROVED: We have increased the quality assurance and quality control. The products have...
  • LGA1700 COMPATIBILITY: The Liquid Freezer II 280 is compatible with Intel's new Alder Lake processors -...
  • COOLER THAN OTHER AIO WATER COOLERS: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II has a more efficient cool plate, pump...

This high quality Arctic II 280mm Liquid Freezer cooler, the 280mm Arctic Liquid Freezer II, is available for under $100 and is the only cooler on our list to be below that price. Arctic chose to develop their pump in-house and use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology for more precise control and improved reliability. The Z63 is a great choice for a similar line of processors, although if you pair it with power-hungry processors, be prepared to see a slight increase in temperature and noise from fan curves.

This AIO cooler features a new powerful pump with PWM support and a copper plated block for increased efficiency. The pump is designed to use less power than most AIOs and remains incredibly quiet anywhere. The cooler also comes with two powerful 140mmP series fans for enhanced performance and an additional 40mm fan adjacent to the pump, which helps keep the surrounding VRM components cool and in peak performance. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II is compatible with almost all AMD and Intel processors, so you can rest assured that it will work with your processor. The Liquid Freezer ii 280 proves two things. Not only is this the best AIO in the game right now, but it also proved us right after all the times we’ve had to look at lower AIOs. ARCTIC might not have shipped to the RGB / ARGB department, but to be frank, we don’t care.

While many AIO coolers include dazzling RGB LEDs, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 foregoes this convention in favor of pure cooling performance and noise reduction. ARCTIC’s performance commitment pays off, as the Liquid Freezer II is the best-performing AIO cooler and ranks first in its class. For some, the lack of RGB is a detriment, especially if they want to color match the rest of their setups. However, this does not make the Liquid Freezer II 280 an unappealing cooler. It’s coated matte black and has metallic detailing on the hoses, giving it a utilitarian look that sets it apart from others on the market.

NZXT Kraken X63 280mm AIO Cooler

NZXT Kraken X62 280mm -...
  • Advanced Lighting Modes: With an infinity mirror Design, add amazing color and lighting to your CPU...
  • Engineered For Performance: Engineered to achieve superior cooling while keeping noise levels to a...
  • Master Your Control: Using CAM, manage the performance with precision and make changes quickly, using the...

The Kraken X63 is an AIO cooler from NZXT’s Kraken X-series and the successor to NZXT Kraken X63, which is a mid-range model. It has a 280mm radiator, two Aer P140 fans, and Asetek’s 7th Generation pump. The Z-series is known for its spectacular appearance, but the X-series also delivers a robust design at a fair price. This cooler has excellent cooling performance. It manages to keep the temperature below 75°C when overclocked with up to 1.4V. When you examine the load-to-noise ratio, the sound of the fans was also relatively low. It is certainly capable of handling the most powerful CPUs available.

The enhanced and larger LED ring, as well as the 360° movable cap in 30° increments, are excellent additions to your PC’s look, creating dazzling visual effects. The CAM integration also provides extensive control over your RGB lights and pump speed. Another plus for this Kraken cooler is its ease of installation. You will be able to install this AIO completely without the use of any tools, and you will even be able to refer to the provided physical handbook. The Kraken X63 prioritizes adaptability, including mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD machines, as well as a rotating pump block. You’ll have no trouble installing this cooler if your tower can support its 280mm radiator.

Keeping with the theme of adaptability, the Kraken X63 is compatible with all of the most common processors. Intel LGA 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, and 2066 processors are all supported, as are AMD AM4, TR4, and STRX4 processors. However, Threadripper brackets are not included with the cooler.

The Kraken X63’s key selling point is its amazing infinity mirror pump head. If you like the design, this is the cooler for you. In addition to the eye-catching design, you’ll get customization help via the supplied CAM software in an easy-to-install package.

NZXT Kraken X63 280mm AIO Cooler is the Best 280mm AIO Cooler for Gaming in 2023

EVGA CLC 280mm All-in-One RGB LED CPU Liquid Cooler

EVGA CLC 280mm All-In-One RGB...
  • Compatible with Intel LGA2066/2011/2011-v3/1200/1150/1151/1155/1156/1366 and AMD AM2/AM3/AM4/FM1/FM2/TR4.
  • 280mm Dual Fan radiator. Radiator size: 312mm x 139mm x 27mm (LxWxH) fan Size: 140 x 140 x 25mm (x2)
  • Rgb LED's, can be synced to other EVGA RGB components

EVGA CLC 280 is a powerful 280mm liquid cooler, which is a solid block cooler. EVGA CLC 280 focuses on increasing efficiency and coolant flow. Besides, it is equipped with a copper base that efficiently transfers heat. Noise levels are quiet, with a low voice level at the top of 20 dBA. The EVGA CLC 280mm comes with a great design that fits perfectly with the needs of regular cooling, providing excellent airflow and other scores. This model is compatible with Intel chipsets and AMD chipsets. The airflow is about 113.5 cfm, which is an excellent score for optimal cooling facilities. The noise level of 29.5 decibels means it is hushed. The speed of the fans depends on the temperature of the CPU. When the CPU is cold the fan will be reduced or turned off completely to reduce the noise. If you are looking for a versatile and robust water cooler, this is the right choice for you. It runs silently, has RGB, precise construction, great performance and sleeve tube

The AIO comes with coated tubes for extra protection and excellent build quality. The two 140mm fans in this AIO spin at a speed of 600-2200 RPM and generate very good airflow and very good static pressure for increased cooling performance. However, they are noisier at higher RPMs, which can be a problem for users who prefer silent versions. These 140mm fans work like exhaust fans on the radiator, meaning they suck cold air into the radiator rather than pushing it. The CPU cooler supports the majority of modern CPU sockets from Intel and AMD which also include AM4 and TR4 sockets. The cooler is fairly easy to install and comes with all the necessary brackets, mounting kit, and screws. All in all, high performance and affordable 280mm AIO that can effectively cool your flagship processor at high TDP and also let you overclock it to a decent extent.

