Introduction

A big thank you to be quiet! for supplying the review sample.

Be quiet! has quite the reputation among PC enthusiasts thanks in part to their continued pursuit of delivering silence-focused PC components. From cases, coolers, power supplies, and fans, they have a diverse range of products that meet the needs of end users wanting a quiet system hence the name. Add in stellar build quality, a solid warranty, and fantastic performance; it is no wonder they continue to find success.


In today's review, I will be putting be quiet! newest all-in-one liquid cooler, the Pure Loop 2 FX 280 mm, to the test. Compared to the previous generation, the new model offers ARGB lighting on the fans and CPU block, along with a few other nifty features. Much like its predecessor, it features a decoupled pump that is placed on the tubing rather than in the CPU block or radiator that the majority of competing options utilize. Therefore its design is somewhat different from the norm, and at least on the surface, it has the specifications and pedigree to be a standout offering, so without further delay, let's take a closer look.

Packaging

The packaging is nearly identical in overall design to the previous generation, with the front of the box showing off the Pure Loop 2 FX in all its ARGB illuminated glory. Of course, it is a bit harder to make out all the visual details considering it's a black all-in-one liquid cooler on a black background. Looking at the left end, you will find a link to the product page and a QR code for easy access to the cooler's technical specifications and manual. Turning to the back of the box gives an in-depth look at the Pure Loop 2 FX's core features which include the Light Wings 140 mm fans, ARGB lighting, refill port for easy maintenance, and the doubly decoupled pump.


Looking at the right side, you will find the technical specifications; this includes the fan speeds, pump speeds, radiator dimensions, and supported CPU sockets. Meanwhile, the top and bottom are the same with be quiet! listing the product name and radiator size on both.

Contents

Upon opening the box, you will find the Pure Loop 2 FX 280 mm AIO encased in a cardboard tray. The radiator has a separate cardboard sleeve for added protection rather than being sealed in a plastic bag. While this won't save the radiator from your local shipper's forklift if they decide to run it over, it should mitigate bent fins that can occur from typical drops or bumps during shipping.


Intel and AMD socket support is robust, with be quiet! listing support for today's mainstream sockets. Only AMD's Threadripper series are left out, which isn't a huge surprise, all things considered.

Common parts supplied for mounting include:

• 8x Radiator fan screws
• 8x Radiator screws
• 4x Intel mounting bracket screws
• 4x Intel spacer nut A
• 4x Intel spacer nut B
• 4x Intel backplate screws
• 4x AMD spacers
• 4x AMD backplate screws
• 4x O-rings
• 4x ARGB / PWM hub mounting screws
• 3x Cable ties
• 2x 140 mm ARGB fans
• 2x Intel mounting brackets
• 2x Intel LGA1700 mounting brackets
• 2x AMD mounting bracket
• 1x Intel backplate
• 1x Pre-filled liquid cooler
• 1x Tube thermal paste
• 1x User's manual
• 1x ARGB / PWM hub
• 1x Bottle of coolant