We all want the finest ways to cool down our computers, and with the advancement of technology, liquid cooling has become the standard. All-in-one coolers, or AIO coolers, come in various sizes, ranging from 120mm radiators to 420mm. Today we will specifically talk about AIO coolers with 280mm radiators.
The typical 240mm AIO is followed by 280mm radiators or 280mm AIO. Both the 240mm and 280mm AIO can house two fans on each side. However, the size difference is that the 240mm can house two 120mm fans while the 280mm can house two 240mm fans. Users are frequently perplexed while deciding between 240mm and 280mm/ 280mm and 360mm AIO due to the near margins in terms of cooling capabilities and size. After reading this article, you should have a good concept of what you want to do. We have collected a list of several 280mm AIO that are our best selections.
For quick glance, here are all our top 280mm AIO Picks, all compared to each other in the table below:
Last update on 2023-12-13
Best 280mm AIO Coolers
Choosing a cooler for your CPU might be difficult at times; sometimes, you’ll need more cooling than aesthetics, while other times, you’ll opt for RGB coolers alongside some acceptable performance. After deciding on the best AIO cooler, you may be baffled by the price since they may be rather pricey at times. As a result, we have developed a list of the Best 280mm AIO Coolers to ensure you make the appropriate judgments based on your options.
We at Tech4Gamers constantly do our utmost to ensure that our users are spending their money wisely. Following intensive research by our reviewers and writers, we have created a list of the Best 280mm AIO Coolers currently available on the market. Furthermore, we have classified our Best 280mm AIO Coolers into their own categories so that customers may select the one that best meets their demands.
Our Picks for Best 280mm AIO CPU Coolers include:
- Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
- GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE X 280 Liquid Cooler
- ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 A-RGB
- EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB
- NZXT Kraken X63 RGB
- EVGA CLC 280mm
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
Best High-Performance 280mm AIO CPU Cooler
Specifications: Type: Dual Fan Liquid Cooler | Radiator Size: 280mm | RGB: Yes | Dimensions: 316 x 144 x 30mm
Pros
Cons
Alphacool is a preeminent brand that has established itself in the industry as a reputable figure. Known for their exceptional custom water-cooling kits, their products have become a staple among enthusiasts for their distinctive design language and phenomenal performance. The Eisbaer series of AIO coolers, in particular, stand out for their modular design and top-of-the-line cooling performance.
The AlphaCool Eisbaer Pro series of coolings consist of products of varying levels of prices, each targeting a different market segment. The AlphaCool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 caters to the high-end price segment of the market, exhibiting a degree of polish with its remarkable design and enthusiast-grade performance.
In stark contrast to other similarly-priced AIO liquid coolers, Alphacool utilizes a copper radiator for cooling. Coming with an FPI count of 15 and an enlarged surface area, the copper radiator ensures effective heat dissipation. Further adding to its cooling features are the 58 cooling fins underneath the cooler.
The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora features a sizable water block that is designed to accommodate larger CPU dies. Despite the massive size of the CPU block, RAM and PCIe clearance are not affected; however, the installation might get a bit challenging. The pump itself operates at a staggering speed of 2600 RPM, delivering excellent performance.
Moving on, Alphacool has equipped the Eisbaer Pro Aurora with two 140mm fans that provide a maximum speed of 2000 RPM. These fans feature an air pressure of 2.20 mm H2O and come with an airflow rate of 154,1 m³/h. The cooler itself manages to remain fairly silent even under load, producing a noise output of 31.5 dBA.
Compatibility, on the other hand, has not been disregarded either, with the AORUS WaterForce X being compatible with both older and newer sockets, including AM5 and LGA 1700. Naturally, Ryzen Threadripper and AMD’s EPYC processors are also compatible.
What do we like about the Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
Coming with two powerful 140mm ARGB fans, a copper radiator, and a larger surface area, the Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 makes for an ideal pick for anyone looking to get the best possible performance out of a cooler.
What do we dislike about the Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
Given its above-average performance, a higher price tag was almost expected; however, that can be a deal-breaker for some people.
Verdict
The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 brings everything you would want out of a high-performance cooler into one complete package. While its performance is more than sufficient for most processors, you can also pair it with workstation GPUs thanks to the larger surface area of the CPU block. All of that, combined with its unmatched thermal performance, makes it the Best High-Performing 280mm AIO CPU Cooler.
GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE X 280 Liquid Cooler
Best RGB 280mm AIO CPU Cooler
Specifications: Type: Dual-Fan AIO Liquid Cooler | Radiator Size: 280mm | RGB: Yes | Dimensions: 312 x 140 x 27mm
Pros
Cons
Gigabyte is a brand that almost requires no introduction when it comes to PC hardware. Having dabbled into the cooling sphere multiple times with fantastic products, Gigabyte intends to raise the bar yet again with its AORUS WaterForce lineup of CPU coolers. The Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 represents their high-end AIO liquid cooler that also comes in at a hefty price tag.
Before anything, let’s first go over the basic design of the AORUS WaterForce X 280. Coming with a predominantly black design, the cooler itself is not particularly innovative with its looks. Gigabyte has used a circular design for the pump, which includes a rotatable top cover. Topping all of that off is the LCD screen on the CPU block, which gives you enough customizability to add a sense of personalization to your build.
A huge chunk of the radiator is dedicated to the fans, which is what you would expect from a 280mm AIO Liquid cooler. The AORUS WaterForce X is packed with two 140mm A-RGB fans, featuring dual ball bearings, 7 blades, and speeds ranging from 800 to 2500 RPM. The fans are designed to guarantee optimal heat transfer, coming with an airflow of 89.18 CFM as well as maximum air pressure of 4.62 mmH2O.
Gigabyte substantiates its claims of ensuring lower noise output, with the fans reaching a maximum output of 44.5 dBA. However, slightly higher noise levels can be expected from the cooler, especially under full load.
Despite many manufacturers transitioning to in-house pumps, Gigabyte has decided to stick with the Asetek pump design. Its design has remained contemporary for the most part, bearing a resemblance to the previous iteration of this cooler.
That said, the CPU block includes the previously mentioned LCD screen right on top of it, which allows you to add custom GIFs, monitor temperatures, and even load it with videos of your choice. Of course, everything ranging from the RGB lighting to the LCD screen can be controlled using Gigabyte’s control center software.
What’s surprising is that Gigabyte includes a separate micro SD card slot on the pump, allowing you to store images and videos for the screen without using the actual software. Not only is that a lot faster than manually loading images or videos using the software, but it also makes for a neat addition for anyone interested in quickly transitioning between presets.
Our tests of the Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 yielded fantastic results, with the cooler providing far better thermal performance against the mid-range DeepCool LT520. We only see it lagging slightly behind the LT520 when set to 40 percent fan speed, further demonstrating its superior performance.
Also, check out our full review on the Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 Liquid Cooler, which covers a lot more about the cooler.
What do we like about the Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce x 280 Liquid Cooler
The Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce x 280 Liquid Cooler straddles the perfect middle ground between a well-constructed cooler and an aesthetic inclusion to your build. It boasts multiple standout features, including a 60 x 60 LCD screen, two 140mm A-RGB fans, and integrated cable management, making it a suitable pick for most processors currently available.
What do we dislike about the Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce x 280 Liquid Cooler
One thing that has remained a prevalent theme in most AORUS products is the higher overall price tag, and the Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 continues to be plagued by that issue, making it completely out of the question for most budget gamers.
Verdict
The Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 gets a lot right with its simple yet effective design. It stands out with its sleek implementation of the RGB elements while also providing you with enough thermal performance, making it the Best RGB 280mm AIO CPU Cooler.
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 A-RGB
Best 280mm AIO Cooler
Specifications: Type: Dual-fan AIO | Power: 12V DC, 0.12A | Radiator Size: 280mm | Lighting: None | Dimensions: 317 mm x 138 mm x 38 mm
Pros
- Impressive Cooling
- Aesthetics
- Low Noise Levels
Cons
- Nothing Significant
The new ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 is a warrior when it comes to cooling capabilities. Unlike its competition, the “NZXT Kraken x63 280mm,” the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 uses ARCTIC’s own pump design, indicating that ARCTIC made a calculated gamble that paid off handsomely.
The new pump has an odd but appealing design that includes a functional 280mm fan inside the pump header to help circulation. The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 looks great, and the innovative pump design, along with the braided graphite and white 280mm AIO long tubing, places the cooler among the best.
