Traditional heatsink and fan CPU coolers are fantastic for keeping your desktop processors operating within an optimal temperature range. Still, if you want to do some overclocking and stress the CPU, you'll need to invest in more complicated water cooling. Luckily, there are some fantastic all-in-one (AIO) kits from reputable brands that are simply plug-and-play. The NZXT Kraken M22 gets the job done, but so do the other options on this list. Take a look!
Stunning visuals
The Kraken Z63 is NZXT's latest take on all-in-one coolers and is the smaller sibling to the Z73 with but a 240mm radiator. Still, it's incredibly powerful and can keep even enthusiast CPUs cool under load, but the highlight feature is the LCD display, which can show temperatures, animated images, and more.
Setting a high bar
Corsair's H100i Elite LCD delivers exciting new features to one of the best-selling AIO liquid coolers. The LCD screen acts as a dashboard, and you can use the built-in lighting effects or use your own GIFs. The ML Elite fans offer outstanding cooling performance, and you get highly customizable RGB lighting. With three sizes available, you'll be able to find the right cooler for your rig.
Smart cooling
The WATER 3.0 from Thermaltake features the company's latest innovative Riing fans with a self-contained controller. The RGB lighting is integrated into the actual casing of each fan, as opposed to mere LED bulbs scattered around the surface, which makes for a continuous beam of light that shines throughout the case. With up to 360mm of the radiator surface, a high-quality pump, and an efficient copper base for optimal heat transfer from the CPU, the WATER 3.0 is designed to keep even the more power-hungry processors well within safe operating temperature ranges, especially when under load and overclocked.
Serious performance
Cooler Master not only created an AIO that looks sleek and ready for an exquisite build but also included some serious headroom. You'll have no problem overclocking your CPU with the 360mm radiator setup, and there are more RGB lights than you'll know what to do with. The lighting on the ML360R can be configured through the MasterPlus+ software suite.
Silent pumps
DEEPCOOL produces some killer hardware, and the Castle 240 RGB is a great example, featuring a 240mm radiator, efficient fans, and a silent but powerful pump. You'll be able to push your system to the limits with this setup. This cooler also supports external management software through the use of a cable, which can be hooked up to your motherboard. It's perfect if you already make use of your own RGB lighting.
How do you choose an AIO?
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Deciding what AIO to choose can prove a little daunting since most of them appear to be the same. If you need a small 120mm radiator AIO for your CPU and already have adequate case airflow, the NZXT Kraken M22 will be more than capable of handling even some moderate overclocking. NZXT offers different Kraken models, depending on your requirements.
When you have a powerful, multi-core processor that's kicking out some serious heat, you'll need to step it up with another cooling solution. Should the different Kraken models not be what you're looking for, Corsair's H100i Elite LCD is an excellent secondary pick. It has incredible performance, and customizable lighting, and is available in three different sizes.
