Performance Summary

With CPU waterblocks, both thermal performance and liquid-flow restriction are important metrics. Unlike radiators where component liquid-flow restriction is not as big a factor in the loop's overall flow rate, CPU block choice will impact average flow rate a lot and can thus not be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a CPU block thus, a normalized percentage-based data set was created, with 70% weighting given to thermal performance and 30% weighting given to liquid-flow restriction. The data set created was thus plotted with the subject of this review at 100%.


Let's clarify here that the metric for a quantitative performance summary is based on my own thoughts, and there is no universally accepted standard here. As it stands, the relatively higher flow rate restriction of the Eisblock XPX overcomes the benefits of its relatively higher thermal performance in these charts to where many other CPU blocks end up being better, but this is before cost comes into the picture, so keep scrolling.

Performance per Dollar

Prices are taken from Performance PCs in the USA when available, with all numbers reported in USD. For products not available there, the most obvious retail source is chosen, such as a manufacturer's web shop. For products no longer available, the last available reasonable price point is considered.


We must note right away that aesthetics and build quality do not necessarily translate directly here, especially with intricate metal tops, RGB lighting, and integrated displays that add to the cost but are not quantifiable as a performance metric. Regardless, the Eisblock XPX makes a better showing here, offering more value than others even though it fared relatively worse above. Part of this is because Alphacool offers the accessories we saw before as optional purchases instead, but without foregoing support for most CPU sockets without the need of additional adapter kits.