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 already has two 140mm fans installed, both of which are linked and controlled by the pump’s PWM connection. It’s cooling capabilities are impressive; even when compared to other 280mm radiators, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 excels by a wide margin. The AIO’s power consumption isn’t too awful, though, with a rating of roughly 1.0W-2.7W (PWM regulated), so it won’t be a big issue.
What do we like about the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280?
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 is designed for cooling, and for roughly 110$, it’s a wonderful deal. When it comes to keeping noise levels down and workloads high, the AIO is one of the best. Due to its futuristic pump design, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 may be a popular favorite when it comes to looks.
What do we dislike about the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280?
There’s nothing major to dislike about the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 A-RGB, the cooler offers good value for money and comes with the right set of specifications.
Verdict
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 is the best choice for users who want to get the most out of their systems; with excellent cooling capabilities and a newer pump design, we choose the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer ll 280 as the Best 280mm AIO Cooler.
If you are into the 240mm version of this, read our ARTIC Liquid 240mm Review.
EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB
Best 280mm AIO Liquid Cooler In 2023
Specifications: Type: Four-fan AIO | Radiator Size: 280mm | Lighting: RGB | Dimensions: 313 x 140 x 27 mm
Pros
- Included Fan Hub
- Low Noise Levels
- Aesthetics + RGB
- 4x 140mm Fans
- Rotatable Pump Head
- Best Cooling
Cons
- Size may be an issue
When using tubes and pumps to cool your computer, the name EK will always come up. EK’s newest AIO cooler, the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB, is now available. With crazy cooling capabilities and featuring an all-black radiator alongside a very new-looking pump header, the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB may be one of the finest for high-end consumers.
The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB pump header has a striking appearance; the all-new acrylic housing has built-in RGB for an in-house party effect. The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB includes not two but four fully addressable RGB fans with high RPMs in addition to the RGB pump header.EK has not disappointed in terms of design or durability. The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB has pre-installed sleeved rubber tubing as well as 360 degrees of range movement, making setup a pleasure.
The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB comes with four fully addressable RGB 280mm fans controlled using the PWM pump, meaning high RPMs, up to 2600, can be achieved when needed using the AI software. The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB has pre-applied thermal paste and an additional tube of Ectotherm thermal paste. It also features a copper base plate of roughly 58x55mm, allowing it to support a broad range of sockets. However, we’re unsure about the AIO’s TDP ratings because the specifications don’t include them.
The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB is a strong competitor to any Deepcool or Corsair 280mm AIO in terms of performance. The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB is recognized as the best 280mm AIO cooler because of the four EK-Vardar S RGB fans’ ability to cool down just about everything.
What do we like about the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB?
The EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB comes with a fan hub in the package to help with wire management. The EK-Hub can handle up to seven RGB fans, all controllable using AI software. The high-speed EK-Vardar S RGB fans are one of EK’s best RGB fans, capable of producing little noise even at maximum speeds.
What do we dislike about the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB?
The width of the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB is problematic for many users with smaller cases due to the four EK-Vardar S fans.
Verdict
With an all-new and powerful pump, the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB is one of the best. Due to its crazy features, the performance achieved on the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB is nearing that of any high-end 360mm AIO cooler, and for such reasons, we regard the EK-AIO Elite 280 D-RGB as the best 280mm AIO cooler.
NZXT Kraken X63 RGB
Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler
Specifications: Type: Dual-fan AIO | Power: 12V DC, 0.3A | Radiator Size: 280mm | Lighting: RGB | Dimensions: 143mm x 315mm x 30mm
Pros
- Excellent Performance
- Best Looks
- Top of the line NZXT Fans
Cons
- Expensive
- No direct Fan Control
The NZXT Kraken X63 RGB is an AIO that commands attention. The new NZXT Kraken X63 RGB is now available in black and white, with a beautiful RGB infinity effect on the pump header and two controllable RGB 280mm fans.
The two 140MM Aer RGB fans on the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB provide excellent performance. Even with larger loads, the voltages remain well below 1.5 volts, and the CPU temperature is kept to 75 degrees. These tests show that the NZXT Kraken X63 is on par with every other 280mm liquid cooler currently available.
As previously said, the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB’s design and aesthetics beg you to stare at them. Along with the addressable RGB fans and, of course, the redesigned pump header, the latter has an all-black or all-white look. The new NZXT pump header can now spin in the direction we desire while also displaying a unique infinity mirror aesthetic with RGB effects.
