Boy, that Bykski radiator review changed a few things! It is true that to get the best value with the Bykski, you need to purchase it from Bykski in China directly, so there remain logistical reasons to get other radiators even before considering other factors, such as brand reputation, customer support, aesthetics, and even features like additional ports, lighting, or, perhaps, a physical form factor that makes it easy to install.

That last bit is really where the Alphacool NexXxos ST25 shines, especially since XSPC seems to be struggling to put out much lately, including the directly competing TX360 that is another ultra-low-profile radiator. At all of 25.5 mm thick, the NexXxos ST25 will be a breeze to install in any case that accepts an AIO cooler, and it will outperform the aluminium radiator in those handily. Pricing is not too bad either considering this is a niche offering and Alphacool is still selling the ST30 that should fare slightly better for those who can fit a 30 mm radiator.

The new v.2 radiator designs are also more relevant to thicker radiators with multiple ports, but we do see the new ID with the more squared-off end-tank design here. Ultimately, physics can't be beat as the core is just too thin to dissipate heat as effectively as thicker radiators. If this were priced better, it would be far easier to recommend, too. But for those who want or actually need a sub-30 mm thick radiator, there are very few options left in 2021, and the Alphacool NexXxos ST25 is one you should strongly consider.