The AQIRYS HYDRA 360 is a solid, mid-range all-in-one liquid cooler. While it doesn't excel in any one category, it performs well overall considering its features and pricing. On AMD systems, it offers middle-of-the-pack performance, comparable to other 360 mm solutions on the market. In both maximum RPM and at our noise-normalized 45 dBA testing, it manages to keep pace.

On Intel systems, performance is a bit better. While the unit falls behind other coolers at lower TDPs, its performance improves as CPU power usage increases. At 150 watts, the cooler is at the back of the pack on Intel, but once the power is cranked up to 250 watts, it jumps to the top three in the noise-normalized results.

Speaking of noise levels, the unit could be further optimized by using a wider RPM range on the fans, which would help quiet things down at lower PWM settings. Out of the box, the cooler is loud at higher PWM settings, but considering its performance in the noise-normalized tests, this isn't a significant issue. Most users should be able to configure a PWM fan profile that provides exceptional cooling without excessive noise.

With an MSRP of $127, the AQIRYS HYDRA 360 is attractively priced for an AIO cooler featuring a pump-mounted display. While the display cannot be customized, it provides useful information such as pump and fan RPM, along with coolant temperature. There are more attractive options in terms of pure value, but none of them include a built-in display. If this is a feature you desire, the HYDRA 360 could be a great choice. Additionally, no extra software is needed to utilize the HYDRA 360 to its fullest, which is a nice touch.

In terms of build quality, there are no significant dealbreakers, although there is room for improvement in minor details. The cooler arrived in excellent condition, and the fit and finish were crisp and clean. However, the mounting hardware is a drawback—not in terms of quality, but in complexity. The numerous parts and pieces could be simplified with a better design, and the lack of a decent manual in the box doesn't help. The online manual is cluttered and could benefit from a revision. Additionally, while the daisy-chainable fans are a nice touch, the excess wiring results in a tangle of cables that need to be routed and tucked away, somewhat defeating the purpose of the feature.

Overall, the performance of the AQIRYS HYDRA 360 is good, especially in noise-normalized tests. The included display is useful without adding significant cost, making it a great option, even if it isn't the best all-around cooler. However, the AIO market is highly competitive, and the two-year warranty leaves it at a considerable disadvantage compared to the competition, not to mention the lack of availability in some regions. If AQIRYS can expand their regional operations and improve warranty coverage, it would be easier to recommend the HYDRA 360. For now, while a good cooler, it doesn't significantly distinguish itself from the numerous other options available.