The NZXT CAM software, like Gigabyte’s RGB Fusion, has been a pain in the brain, but NZXT has made some modifications this time. The all-new CAM program allows us to manipulate all of our RGB effects without yelling at our screens this time.
What do we like about the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB?
The new NZXT Kraken X63 offers excellent performance alongside beautiful aesthetics. The new NZXT Kraken X63 RGB comes in an all-black or all-white 280mm AIO color theme, making it ideal for various setups. The NZXT RGB Aer fans, which are already included, are top-of-the-line, with a sleek design and low noise levels. Finally, it is worth remembering that the CAM program is finally worthy of use.
Also Read: Best White CPU Coolers
What do we dislike about the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB?
The only thing the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB lacks is direct fan control and a better price tag.
Verdict
The Kraken X63 RGB from NZXT is one of the best Looking 280mm AIO coolers on the market. What distinguishes it as one of the best? Its cooling capabilities as well as the elegance of its design. The NZXT Kraken X63 RGB is the best-looking 280mm AIO cooler, thanks to its all-new pump header and RGB aesthetics.
EVGA CLC 280mm
Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler
Specifications
Type: Dual-fan AIO | Radiator Size: 280mm | Lighting: RGB | Dimensions: 312mm x 139mm x 27mm
Pros
- Best Price
- Good Cooling Capability
- New Fan Design
- RGB
Cons
- Can become Noisy
If you’re searching for an AIO cooler with maximum performance and a touch of RGB, we recommend the EVGA CLC 280mm. The EVGA CLC 280 is not to be overshadowed, with a dual-fan radiator and some sleek-looking 280mm fans.
The 280mm radiator of the AIO already has fans mounted. The all-black design is similar to any other AIO cooler on the market, and the EVGA logo on the pump head is completely RGB customizable through the EVGA Flow Control program. The two 140mm fans include an undercut to assist in decreasing fan noise while maintaining low power consumption.
When it comes to performance, the EVGA CLC 280 is on par with any mid or high-end 280mm cooler. Heat is dissipated more quickly due to the pure copper base plate, resulting in lower temperatures even with overclocked CPUs. The EVGA CLC 280 also supports a number of sockets, including the pre-installed LGA115x/20xx bracket.
What do we like about the EVGA CLC 280?
For less than a hundred dollars, the EVGA CLC 280 provides a lot. The chances of purchasing the AIO are numerous, ranging from keeping temperatures low to in-built adjustable RGB. The build quality and pre-installed PWM fans all contribute to the EVGA CLC 280’s value.
What do we dislike about the EVGA CLC 280?
When under stress, the EVGA CLC 280 makes a lot of noise, which is a turn-off for those that demand silent settings.
Verdict
All in all, the EVGA CLC 280 is the best bang for our buck when it comes to wanting better performance and aesthetics under 100$, and that is why we choose the EVGA CLC 280 as the best budget 280mm AIO Liquid cooler.
Competition
MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB
Runner-Up For Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler
Specifications: Type: Dual-fan AIO | Power: 4.08W Pump | Radiator Size: 280mm | Lighting: RGB | Dimensions: 312 x 140 x 27mm
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Best Price
- Low Noise Levels
- New Pump Design
- RGB
Cons
- Performance with OC not on par
- Tubes may become an issue
When it comes to AIO coolers with complete RGB support, the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R aRGB is unbeatable. In terms of look and functionality, the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB varies significantly from its competition, the “Corsair H115i 280mm AIO.” The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB boasts an innovative pump design that places the pump within the radiator rather than outside. The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB, also has two ARGB 280mm AIO fans to improve the user experience further.
In terms of the new unique pump design, MSI has relocated its pump within the radiator in the MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB. The goal is to minimize pump noise while also extending the pump’s life. Isn’t that a bold move? The not-so-pump header now includes RGB and a 270-degree rotating blockhead, ensuring that aesthetics are not impacted when installed in the other direction.
The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB has excellent performance capabilities. The new high thermal dissipation radiator is one of the best 280mm radiators, allowing for optimum dissipation. The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB’s noise levels are incredibly low due to the innovative pump integration and silent fans provided.
What do we like about the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB?
If you want better performance and RGB aesthetics for a decent price, the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB is the best option out there. The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB is best for users who want easy installation alongside a sturdy and durable product.
What do we dislike about the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB?