EVGA CLC 280mm All-in-One RGB LED CPU Liquid Cooler is one of the Best 280mm AIO Coolers for Gaming in 2023

DEEP COOL Castle 280EX AIO Liquid CPU Cooler

DEEP Cool Castle 280EX AIO...
  • Anti-Leak Technology inside helps regulate pressure build up to improve operational safety and minimize...
  • Two TF140 S PWM fans are designed to deliver improved airflow and static pressure for liquid cooling...
  • A large copper base with 25% more skived fins provides a larger surface area for effective cooling. TR4...

DeepCool’s latest 280mm offering, the DeepCool Castle 280EX, continues the company’s foray into the AIO cooler industry. The DeepCool Castle 280EX will look amazing in your tower thanks to its on-trend RGB pump head. It also has complex decorations on its fan blades, but no RGB lighting on the fans themselves. The rest of the AIO, like most other coolers, is coated glossy black. It isn’t groundbreaking in terms of design, but it does have a high-quality feel about it.

This cooler works with almost every current socket, including the Intel 2066, 2011-3, 2011, 1151, 1150, 1155, and 1366. On the AMD side, the Castle 280EX will work with the AMD TRX4, TR4, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, and FM1 processors. This cooler is a popular choice because it supports the whole AMD processor line.

The DeepCool Castle 280EX should be easy to set up. You’ll need a screwdriver to secure the pump, but other than that, there shouldn’t be any issues. You will have no trouble installing this cooler, even if you are a novice builder.The DeepCool Castle 280EX has exceptional build quality. Its 140mm fans include a rubber housing for noise reduction, and its thin, aluminum radiator has extra skived fins for better cooling efficiency. In your hand, all of the components feel solid, showing the AIO cooler’s high quality.

The DeepCool Castle 280EX proved to be a worthy fighting companion in terms of performance, yet it fell just short of topping the charts. The Castle 280EX held the PC at 34°C at idle in a test using an Intel I9 at base clock. The temperature of the computer reached 73°C when it was overloaded.

The DeepCool Castle 280EX kept temperatures at a safe 81°C when the I9 was pushed to 5 GHz. The DeepCool trailed the best-in-class ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 by around 2°C in every test. This shows that the DeepCool Castle 280EX is a high-performance cooler capable of competing with the best. The Castle 280EX is as excellent acoustically. It’s somewhat outperformed by the ARCTIC, but it’s one of the quietest 280mm AIO coolers on the market. The rubber fan housing undoubtedly contributes to the low noise levels.

Overall, the DeepCool Castle 280EX is a fantastic cooler for the money. It has some of the best cooling capabilities in its class, and it remains quiet and unobtrusive even while under severe load. The DeepCool Castle 280EX is a wonderful choice if you’re searching for a high-quality AIO cooler at a reasonable price.

Things to consider when buying the Best 280mm AIO Cooler

Of course, you need to think about a few reasons why anyone who needs a good 280mm AIO cooling solution should take it seriously. Let’s talk about the most important below.

Size

You will not find any AIO cooler compatible with any PC. So, you need to pay attention to the size before buying one. Choose a radiator size that fits well inside without compromising the installation. Otherwise, there is a risk of burning the necessary components inside your system.

Mounting

You can usually enjoy vertical or horizontal mounting with AIO coolers. If you need an air inlet in front of the PC case, opt for vertical mounting. Although in this case, the need to limit the top will help you buy a horizontal mounting option.

Aesthetic

There are many models available with AIO coolers that have a great appearance. You can choose a model with beautiful LED lighting that can add an extra decorative touch to your system while keeping it cool.

Quality

Of course, you need to choose something that falls within your budget. However, keep in mind that you will get what you pay for. So when you buy AIO coolers, make sure you are not depriving the quality by choosing relatively inexpensive models with build features and other features.

Good warranty option

It’s always great to get some kind of protection when purchasing PC components. AIO coolers are usually quite expensive, so you need to make sure there is a warranty to cover your device.

So that later, if you have problems with the operation, you can ask for repairs or replacements. Usually, brands offer 1 to 6 year warranty depending on the price and specifications.

280mm vs. 360mm AIO Cooler: Different points?

The surface will be slightly smaller. However, the 280mm will give you a better chance of fan selection. Of course, the 360mm has even better advantages in terms of cooling potential. However, this is only necessary if you use two GPUs. 280mm may seem a bit expensive, but again, the visual statement of these brands is really out of the competition. In short, there is not much difference between the two, but usually, 280mm is preferred in terms of performance and overall quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What budget should you keep in mind?

There are cheaper and more expensive models for AIO coolers. Prices will vary from 60 60 to 200 200, depending on the quality, features, durability, and progress of the offer. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Depending on which brand you like, RGM Lite, and other information, you can think about the buffet in it.

How do I determine if the cooler is suitable for my system?

The ideal way to determine if a cooling system will meet your needs is to look at a number of factors before buying. These are usually PU socket, height, radiator size, etc. Also, you need to decide whether the model you choose to buy supports AMD, Intel, or your preferred processor. By these factors, you will be able to decide on the mounting hardware and other things.

What is the difference between air and water CPU coolers?

If you are looking for a cooler that comes with easy installation and low price tags, you should choose air coolers. However, the quality and performance will not be comparable to AIO liquid coolers. Even with high price tags, liquid coolers are generally good at providing optimal performance as a cooling solution.

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