While the Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora 360 can be considered a bit expensive, it is still in the same price range as many other 360 mm offerings from popular manufacturers. It is also worth noting that rather than getting a mixed metal loop for your money, you are getting an all copper loop and the option to expand. Alphacool offers their Eiswolf line of GPU blocks, under others, for easy expansion, which coincidentally will soon be updated to match the current Eisbaer lineup, so if you want an easy way to configure a full loop, this isn't a bad option by any means. It also doesn't hurt that overall performance as is remains quite solid, and while it could be better with different fans, the included ones offer the ever-polarizing option of RGB lighting. That having been said, as configured, the Eisbaer Aurora 360 offers performance that is a bit better than most 360 mm coolers and only falls behind the Enermax LIQMAX III ARGB 360 and the Swiftech H360 X3 AIO. Sadly, noise levels could do with some improvements as at maximum RPM as the fans are fairly loud, reaching 48 dBA. Keep in mind my sweet spot target is sub-45 dBA when a cooler is pushed to the limit as noise levels below that are not as noticeable and typically won't annoy the end user.

Build quality feels good as well, with the fins being straight and no real problem areas from a functionality standpoint. Clearance around the socket, system memory, and graphics card was perfect as well. Only the mounting hardware feels a bit underwhelming; I would prefer the use of standoffs that hold the backplate rather than the simple adhesive, as it would allow the block to slide down over said standoffs, making for an easier time in securing the pump block. In general, that style of mount is easier to work with while still providing adequate socket support. The default hardware by Alphacool, on the other hand, requires a bit of assembly, and the lining up of the screws with the backplate holes can be a bit fiddly, especially in tight spaces. As for the warranty, Alphacool offers two years, which feels a bit lacking as many closed-loop coolers offer three and in some cases five years. Granted, I understand that giving users the option to expand potentially creates more issues, but I would still feel a bit more comfortable with at least a three-year warranty here.

Other than that, I will say that the inclusion of RGB lighting was a nice touch for a large number of potential users. However, the lighting on the pump could be a bit better. It is only really noticeable through the window on the pump block. The fans, on the other hand, look quite nice, but will push less air than traditional fans, which has the design trade performance for a bit of bling. While there is nothing wrong with that considering its solid performance, it is still worth noting.

Overall, the Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora 360 is a solid offering that feels like a jack of all trades with cooling and noise being about average. The main reason to buy this liquid cooler over the competition is that it features an all-copper loop and remains easily serviceable and expandable—If either is important to you or even a requirement, the Eisbaer Aurora 360 is an easy product to recommend. If you are looking for pure performance per dollar, better options are available.