Users who wish to overclock their PCs should avoid the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB since performance with overclocked CPUs is questioned. The tubes on the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB are also fairly robust and short, making it difficult to put the radiator on the front of your case.
Verdict
The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB is the best option for regular users who want performance alongside looks. The 280mm MSI MAG CORELIQUID 280R, aRGB AIO comes with a decent price tag and offers a lot of functionality, making it our choice as the runner-up for the best RGB 280mm AIO cooler.
240mm Vs 280mm AIO
AIO coolers exist in a variety of sizes, as previously stated. You’ll have to choose between the 240mm AIO and the 280mm AIO when it comes to dual-fan radiators. Both radiators will accommodate two fans in terms of cooling, but the size difference alters the game. The 240mm radiator can accommodate two 120mm fans, but the 280mm AIO can accommodate up to two 140mm fans.
The math isn’t difficult, and you could think that an extra 20mm on a fan won’t make a difference. However, to be honest, it makes a significant difference. The 280mm AIO will consistently outperform any high-end 240mm AIO due to its bigger fan size. More giant fans travel slower, resulting in less noise and more excellent cooling since they cover a larger surface area.
But all of this glitz and glam comes at a cost; the 280mm is likely to be more expensive than any 240mm AIO cooler. Manu users are also limited by the size disparity since they demand larger cases and more room.
Read our in-depth article on 240mm vs 280mm AIO.
280mm Vs 360mm AIO
In terms of 280mm AIO comparisons, some may argue that comparing a 280mm AIO to a 360mm AIO is foolish, yet we must do so for the sake of our new users. The amount of fans in a 280mm and 360mm AIO differs the most visually; the 280mm AIO can house two 140mm fans, while the 360mm AIO can house three 120mm fans.
When deciding between a 280mm and a 360mm AIO, the choice is clear. Isn’t it true that the bigger, the cooler, the better the cooling? Because it covers a wider surface area and creates more airflow, the 360mm AIO will always provide better cooling. It will also produce less noise because more fans will be spinning at a low rpm.
The 360mm radiator isn’t ideal; 240mm or 280mm radiators will suffice to cool any high-end PC. The 360mm radiator also needs a massive chassis to house it. 360mm radiators might be a pain in the wallet when it comes to pricing.
Read our full comparison of 280mm Vs 360mm AIO.
Cases That Support 280mm AIO
Can my case fit a 280mm AIO? To make sure your case fits a 280mm radiator, you will have to jump into the documents that arrived with your case. If you’ve burned them, don’t worry; you can always visit the manufacturer’s site.
It would be best to always verify compatibility choices before making a buying decision. Your case will always specify the type of cooler it can accommodate. Your case specifications will always mention the size of the radiator it supports on the front, rear, and top. You should also check RAM clearance; a smaller case may house a 280mm radiator on top, but it sometimes affects RAM clearance.
Choosing the best case for a 280mm radiator is mostly up to users and their preferences as there are several cases available. To house a 280mm radiator, you may select from various options, depending on your budget; you can even get attention-getting cases with 4-way tempered glass and RGB lighting.
280mm AIO Vs Air Cooler
Air coolers have served us well for a long time and continue to do so in most cases. However, there is always someone better. Because of the improvement in Liquid Cooling technology, AIO coolers have surpassed air coolers in terms of cooling capabilities.
In comparison to AIO coolers, Air Coolers are a simple but effective way to cool down your CPU. The Air Coolers, which use copper pipes and an integrated heat sink connected to fans, are a significantly less expensive choice for cooling down your CPU.
Why should you pick an AIO over an air cooler? The answer is simple: it’s better and cooler. AIO coolers combine aesthetics and cooling in a single container, which is particularly useful for those who want to overclock their computers. AIO coolers have lower noise levels than air coolers, allowing you to work in peace even while your PC is running under full load. Air coolers are renowned for being large and heavy; however, an AIO cooler merely adds the pump header to your Motherboard.
How We Chose The Best 280mm AIO
When it comes to choosing the best AIO for our users, we consider a lot of factors.
Starting from the size of the radiator, we chose the 280mm AIO due to its abilities. The 280mm AIO is almost on par with any 360mm radiator out on the market. We always consider our users to have the best for a better price tag. The 280mm AIO in this case, offers the best cooling for the best prices.
For us to choose the best AIO for its category, it has to go through a number of assessments before a decision is made.
Benchmarking
To choose the best AIO, we make sure the cooling capabilities offered are enough, even with overclocking. We hook up the CPU to our gaming builds, and then the temps are monitored closely and compared to other coolers in the ring. Performance is looked out on a variety of settings, from light work to heavy rendering the AIO goes through a lot, and after careful consideration, we are able to regard the said cooler as best among the list.
Noise levels also do affect our results at times; a cooler with better cooling but higher noise levels are also not great. To list a cooler as the “Best AIO,” it should be able to pass all the obstacles.
Comparisons
We also always consider the cooler specifications, from power ratings all the way to socket compatibility. For an AIO to be called the best, it should be able to have better TDP ratings alongside support for a range of sockets when compared to its rivals.
Categorizing Coolers
After going through all the good and bad, we then categorize the coolers into their respective category. An AIO that passes all the tests with exceptional performance is regarded as the best. For a cooler having better RGB capabilities is put into the best RGB cooler category, and so on.
AIO Liquid Cooler Selection/Shopping Tips 2023
When it comes to selecting an AIO for your CPU, we always ask our users to consider all factors before making a decision. Choosing an AIO cooler can be troublesome at times due to the range of options to choose from, but don’t worry; we’ve compiled a bunch of shopping tips to make your purchase easy.
AIO Size
When it comes to selecting the right size AIO, keep your needs in mind at all times. If you are a casual user performing casual tasks, a 120mm AIO would suffice. However, if you perform a lot of overclocking in addition to rendering, you should think about getting a 360mm radiator. Always make a buy based on your requirements.
280mm AIO Compatibility
Because each CPU has a different socket size, you must conduct some research to ensure that your AIO will suit your CPU. Your socket requirements can always be found on the CPU box or on the manufacturer’s website. To verify the specifications of your AIO, go to the manufacturer’s website and see if it supports your CPU socket.
Will my Case fit my new 280mm AIO?
Users with compact tower cases may choose for 280mm radiators that will not fit inside. To ensure that your case can accommodate your new radiator, read the product specifications on your Case to see what size radiators it can support. You don’t want to wind up with a radiator that won’t fit in your case.
Noise Levels
Moving parts are believed to produce a lot of noise in products, and trust me, there are a lot of moving parts in an AIO. You may always use the internet to find out which AIO produces the least noise, or, as we recommend, go with the be quiet! Silent Loop 2 as it is our best silent 280mm AIO cooler.
Aesthetics
Overall, you may always select an AIO to improve the appearance of your system. There are a variety of variations available, including RGB AIOs, AIOs with LCDs on their pump headers, and circular pump headers instead of the typical cubes. Depending on your personal preferences, you may always select from various possibilities.
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Based on our comprehensive study and analysis, we at Tech4Gamers have always sought what is best for ourselves and our consumers. As a consequence, we’re creating a website with the help of skilled writers and reviewers where customers can put their faith in us when it comes to developing their ideal gaming PCs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The radiator on a 280mm AIO support two 140mm fans on one face.
There are no specific cases we can mention as the list goes on, but before making a case purchase, make sure to read the case specification on what size AIO radiator they can support.
Depending on your use, if you are a casual user or gamer, then any 280mm AIO will be enough for you, else if you do heavy rendering alongside some overclocked settings you might need to give a thought to 360mm AIOs
The 360mm AIO can support upto three 120mm fans instead of two 140mm on the 280mm AIO. Meaning, the 360mm radiator will make up for more airflow and thus better cooling compared to the 280mm radiator.
To install any 280mm AIO, follow the step mentioned in the product book, or you can also try watching installation videos available on the internet. If you still aren’t able to, then consult someone who knows their way around AIOs.
280mm radiators from different brands always vary in dimensiosn but to give an example a 280mm radiator will be somewhere around 140 x 312 x 30 mm.
280mm radiators are among a variety of radiators that support upto two 140mm fans on one side.
240mm radiators only support upto two 120mm fans on either side while 280mm radiator support upto two 140mm fans on either side.
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[CPU Coolers & RAM Expert]
Hayyan Serwer is a tech enthusiast, with a love for PC building and article writing. Hayyan specializes in writing about CPU coolers and RAM kits. Hayyan has been familiar with the tech industry for over half a decade now, and has now stepped into providing quality reviews for the latest and greatest tech.